The title role of the CBS pilot Supergirl will be played by Glee’s Melissa Benoist. There has been considerable speculation about which young actress would fill this popular character’s shoes. Among the top contenders were The Vampire Diary’s Claire Holt, and Elizabeth Lail of Once Upon a Time.

The hourlong show centers on Superman’s gifted cousin, Kara Zor-El (Supergirl), who journeys to Earth after escaping the destruction of Krypton and is taken in by a foster family, the Danvers. Although the Danvers teach her to be careful with her extraordinary abilities and she keeps them hidden for a number of years, when disaster strikes, Kara is suddenly compelled to use her powers in public. The 24-year-old is finally ready to put her abilities to good use and fulfill her destiny as a superhero.

The pilot was written by Ali Adler (The New Normal) and Greg Berlanti, best known for The Flash TV series and its upcoming feature film adaptation. Adler and Berlanti will also serve as executive producers, along with Sarah Schechter (The Mysteries of Laura).

In addition to her role as Marley Rose on Glee, Benoist has been busy with big screen projects, notably the Oscar-nominated Whiplash. The actress has at least four films slated for release in 2015, including the dramedy Danny Collins, in which she co-stars with Al Pacino.

Supergirl is expected to air on CBS by the end of the year.