10 Shows Like DC’s Legends of Tomorrow (2016)

Description: Titans shares with Legends of Tomorrow the concept of a superhero team with complex interpersonal dynamics. Both shows feature DC characters reimagined for modern audiences, though Titans maintains a darker, more mature tone. The shows explore similar themes of redemption and second chances for their characters.

Fact: Titans was originally developed for TNT before moving to DC Universe and later HBO Max. Brenton Thwaites (Dick Grayson/Robin) performed many of his own stunts, including the famous 'Fuck Batman' fight scene. The show features one of the most comic-accurate portrayals of Starfire in live-action.

Description: While much darker in tone, The Boys shares with Legends of Tomorrow a subversive take on superhero tropes. Both shows explore the consequences of heroism and feature unconventional team dynamics. The Boys' satirical approach to superhero culture provides an interesting contrast to Legends' more earnest adventure storytelling.

Fact: The Boys was originally developed for Cinemax before moving to Amazon Prime Video. Karl Urban (Billy Butcher) didn't read the comics before taking the role to avoid being influenced by the source material. The show's Homelander is inspired by a mix of Superman and Donald Trump, according to actor Antony Starr.

Description: Arrow is the foundational show of the Arrowverse, which includes Legends of Tomorrow. Both series feature a team of heroes fighting against formidable villains, with Arrow's darker tone influencing early seasons of Legends. The shows share characters like Sara Lance and Ray Palmer, who transitioned from Arrow to Legends.

Fact: Arrow was initially conceived as a more grounded, realistic take on the Green Arrow character, without superpowers. Stephen Amell performed many of his own stunts, including the famous salmon ladder exercise. The show popularized the use of flashbacks as a narrative device in superhero television.

Description: The Flash shares similarities with DC's Legends of Tomorrow as both are part of the Arrowverse, featuring interconnected storylines and crossovers. Both shows explore time travel, superhero team dynamics, and a mix of action and humor. The Flash's lighter tone and focus on legacy heroes align with Legends' playful and adventurous spirit.

Fact: The Flash introduced the concept of the multiverse to the Arrowverse, which became a central theme in later seasons of Legends of Tomorrow. Grant Gustin, who plays Barry Allen/The Flash, originally auditioned for the role of Oliver Queen in Arrow. The show's iconic running scenes were achieved using a treadmill and green screen technology.

Description: Supergirl shares Legends of Tomorrow's themes of heroism, found family, and balancing personal lives with superhero duties. Both shows feature strong female leads and explore cosmic threats. The crossover episodes between Supergirl and Legends highlight their shared universe and complementary tones.

Fact: Supergirl was originally developed for CBS before moving to The CW for its second season. Melissa Benoist's casting as Kara Danvers/Supergirl was announced on her birthday. The show features the first live-action portrayal of a transgender superhero with Nicole Maines as Dreamer.

Description: Lucifer shares with Legends of Tomorrow a blend of supernatural elements and character-driven humor. Both shows feature charismatic leads navigating extraordinary circumstances while maintaining a balance between drama and comedy. The shows' willingness to reinvent their source material creates interesting parallels.

Fact: Lucifer was originally developed by Fox before being canceled and revived by Netflix. Tom Ellis learned to play piano specifically for the role. The show's version of Lucifer Morningstar is significantly different from the comic book character, focusing more on redemption than villainy.

Description: Preacher shares with Legends of Tomorrow a mix of supernatural adventure and dark humor. Both shows feature unconventional heroes on a mission that spans time and space, though Preacher maintains a more violent and philosophical tone. The shows' willingness to take creative risks with their source material creates an interesting connection.

Fact: Preacher was in development hell for nearly 20 years before finally being adapted by AMC. Dominic Cooper (Jesse Custer) and Ruth Negga (Tulip O'Hare) are both accomplished stage actors in addition to their screen work. The show's version of God is portrayed as a corrupt, manipulative figure, differing significantly from traditional depictions.

Description: While darker in tone, Black Lightning shares with Legends of Tomorrow a focus on family dynamics within a superhero context. Both shows address social issues, though Black Lightning does so more directly. The eventual integration of Black Lightning into the Arrowverse created narrative connections with Legends.

Fact: Black Lightning was originally not part of the Arrowverse, but was retroactively connected in the 'Crisis on Infinite Earths' crossover. Cress Williams, who plays Jefferson Pierce/Black Lightning, previously appeared in Smallville as a different character. The show features one of the few Black superhero families in live-action television.

Description: Doom Patrol shares with Legends of Tomorrow a focus on misfit heroes and unconventional storytelling. Both shows blend humor with deep character exploration, though Doom Patrol leans more into surrealism and psychological themes. The shows' willingness to embrace weirdness sets them apart from more traditional superhero narratives.

Fact: Doom Patrol features the first live-action portrayal of a non-binary superhero with Riley Shanahan as Negative Man. Brendan Fraser provides the voice for Robotman while also performing the physical acting in flashbacks. The show's version of Mr. Nobody breaks the fourth wall, directly addressing the audience.

Description: Batwoman shares with Legends of Tomorrow a focus on legacy heroes and complex character relationships. Both shows feature LGBTQ+ representation in prominent roles (Sara Lance in Legends, Kate Kane in Batwoman). The shows' urban settings and mix of street-level and fantastical threats create thematic parallels.

Fact: Batwoman marks the first live-action TV series with an openly gay superhero as the lead character. Ruby Rose stepped down from the role after one season, leading to the introduction of a new character, Ryan Wilder. The show's version of Gotham City was redesigned to distinguish it from previous Batman adaptations.