Top 15 Best DC TV Shows of All Time, Ranked

DC Comics has crafted some of the most exciting TV shows, bringing their heroes and villains to life with gripping stories and bold visuals. From dark crime tales to lively animated epics, there’s a series here for every kind of viewer.

I’ve picked out 15 DC shows that stand out for their unique spins on iconic characters. Whether you’re into intense action or quirky comedy, these series deliver the heart of the DC universe. Let’s dive into the lineup, starting with a chaotic fan favorite.

15. ‘Harley Quinn’

Voiced by Kaley Cuoco, Harley Quinn takes center stage in this animated hit that launched in 2019 on DC Universe, later moving to HBO Max. She breaks free from the Joker to lead her own crew, including Poison Ivy, in a wild mix of humor and chaos. The vibrant animation and sharp jabs at DC lore make it a blast.

Now in its fourth season and still going strong, ‘Harley Quinn’ balances adult comedy with surprising heart. It’s perfect for anyone craving a rebellious, fun take on superheroes. Jump in for a colorful, unpredictable ride.

14. ‘Black Lightning’

Cress Williams stars as Jefferson Pierce in ‘Black Lightning’, a CW series that ran from 2018 to 2021. A retired hero with electric powers, he returns to fight crime while juggling life as a school principal and father. The show’s focus on family and social issues gives it a grounded feel.

Its four seasons weave intense action with personal stakes, featuring villains like Tobias Whale. If you want a superhero story rooted in real-world struggles, this one’s a powerful watch.

13. ‘Justice League Unlimited’

Airing on Cartoon Network from 2004 to 2006, ‘Justice League Unlimited’ expands the original ‘Justice League’ with a huge cast of DC heroes like Wonder Woman and Green Lantern. It delivers epic team-ups and sprawling stories tied to the DC animated universe.

The sharp animation and voice work, including Kevin Conroy as Batman, make it iconic. Multi-episode arcs like the Cadmus storyline keep you glued. If you love grand superhero adventures, this is a top pick.

12. ‘Gotham’

‘Gotham’ dives into the city before Batman, focusing on young Bruce Wayne and detective James Gordon, played by Ben McKenzie. Airing on Fox from 2014 to 2019, it explores the origins of villains like Riddler and Penguin over five seasons.

The gritty crime-drama vibe and strong cast, including David Mazouz as Bruce, create a dark world. If you’re curious about Gotham’s underbelly and its iconic rogues, this show’s a must-watch.

11. ‘Young Justice’

Starting in 2010 on Cartoon Network and later revived on DC Universe and HBO Max, ‘Young Justice’ follows young heroes like Aqualad and Robin forming a covert team. Its sharp writing tackles mature themes like identity and betrayal, setting it apart.

Running for four seasons, it blends epic battles with deep character arcs, featuring villains like Vandal Savage. The sleek animation and strong voice cast make it a fan favorite. If you love team-based animated action, this is for you.

10. ‘Lucifer’

Tom Ellis shines as Lucifer Morningstar in this 2016 series, which started on Fox and later moved to Netflix. A devil running a nightclub in Los Angeles, he solves crimes while exploring his own growth. The mix of supernatural drama and witty humor spans six seasons.

Based on a DC Vertigo comic, it thrives on Lucifer’s bond with detective Chloe Decker. If you’re after a clever, fun spin on DC with sharp dialogue, this show’s a binge-worthy gem.

9. ‘Titans’

‘Titans’ offers a gritty take on the Teen Titans, starring Brenton Thwaites as Dick Grayson. Launched in 2018 on DC Universe and later HBO Max, it follows young heroes like Raven and Starfire forming a team. The mature tone and strong character arcs stand out.

Running for four seasons until 2023, it balances dark drama with slick superhero action. The costumes and fight scenes shine, especially for fans of Nightwing. If you like intense team dynamics, give this a shot.

8. ‘Arrow’

Kicking off the Arrowverse in 2012, ‘Arrow’ stars Stephen Amell as Oliver Queen, who becomes the vigilante Green Arrow. The CW series ran for eight seasons, blending gritty action with soap opera drama. It laid the foundation for a shared DC TV universe.

The show follows Oliver’s journey from playboy to hero, with intense fight scenes and complex villains. Its impact on superhero TV is undeniable. If you enjoy dark, grounded hero stories, start here.

7. ‘The Flash’

Grant Gustin stars as Barry Allen in ‘The Flash’, a CW series that ran from 2014 to 2023 across nine seasons. It follows the speedster hero fighting crime in Central City with heart and humor. Crossovers with other Arrowverse shows add extra excitement.

The mix of sci-fi action and emotional stakes, like Barry’s bond with his team, keeps it engaging. Villains like Reverse-Flash and Zoom bring wild energy. If you want fast-paced superhero thrills, this is a must.

6. ‘Stargirl’

Brec Bassinger shines as Courtney Whitmore in ‘Stargirl’, which premiered in 2020 on DC Universe and The CW. A teenager wielding a cosmic staff, she becomes a hero tied to the Justice Society of America. The upbeat tone and legacy focus make it a gem.

Running for three seasons until 2022, it blends teen drama with classic superhero vibes. The fun cast, including Luke Wilson, adds charm. If you love underdog stories with heart, this one’s a great pick.

5. ‘Doom Patrol’

‘Doom Patrol’ brings DC’s strangest team to life, starring Diane Guerrero, Brendan Fraser, and Matt Bomer. Launched in 2019 on DC Universe and later HBO Max, it follows misfits with bizarre powers. The quirky vibe and surreal action set it apart.

Its four seasons explore trauma and acceptance through wild adventures. Characters like Robotman and Crazy Jane keep you hooked. If you’re after something weird and heartfelt, this show delivers.

4. ‘Watchmen’

This 2019 HBO series expands the iconic ‘Watchmen’ comic, set decades later in a world of masked vigilantes. Regina King leads as Angela Abar, delivering a powerful performance in a story tackling racism and power. The bold narrative makes it unforgettable.

Running for one season of nine episodes, it weaves mystery with social commentary. The stellar cast, including Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, adds depth. If you want a thought-provoking superhero drama, dive in.

3. ‘Peacemaker’

Spinning off from ‘The Suicide Squad’ film, ‘Peacemaker’ stars John Cena as the chaotic anti-hero Christopher Smith. Launched in 2022 on HBO Max, it blends crude humor with surprising heart, exploring his troubled past. James Gunn’s direction keeps it wild.

The first season of eight episodes tackles a bizarre alien plot. Cena’s bold performance and quirky cast make it a riot. If you enjoy irreverent superhero stories, this one’s a blast.

2. ‘Superman & Lois’

Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch star as Clark Kent and Lois Lane in ‘Superman & Lois’, a CW series that ran from 2021 to 2024. It follows the couple balancing superhero life with raising two teenage sons. The family focus and small-town setting feel fresh.

Its four seasons deliver emotional depth and epic action, making it a modern Superman classic. If you love character-driven stories with heart, this show’s a top choice.

1. ‘Batman: The Animated Series’

Airing in the early 1990s on Fox Kids, ‘Batman: The Animated Series’ redefined the Dark Knight with its moody animation and complex stories. Kevin Conroy’s iconic voice as Batman captures both Bruce Wayne’s charm and the hero’s intensity.

Spanning 85 episodes, it tackles villains like the Joker with depth, inspiring a DC animated universe. The noir style and timeless appeal make it essential. If you want classic superhero storytelling, this is the one to watch.