Exploring the Thrilling World of Popular Superhero TV Shows: From Superman & Lois to The Umbrella Academy

From the streets of Metropolis to the twisted mind of Harley Quinn, from the cosmic adventures of the Watchmen to the gritty world of The Boys, the realm of superhero TV shows has taken viewers on a thrilling rollercoaster ride of action, drama, and captivating storytelling. With fan-favorite characters like Loki, Wanda Maximoff, and Jessica Jones, these shows have become a staple in the world of entertainment, garnering massive followings and leaving audiences hungry for more. As we eagerly await the next wave of superhero TV shows, let's take a closer look at some of the most popular ones that have kept us on the edge of our seats.

Baymax

Disney released all six episodes of the television series Baymax on June 29, 2022. The show continues the story of Baymax, the lovable healthcare robot from the movie Big Hero 6. In this series, Baymax uses his nursing programming to assist and support various individuals within his community. While each episode initially seems disconnected, the finale brings all the plot threads together, showcasing the significant impact Baymax has had on the lives of those he has helped.

Baymax demonstrates the true essence of heroism in everyday life. He isn't a hero solely because of his super suit; rather, he is a hero who offers comfort and aid to those in need. Whether it's being there for a young girl during a difficult time or believing in someone who has lost faith in themselves, Baymax represents a different kind of superhero who inspires others.

Harley Quinn Season 3

HBO Max welcomed the return of the adult animated series Harley Quinn for its highly anticipated third season. Despite concerns of cancellation after the second season, fans were delighted to continue following the story of Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, now a couple. The new season delves into their dynamic, exploring the joys and challenges of being in a healthy relationship. Additionally, the series humorously reimagines classic DC characters like Swamp Thing and The Court of Owls.

One of the standout aspects of Harley Quinn is how it boldly presents Batman as the central antagonist of the season. The show's unique tone and central character allow for a deeper exploration of Batman's persona, offering insights that other adaptations cannot. With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, Harley Quinn exemplifies a fun and thought-provoking take on the DC Universe.

Stargirl Season 3

The CW recently confirmed that the third season of Stargirl will be the series' final season. While it is disappointing that the show will come to an end, the third season provides a satisfying conclusion to the story. Stargirl, the young heroine, must confront the original Starman and reflect on her role in the world. Throughout the series, she discovers that she is not merely a placeholder but a hero in her own right.

This season of Stargirl focuses on former villains transforming into heroic allies, emphasizing the belief that superheroes are meant to inspire others. Although there was still potential for further growth, the show concludes with a powerful three-season arc, showcasing the journey of a girl discovering her own superhero identity and embracing her compassionate nature as her greatest superpower.

The Boys Season 3

The third season of The Boys continues to raise the bar in terms of its edgy and provocative content. Alongside the increase in gore, explicit content, and shock value, the show maintains its tradition of using superheroes as a means to critique current political issues. The Boys tackles topics such as toxic masculinity, political division in the United States, and the limited impact of cancel culture on those in power. The introduction of Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy adds an exciting dynamic, leading to an epic showdown between two forms of evil that the protagonists may not fully comprehend.

The stage is set for an exciting shift in the status quo in season 4, promising to take the show in new and captivating directions. The Boys is more than just a graphic portrayal of superheroes; it employs the superhero archetypes to tell topical stories about the world we live in.

Ms. Marvel

Marvel Studios' Ms. Marvel provides audiences with a classic superhero series that harkens back to the spirit of the Sam Raimi Spider-Man films or the more recent Shazam. The show introduces viewers to a new hero, Kamala Khan, also known as Ms. Marvel. The standout performance by Iman Vellani immediately captures audiences' attention, offering a unique and culturally specific perspective that resonates universally.

Ms. Marvel serves as an audience surrogate for a generation that has grown up with the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a dominant blockbuster franchise. It skillfully combines humor with a deeply moving personal story about culture, identity, and embracing one's authentic self. While Ms. Marvel will make her next appearance in The Marvels, fans hope for the exciting prospect of a second season following the success of the first.

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, like its title character, breaks conventions and redefines what a Marvel Cinematic Universe entry can be. The series boasts a delightful sense of humor and well-developed characters, with Tatiana Maslany delivering a standout performance in the role of Jennifer Walters. Unlike other Marvel series, She-Hulk fully embraces its format as a television series, presenting fun stand-alone episodes that contribute to an overarching narrative about a woman discovering her true identity and taking control of her own story.

The season finale takes a daring approach, breaking the fourth wall in a way that could have jeopardized the show's essence. However, it remains true to the spirit of the She-Hulk character, ultimately making it not only the best MCU series of 2022 but also one of the franchise's finest entries.

The Sandman

While not a traditional superhero series, The Sandman is an adaptation of the popular DC/Vertigo Comic that reimagines a Golden Age DC superhero. The long-awaited series finally premiered on Netflix in August 2022, fulfilling the dreams of its fervent fanbase.

The Sandman successfully captures the essence of the original comics while also adapting the material for a television format. It captivates not only hardcore fans but also attracts new audiences, making it one of the biggest series of the year. The bonus episode released after the premiere exemplifies the series' creativity, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating the forthcoming second season.

Peacemaker

Peacemaker, set after the events of The Suicide Squad, focuses on Christopher Smith, an aggressively nationalist antihero who works with A.R.G.U.S. to combat an alien threat on Earth. The show delves into Smith's character development, particularly his complex relationship with his father.

Peacemaker received widespread acclaim for its humor, unique perspective on vigilantism, and John Cena's impeccable performance. However, its facetious nature did not resonate with every viewer, with some feeling that showrunner James Gunn's approach was too unconventional.

Peacemaker

Freddie Stroma, Peacemaker

HBO Max presents Peacemaker, a superhero series showcasing John Cena as the titular character, known as Peacemaker. He is a muscle-bound and somewhat foolish individual who seeks peace at any cost, even if it means resorting to extreme violence. James Gunn's spin-off of The Suicide Squad follows Peacemaker and his team of black ops as they confront a mysterious group of villains called the Butterflies. Though the plot takes a backseat to the show's entertaining and hair-metal party atmosphere, it remains true to the character's comedic essence. The opening credits, featuring a choreographed dance routine to glam rock, encapsulate the show's fun-loving spirit. Cena's incredible performance, coupled with Gunn's dedication to creating shamelessly entertaining content, results in a series that combines the irreverence of Deadpool with the dark satire of The Boys. -Tim Surette

Loki

Disney/Marvel's Loki finally gives Tom Hiddleston's beloved character the spotlight, free from the constraints of his conscience. The show embraces the unique concept of a crime thriller, following an alternate version of Loki who has broken reality by stealing the Tesseract in Avengers: Endgame. Now, it is his responsibility to repair the timeline he unintentionally disrupted. Recruited by Owen Wilson's Mobius M. Mobius at the Time Variance Authority (TVA), Loki traverses through history, encountering numerous twists and turns along the way. More akin to an actual comic book brought to life, the series presents a madcap adventure that stands on its own while setting the stage for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. -Allison Picurro

WandaVision

Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany take the lead in WandaVision, a unique series with a gimmick that extends beyond traditional superhero narratives. The show finds Wanda and Vision attempting to live a seemingly normal life in a suburban New Jersey town. As they play out various sitcom eras and don period clothing, they must conceal their superpowers from their neighbors. However, it becomes increasingly evident that all is not as it seems within this constructed reality. WandaVision gives these beloved characters the spotlight they deserve, highlighted by Kathryn Hahn's incredible performance. It serves as an essential piece of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, directly leading into Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. -Allison Picurro

Superman & Lois

Superman & Lois offers a compelling exploration of Clark Kent and Lois Lane's lives as they navigate the complexities of parenting while juggling Superman's heroic responsibilities. Tyler Hoechlin's performance as Superman, alongside Elizabeth Tulloch's portrayal of Lois Lane, shines amidst the show's ambition and visually stunning cinematography. While the series features plenty of action and thrills, its heart lies in the Kent family's domestic life, emphasizing the challenges and triumphs of being working parents. Although it falls short compared to other currently airing superhero shows, Superman & Lois is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the world's most iconic superheroes. -Kelly Connolly

The Boys

The Boys offers a darker take on superheroes, as it challenges the notion of heroes as celebrities. In this world, superheroes often escape the consequences of their actions due to their fame and connections. The series follows Hughie Campbell as he seeks to take down these "heroes" after the accidental death of his girlfriend. Despite the show's graphic and violent nature, it manages to infuse dark humor throughout. The Boys combines elements of blood and guts with moments of hysterical laughter, delivering a unique blend that captivates its audience and pushes the boundaries of what a superhero series can be.

Watchmen

HBOWatchmen, like The Boys, offers a darker perspective on the superhero genre, but with a distinct difference. While The Boys features numerous superpowered characters, Watchmen focuses on only one. The rest of its "masked adventurers" are ordinary individuals who have suffered trauma and seek refuge in alternate identities. Serving as a sort of sequel to Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' classic comic, this limited series unfolds in an alternate present where police officers don masks to protect their identities and detectives adopt full-fledged superhero personas, such as Tulsa's Angela Abar, alias Sister Night (Regina King). Angela becomes embroiled in a white supremacist conspiracy within the police department that reaches the highest echelons of power. Simultaneously, she harbors a secret of her own, one that may alter everything. Damon Lindelof's limited series delivers a relentless plot and an unflinching exploration of race in America, making it a must-watch for fans of superhero stories. -Liam Mathews

Doom Patrol

DC UniverseDoom Patrol may just be the best superhero show on TV. This ragtag team of superheroes is unique in that each member grapples with their own personal demons, which only serves to make their collective efforts to save the world all the more extraordinary and heartwarming. The show strikes a delightful balance between the bizarre and the hilarious, while also delivering moments of profound sadness. Notably, it features a gender non-conforming street—a literal street—that houses a captivating drag club and welcomes lost souls. This feel-good series also showcases a terrifying performance by Alan Tudyk as Mr. Nobody, the supervillain who relentlessly torments the Doom Patrol throughout the first season.

Jessica Jones

NetflixFor those seeking a break from campy superheroes, Jessica Jones is the perfect series to binge. The show revolves around Jessica Jones (Krysten Ritter), a New York City-based private investigator who occasionally uses her super-strength to aid her line of work. Traumatized by a past abduction and forced to succumb to mind control by the villain Kilgrave (David Tennant), Jessica struggles with her own stability. While the show's gritty realism tempers some of its fantastical elements, its true appeal lies in its nuanced characters. By delving into the emotional journeys of each character, Jessica Jones offers a captivating and compelling binge-watch experience.

Krypton

Gavin Bond/SyfyFor a fresh take on Superman, Krypton is a must-watch series. Unlike the typical Superman narrative that revolves around Clark Kent, Krypton rewinds the clock to focus on Superman's grandfather and his life before the planet's destruction. The show incorporates numerous Easter eggs for fans of the comic books and, by exploring the class struggles and power dynamics of Krypton, provides a more detailed and intriguing look into the planet's history.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Chloe Bennet, Clark Gregg, and Ming-Na- Wen, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Mitch Haaseth, ABCIf you've ever found yourself watching a superhero film and wondering about the aftermath and cleanup process, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is the series for you. Set in the Marvel universe, this show follows the government agency that often works alongside the Avengers, handling missions that don't necessarily require the involvement of "the big guns." Boasting a blend of wackiness and heartfelt storytelling, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. reinvents itself with every season, offering a perfect combination of high stakes and humor.

Supergirl

Melissa Benoist, Supergirl Katie Yu, Katie Yu/The CWAlso set within the CW Arrowverse, Supergirl traces the journey of Kryptonian refugee Kara Danvers (Melissa Benoist) as she follows in the footsteps of her cousin Clark Kent (Tyler Hoechlin) and embraces her destiny as Supergirl, protector of National City. While the show features typical superhero staples such as bulletproof skin and billionaire villains, it also addresses various social justice issues. Supergirl makes strong feminist statements, tackles xenophobia, and explores transgender rights, among other important topics.

Legion

FXFor a mind-bending television experience, look no further than Legion. Set in the X-Men universe, the series follows David Haller (Dan Stevens), a mutant who was misdiagnosed with schizophrenia as a child but possesses immense psychic abilities. When David falls in with a group of mutants who aim to train him in mastering and controlling his powers rather than suppressing them, his life undergoes a dramatic transformation. Legion dazzles with its visually stunning presentation and its penchant for delivering mind-boggling twists throughout its three seasons.

DC's Legends of Tomorrow

Amy Louise Pemberton, Caity Lotz and Jes Macallan, DC's Legends of Tomorrow Jack Rowand/The CWSpeaking of zany superheroes, DC's Legends of Tomorrow is the perfect show to indulge yourself and leave seriousness behind for a few hours. This series follows a time-traveling team of superheroes known as the Legends, whose primary mission is to have as much fun as possible while safeguarding the world and the timeline. Imagine beloved superheroes being dropped into 17th century France one day and then battling a giant stuffed animal the next—this is essentially the essence of DC's Legends of Tomorrow.

Smallville

Michael Courtney/Warner Bros./Getty ImagesSeeking a long-lasting show to embark upon? Look no further than Smallville. Comprising 10 seasons, this series may seem like a mountain to climb, but the journey will transform you. Initially, the show presents a peculiar origin story filled with weekly villains that perfectly embody the early 2000s vibe. However, Smallville rapidly evolves into one of the best Superman series ever made. Even though it takes 217 episodes, the series ultimately delivers Superman in all his glory.

Teen Titans

Cartoon Network/DCLooking for a family-friendly option? Teen Titans has got you covered. This animated series seamlessly blends all the campy tropes associated with teenage superheroes with exceptional storytelling. Teen Titans follows a team of teenage superheroes—an alien, a cyborg, a former sidekick, a shapeshifter, and a witch—as they reside in a giant T-shaped building, battle villains, and then cap off their adventures with a pizza party. It's a heartwarmingly pure series that appeals to all ages.

The Umbrella Academy

Christos Kalohoridis/NetflixThe Umbrella Academy, a Netflix series, follows a group of seven superpowered individuals who were adopted by a billionaire and raised to save the world. When their father dies, the estranged siblings reunite, setting off a chain of events that ultimately leads to an impending apocalypse. The Umbrella Academy effectively critiques problematic superhero tropes, exploring what would happen if an eccentric billionaire were to raise superpowered children in an isolated training environment and weaponize their abilities. The result is a captivating series that speaks to the complexities of the superhero genre.

Luke Cage

David Lee/NetflixAlthough we may forever mourn the cancellation of Luke Cage, there's nothing stopping you from enjoying the three seasons available on Netflix. Introduced in Jessica Jones, Luke Cage (Mike Colter) is a Harlem bartender blessed with superhuman strength and unbreakable skin following a failed experiment. Luke Cage tackles racial politics head-on, while also subverting problematic black superhero tropes that have often plagued the genre. With a star-studded cast and exceptional performances, Luke Cage offers a superhero series imbued with genuine substance.

In a world dominated by superpowers and superhero sagas, it can be difficult to choose which TV shows deserve our precious viewing time. However, this list of popular superhero TV shows not only guarantees exhilarating action and thrilling storylines but also showcases the incredible range of talents within the genre. From the heartwarming adventures of Superman & Lois portraying the iconic superhero as a family man to the darkly comedic brilliance of Peacemaker highlighting James Gunn's exceptional writing skills, these shows captivate audiences with their unique perspectives. Whether you're a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe or prefer the gritty realism of DC Comics, there's something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in a world where extraordinary powers and extraordinary storytelling collide.