5 DC Heroes Who Need Their Own Animated Series Right Now

by

If you’re a fan of DC comics and were born after the Infinite Crisis significantly altered the comic book world, it’s likely that you grew up enjoying one of DC’s iconic animated series. Ranging from groundbreaking shows like Batman: The Animated Series to those that ended prematurely such as Green Lantern: The Animated Series, DC has consistently excelled in producing top-notch cartoons featuring their revered superheroes. With James Gunn revealing numerous new shows for his DC Universe, it only fuels my curiosity as to which DC characters could potentially star in their own animated series.

As a passionate film enthusiast, let’s clarify the criteria before diving into which DC characters could shine as lead roles in an animated series. Characters who have already graced our screens in cartoons will be out of contention here. Furthermore, we’re focusing on solo heroes, not teams or groups. Though I might bend reality for a Bat Family television show someday, today isn’t that day! With these guidelines in mind, let me share the five DC superheroes I believe deserve their own animated series the most.

1) Blue Beetle

Jamie Reyes, in particular, shares a strong affection for Ted Kord. However, Blue Beetle’s character could effectively fill the role that Marvel consistently tries to confine Spider-Man to – that of an ideal teen superhero. He presents an excellent opportunity to delve into teenage struggles as Jamie navigates life with the Scarab and adapting to its powers. Moreover, his actual abilities are tailored for animation. Artistically, Blue Beetle’s suit’s ability to transform into various weapons could provide ample inspiration for artists. I envision it in a style reminiscent of “Generator Rex,” which exudes awesomeness. Furthermore, I can easily visualize Blue Beetle standing alongside the likes of Batman Beyond and Static Shock as animated teen heroes that have left an indelible impact on generations.

2) Martian Manhunter

Blue Beetle is great for a teen-oriented cartoon, while Martian Manhunter could shine in a more mature storyline. Though Martian Manhunter has played a supporting role in other DC animated shows and comics, he’s yet to be the main star. He’s often portrayed as an advisor or protector, but rarely as the central character. However, I believe he has all it takes to be an exceptional lead. With detective skills on par with Superman, his own shapeshifting and telekinesis abilities, Martian Manhunter can adapt to any scenario. Whether set in a noir style or a typical Saturday morning cartoon, Martian Manhunter could carry the story well. I feel that DC is missing out on his immense potential as a main character, and it’s about time he got his chance to shine.

3) The Captain/Shazam

Speaking about Saturday morning cartoons, it’s clear that Captain Thunder, aka Billy Batson, would be an outstanding pick. The Shazamily seems tailor-made for a television series, offering a blend of humor and action. With a child in an adult’s body, there’s endless potential for comedy. Additionally, his foes are perfectly balanced between menacing and eccentric, providing both suspense and cartoonish absurdity. Moreover, Billy Batson offers themes that resonate universally – the struggles of growing up, superhero tropes, and the powerful message of family and belonging after loneliness. It’s hard to believe we don’t have a Billy Batson cartoon yet; it’s high time we rectify that!

4) Batgirl, Cassandra Cain

As a die-hard fan of Cass, it’s hard not to be biased, but I truly believe she should lead her own animated series. The visual expressiveness required for her character would make the animation pop, and I can only imagine how stunning it would look. With minimal dialogue, much of Cass’s emotional depth would need to be conveyed through movement in a cartoon, something she excels at given her fluid fighting style and penchant for shadows, all while dressed in her signature black, faceless costume. The potential for captivating, stylized animation is immense. Moreover, exploring Cass’s struggle to adapt to a normal life under the guidance of Barbara Gordon, who serves as both a mentor and surrogate mother figure, is a story I’d give anything to witness unfold on screen.

5) Wonder Woman

It’s truly surprising that we haven’t seen an animated series for Wonder Woman yet, given that her fellow DC Trinity members have had their own shows. While it’s great that they’ve had their time in the limelight, Wonder Woman is long overdue for her own show. To be fair, she did star in a live-action show back in 1976, but times have changed and so has the character. Wonder Woman embodies the quintessential superheroine, and it’s high time she takes center stage more than any other DC hero. Themes like sisterhood, peace, and boundless compassion remain timeless, and Wonder Woman exemplifies these ideals perfectly. There are numerous creative avenues to explore in adapting her character, such as portraying Diana as an ambassador balancing her secret identity with her superhero responsibilities, or having her fight for global peace while always embodying Wonder Woman. Frankly, I believe we should have a Wonder Woman cartoon, and I won’t accept anything less!

Read More

2025-06-02 16:11