The DC Universe is proving that television is just as vital as the big screen. With hits like Creature Commandos and Lanterns earning critical acclaim, the DCU is sidestepping the TV slump that plagued the MCU. This opens the door for a wealth of characters to shine in serialized storytelling, where their arcs can breathe and evolve. Here are eight DC legends who should make their DCU debut on TV before ever gracing a movie theater.
Granny Goodness: The Darkseid's Right Hand
Fans of Young Justice and the acclaimed Mister Miracle comic know Granny Goodness as a master manipulator and recruiter for Apokolips. With Darkseid set to appear in the upcoming Mister Miracle film, introducing Granny on TV—perhaps in a series like Creature Commandos or a new animated show—would build her menace gradually. Her role as a brainwasher and military leader is too rich to cram into a movie's runtime.
Captain Cold: The Flash's Chilling Foe
The upcoming The People v. Gorilla Grodd series is the perfect place for Captain Cold to debut. As a reporter investigates Grodd's wrongful conviction, he'd naturally cross paths with other Flash villains. Captain Cold, with his iconic cold gun and complex morality, would add depth to the courtroom drama. A TV arc could explore his rivalry with the Flash and his own code of honor, making him a fan favorite.
Booster Gold: Time-Traveling Comic Relief
Booster Gold's friendship with Blue Beetle is legendary. With Jaime Reyes getting his own animated series, Booster could easily pop in for comedic and heartfelt moments. His time-traveling antics and self-serving yet heroic nature would shine in a serialized format, allowing for running gags and character growth. Plus, fans are already campaigning for Shayne Topp to voice him—a perfect fit.
Ted Kord: The Original Blue Beetle
Since the Blue Beetle film's canon status is murky, Ted Kord's fate is up in the air. A TV series could reintroduce him as a gadget-based hero, a stark contrast to Jaime's alien-tech powers. His wit and underdog spirit would resonate with audiences, and his dynamic with Booster Gold could anchor a buddy-comedy series. It's a chance to honor the classic character without movie pressure.
Orion: The Warrior of Light
Orion, Darkseid's son and Mister Miracle's adoptive brother, is a complex figure—born of war but choosing heroism. His internal struggle is perfect for TV, where a season could explore his dual nature. Appearing in Mister Miracle is likely, but a dedicated series or a recurring role in an animated show would let him develop beyond a cameo.
Wally West: The People's Flash
Whether as Kid Flash or the main Flash, Wally West is a beloved character. In The People v. Gorilla Grodd, Wally could be a young hero navigating the legal system, offering a fresh perspective. His journey from sidekick to hero is a classic arc that TV can handle with nuance, unlike a movie's limited time.
Kyle Rayner: The Last Green Lantern
With Lanterns already introducing John Stewart and Hal Jordan, Kyle Rayner could debut in a TV series as a new recruit or a lone survivor. His artistic soul and emotional depth would thrive in a serialized story, exploring the Green Lantern mythos beyond the core duo. A show could delve into his origin and his role in the Corps' future.
Plastic Man: The Stretchy Hero
Plastic Man's comedic and flexible nature is tailor-made for TV. A series could blend crime-solving with slapstick humor, similar to The Flash's lighter moments. His shape-shifting abilities offer endless visual gags, and his reformed criminal past adds layers. TV would let him be a recurring presence, popping up in other shows for crossover fun.
These characters have the depth and appeal to anchor their own shows or enrich existing ones. By debuting on TV, they can build loyal fanbases before any movie appearance, ensuring their big-screen moments are earned and impactful. The DCU's TV slate is the perfect launching pad.
