25 Best TV Shows Based on Comics
Adapting a comic book into a TV show is a tricky art. The best ones honor the source material’s spirit while crafting something fresh for the screen, blending bold visuals, rich characters, and stories that grip both longtime fans and new viewers.
From dark superhero dramas to vibrant animated classics, these 25 shows shine for capturing the heart of their comic book roots.
Riverdale (2017-2023)
Archie Comics’ wholesome world gets a dark twist in ‘Riverdale’ on The CW. KJ Apa stars as Archie Andrews in this teen drama filled with mystery.
The show keeps the comics’ core characters but adds gritty plots like murder and cults. Its bold changes create a soapy, addictive vibe.
Smallville (2001-2011)
DC’s ‘Smallville’ on The CW explores Clark Kent’s youth before he becomes Superman. Tom Welling’s grounded performance anchors this coming-of-age tale.
It stays true to the comics’ heart, blending teen drama with superhero origins. The show’s long run built a loyal fanbase.
Justice League (2001-2004)
DC’s ‘Justice League’ animated series unites iconic heroes like Batman and Wonder Woman. With voices like Kevin Conroy, it’s a fan favorite.
The show captures the comics’ epic team dynamics and thrilling battles. Its sharp writing makes it a timeless classic.
X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)
Marvel’s ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ brings Wolverine, Cyclops, and more to life. Its iconic theme song and bold stories hooked a generation.
It stays faithful to the comics’ themes of prejudice and teamwork. The show’s influence on superhero TV is undeniable.
Gotham (2014-2019)
DC’s ‘Gotham’ on Fox dives into Batman’s city before his rise. Ben McKenzie stars as a young Jim Gordon navigating a gritty world.
The show expands the comics’ lore with fresh takes on villains like Penguin. Its dark tone and strong cast keep it engaging.
Arrow (2012-2020)
DC’s ‘Arrow’ on The CW launched the Arrowverse with Stephen Amell as Green Arrow. It reimagines Oliver Queen as a brooding vigilante.
The series honors the comics’ action while adding serialized drama. Its success paved the way for more DC shows.
The Walking Dead (2010-2022)
Based on Robert Kirkman’s comic, ‘The Walking Dead’ on AMC follows survivors in a zombie apocalypse. Andrew Lincoln leads as Rick Grimes.
It captures the comic’s brutal survival themes and emotional stakes. The show’s gritty realism made it a cultural phenomenon.
Sweet Tooth (2021-2024)
Jeff Lemire’s ‘Sweet Tooth’ comic follows a hybrid boy in a ruined world. Netflix’s series, starring Christian Convery, brings this tale to life.
The show keeps the comic’s mix of hope and danger with lush visuals. It’s a heartfelt adaptation that resonates deeply.
The Flash (2014-2023)
DC’s ‘The Flash’ on The CW stars Grant Gustin as Barry Allen. It delivers high-speed action straight from the comics’ pages.
The series balances humor, heart, and iconic villains like Zoom. Its Arrowverse ties make it a fan-favorite staple.
Preacher (2016-2019)
Garth Ennis’ ‘Preacher’ comic is a wild supernatural tale. AMC’s series, with Dominic Cooper, matches its dark humor and chaos.
It tweaks the plot but keeps the comic’s bold spirit. The show’s quirky charm makes it a standout.
The Sandman (2022-2025)
Neil Gaiman’s ‘The Sandman’ comic blends myth and fantasy. Netflix’s adaptation, starring Tom Sturridge, nails its dreamlike tone.
The show’s visuals and deep story honor the source. It expands Morpheus’ world in ways fans adore.
Jessica Jones (2015-2019)
Marvel’s ‘Jessica Jones,’ based on Brian Michael Bendis’ comic, stars Krysten Ritter as a haunted PI. Netflix’s series dives into her pain.
It keeps the comic’s noir grit, with David Tennant’s Kilgrave chilling viewers. The focus on trauma sets it apart.
Superman & Lois (2021-2024)
DC’s Superman comics inspire ‘Superman & Lois’ on The CW. Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch shine as the iconic couple.
The show blends family drama with superhero action, staying true to the comics’ core. Its grounded take feels fresh.
Doom Patrol (2019-2023)
DC’s ‘Doom Patrol,’ rooted in Grant Morrison’s comics, follows oddball heroes. HBO Max’s series, with Brendan Fraser, embraces the weird.
It captures the comic’s surreal humor and heart. The cast’s chemistry makes this misfit tale soar.
Invincible (2021-Present)
Robert Kirkman’s ‘Invincible’ comic is a bloody superhero epic. Amazon’s animated series, voiced by Steven Yeun, matches its intensity.
It follows the comic’s shocking twists and Mark Grayson’s growth. The animation and stakes make it a must-watch.
WandaVision (2021)
Marvel’s ‘WandaVision,’ inspired by Scarlet Witch comics, stars Elizabeth Olsen in a sitcom-style MCU tale. Disney+ delivers a bold experiment.
The show captures the comics’ emotional weight, blending retro vibes with grief. Its creativity wowed audiences.
Moon Knight (2022)
Marvel’s ‘Moon Knight’ comic follows a hero with split personalities. Disney+’s series, with Oscar Isaac, dives into this dark world.
It nails the comic’s mystical tone and mental struggles. The Egyptian mythology adds a unique flair.
Lucifer (2016-2021)
Neil Gaiman’s ‘Lucifer’ comic, a ‘Sandman’ spinoff, inspires Netflix’s series. Tom Ellis charms as the devil-turned-club owner.
The show mixes procedural drama with the comic’s wit. It’s a fun, binge-worthy take on a complex figure.
The Umbrella Academy (2018-2024)
Gerard Way’s ‘The Umbrella Academy’ comic is a quirky superhero saga. Netflix’s series, with Elliot Page, brings its chaos to life.
It keeps the comic’s odd charm and emotional depth, with a great soundtrack. The show’s tweaks enhance the source.
Legion (2017-2019)
Marvel’s ‘Legion,’ tied to X-Men’s David Haller, is a surreal masterpiece. FX’s series, starring Dan Stevens, pushes boundaries.
It mirrors the comic’s trippy visuals and mental health themes. The bold storytelling makes it a gem.
Peacemaker (2021-Present)
DC’s ‘Peacemaker,’ based on Charlton Comics, stars John Cena as a chaotic antihero. HBO Max’s series, from James Gunn, is a wild ride.
It keeps the comic’s absurd humor while adding heart. The energy and cast make it a hit.
Watchmen (2019)
Damon Lindelof’s ‘Watchmen’ on HBO builds on Alan Moore’s graphic novel. Regina King stars in a tense, alternate-world sequel.
It respects the comic’s themes of power while carving a new path. The sharp writing earned high praise.
The Boys (2019-Present)
Garth Ennis’ ‘The Boys’ comic is a dark superhero satire. Amazon’s series, with Karl Urban, amps up the violence and commentary.
It stays true to the comic’s edge, with sharp scripts and shocking twists. The gritty take hooks viewers.
Daredevil (2015-2018)
Marvel’s ‘Daredevil,’ based on Stan Lee’s comic, stars Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock. Netflix’s series delivers gritty action.
It captures the comic’s dark tone, with Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin stealing scenes. The depth makes it exceptional.
Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995)
DC’s ‘Batman: The Animated Series,’ inspired by Batman comics, is a noir masterpiece. Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill define Batman and Joker.
The show’s style and stories honor Gotham’s legacy. It’s my top pick for comic book perfection.
Which comic book show stole your heart, or is there a classic I overlooked? Drop your pick in the comments!