Over the past ten years, television shows based on comic books have gained immense popularity, propelled by blockbusters such as “The Walking Dead” and “The Boys”. However, superhero capes and zombie armies often overshadow other notable series that originated from comic books. These shows have been significant fixtures of our TV memories even before comic books became trendy again. Some of these series stayed true to their original sources, while others utilized them as a starting point to weave stories that were distinctly fresh and innovative.
Ready to explore? Here’s an assortment of TV series that might be unfamiliar or long-forgotten, as they stem from the world of comic books. Enjoy the discovery!
7) Wynonna Earp
SYFY’s popular series, “Wynonna Earp,” seamlessly combined the atmospheric allure of the Wild West with witty humor and a devoted audience. This show focused on Wynonna, the great-great-granddaughter of the famous sheriff Wyatt Earp, who fought against supernatural enemies, including demons, armed with her ancestor’s enchanted six-shooter, nicknamed Peacemaker.
Unbeknownst to many viewers, “Wynonna Earp” originally emerged as a comic book published by Image Comics in the 90s, crafted by Beau Smith. Later, it transitioned to IDW Publishing. The early comics emphasized monster-hunting action more than the television series does, however, the TV adaptation infused the narrative with emotional depth and prioritized character-focused storytelling. Notably, the audience resonated strongly with the progressive LGBTQ+ relationship between Waverly Earp and Nicole Haught, which became a highly acclaimed aspect of the show’s plotline.
As a die-hard fan myself, I must say that, despite the series concluding after four thrilling seasons, the dedicated fanbase – affectionately known as “Earpers” – has undeniably solidified its place among the most cherished supernatural dramas of the last ten years.
6) Sabrina the Teenage Witch
Many ’90s children grew up watching “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” as a must-see TV show. Led by Melissa Joan Hart, this ABC (and later The WB) sitcom chronicled Sabrina Spellman’s life as she navigated her magical lineage alongside typical teen experiences. With Salem, the chatty cat, eccentric aunts Zelda and Hilda, and numerous magical escapades, the series left an indelible mark on television screens around the globe.
Sabrina wasn’t solely born for television; instead, she made her first appearance in Archie Comics way back in 1962, long before Millennials existed. Her debut took place in the publication Archie’s Madhouse, and due to her popularity, she eventually got her own comic series. This series has continued in print ever since, maintaining its appeal by adapting numerous times to cater to new audiences. Lately, Sabrina underwent a much more sinister adaptation with Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, which was influenced by a horror-themed comic of the same name.
Although many viewers recall Sabrina mainly from the humorous TV series, her connection to comics is profound, positioning her as one of Archie Comics’ most triumphant creations in the export market.
5) Lucifer
Tom Ellis achieved iconic status by portraying the Devil in the popular TV series Lucifer, broadcast on Fox (later streaming on Netflix). The show revolved around the Lord of Hell, who decided to leave his throne and move to Los Angeles where he established a nightclub and started helping the LAPD solve murders. This show was a blend of crime drama, supernatural suspense, and romantic humor, depicting Lucifer abandoning his position in Hell to enjoy life in LA.
In a captivating portrayal, he manages a nightclub, collaborates with the LAPD to solve murders, pushes the boundaries of destiny while maintaining an effortlessly chic demeanor – this is none other than the intriguing character Lucifer. The show gained immense popularity due to Ellis’s charismatic performance and the compelling camaraderie between its principal characters. For some readers, this entry might not be entirely new, but let me clarify that Lucifer originated from a solo series penned by Mike Carey under DC’s Vertigo imprint. This comic book series extends his story beyond Hell, exploring profound cosmic concepts such as creation, free will, redemption, and metaphysical uprisings.
As the TV series unfolds, it skillfully blends the rhythm of criminal investigations with the intricate interplay between Lucifer and Chloe, resulting in an adaptation that is not only true to the original but also offers a refreshing twist. The narrative maintains the rich mythology established by Carey without becoming too constrained by rigid lore.
4) Happy!
If you found the SYFY series “Happy!” to be a surreal and chaotic show, you’d be right on point. Starring Christopher Meloni as Nick Sax, a once-respected cop turned hitman with a morally questionable past, the show is based on a graphic novel by Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson. In this offbeat series, Sax forms an unlikely alliance with Happy, a blue, winged unicorn with a sense of humor, voiced by Patton Oswalt. This eccentric character helps Sax in his mission to save a kidnapped child, and as you might imagine, the show delivers on its promise of being peculiar and action-packed.
The comic, titled “Happy!”, was a four-issue series released by Image Comics in 2012, merging noir crime narratives with surreal fantasy elements. The television adaptation delved deeper into this universe, emphasizing the violent, peculiar, and frequently dark humor that often leaves viewers startled. Despite airing for just two seasons, “Happy!” garnered a devoted fanbase due to its wild energy and Meloni’s passionate portrayal.
It remains one of the most unique comic book adaptations to ever make it to television.
3) Locke & Key
The Netflix series, Locke & Key, introduced viewers to the Locke family who stumble upon enchanted keys that grant extraordinary powers, yet also draw in dangerous adversaries aiming to seize them. This series is adapted from the acclaimed comic book written by Joe Hill and illustrated by Gabriel Rodríguez, published by IDW Publishing since 2008. While the comics have a more ominous and horror-oriented vibe, the Netflix version emphasizes young adult fantasy. However, both share the captivating idea of keys that manipulate reality and the suspenseful perils associated with them, winning over fans alike.
It was quite triumphant for comic book enthusiasts who have been tracking the story of Locke & Key for more than ten years when, after a long period of difficulty in production and unsuccessful initial attempts, the series finally came to life on screen.
2) Dark Matter
SYFY’s Dark Matter was an engaging space opera where six individuals found themselves on a spaceship, completely unaware of their identities or the circumstances that led to their predicament. As they delved into their pasts, they became embroiled in cosmic struggles, secretive plots, and pondered issues regarding identity and ethics. This series was a clever amalgamation of action, enigma, and character development that made it an underrated treasure for sci-fi enthusiasts.
Initially, “Dark Matter” started off as a miniseries in comic book form, penned by Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie – writers famously recognized for their work on “Stargate SG-1” and “Stargate Atlantis”. In 2012, Dark Horse Comics published this comic as a precursor to its adaptation into a TV series. The show that followed broadened the initial concept, running for three seasons until it mysteriously ended on a cliffhanger that has left fans hanging ever since.
Despite the fact that it didn’t run for as long as many anticipated, the TV series Dark Matter demonstrated that not every comic book adaptation can only rely on magic, costumes, or supernatural abilities.
1) The End of the F***ing World
I must admit, among the outstanding dark comedies of the last decade, “The End of the Fing World” on Channel 4 UK and Netflix stands out as one of my favorites. The captivating series narrates the story of James, a young man who fancies himself a psychopath, and Alyssa, a rebellious classmate, who together embark on an unpredictable road trip that combines elements of violence and romance.
The television series was adapted from Charles Forsman’s graphic novel with the same title, initially published by Fantagraphics, an independent publishing company. The comic was gritty, intense, and somewhat disquieting, and the TV show managed to maintain this somber tone while adding instances of unexpected sweetness. In its brief run, consisting of only two seasons, the show successfully conveyed a complete narrative that struck a chord with viewers globally.
The blend of somber wit and raw emotion in “The End of the Fing World” sets it apart as an exceptionally distinctive comedic adaptation from contemporary memory.
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2025-08-21 19:42