TRENTON, GA — For many, appearing on the big screen remains a distant dream. But for Dade County resident Neva Howell, that dream soared into reality this month with the nationwide release of the newest Superman film.
The latest installment of the iconic superhero franchise premiered on July 11, drawing crowds to theaters across the country. Among its cast of Hollywood heavyweights is Howell, who portrays Martha “Ma” Kent — Superman’s adoptive mother and one of the franchise’s most beloved figures.
“It was surreal,” Howell said of stepping into the role. “Things slowed down, and there was a moment that I can’t even describe.”
The news of her casting came directly from director James Gunn, a moment Howell says she’ll never forget.
“I fell into his arms in disbelief,” she recalled.
A Tennessee Valley native, Howell has called Trenton home for the past three years. Though she has decades of acting experience, she says the responsibility of playing such a fan-adored character was not lost on her.
“The fans are insane about her. They love her,” she said. “I felt a real responsibility to, as best I could, create a Ma Kent that they could relate to.”
Howell’s journey to this milestone moment was paved with years of dedication. With over 30 years in the business, she has appeared in indie films and popular television series, including Ghosts of the Ozarks, The Originals, The Resident, and Greedy People. She even made a memorable appearance in Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide.
Her passion for performance goes back to childhood, when she eagerly stepped in front of the family video camera—often nudging her sister aside for the spotlight.
Despite the ups and downs of life in the entertainment industry, Howell says the emotional reactions to her portrayal of Ma Kent have made it all worth it.
“I’ve had lots of people tell me that seeing me as Ma kind of brought their mother or their grandmother back for a short time,” she said. “I can’t tell you what that feels like.”
To those hoping to follow in her footsteps, Howell has simple but sincere advice: don’t wait.
“Do the tape. Do it on camera,” she urged. “You don’t have to be in a class to do that. Develop the skill now and you’ll be ready when the opportunity comes.”
Fans will have the chance to meet Howell in person this Saturday at the Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater in Trenton. She’ll be greeting guests and signing autographs from 7:45 to 8:45 p.m. before a special outdoor screening of the new Superman film.