10 Shows Like Gotham (2014) You Need to Watch

Description: Smallville and Gotham both explore the formative years of iconic DC characters before they become superheroes. While Smallville focuses on Clark Kent's journey to becoming Superman, Gotham shows Bruce Wayne's path to Batman. Both shows blend coming-of-age stories with superhero mythology and feature young protagonists dealing with extraordinary circumstances.

Fact: Smallville holds the record for longest-running American live-action superhero TV series. Tom Welling initially turned down the role of Clark Kent three times. The show's 'no tights, no flights' rule meant Superman never fully suited up during its run.

Description: Titans shares Gotham's dark, mature take on DC characters and its focus on crime and vigilante justice. Both shows feature gritty urban settings and explore the psychological toll of crime-fighting. The shows also delve into the relationships between mentors and protégés, with Titans focusing on Dick Grayson's journey from Robin to Nightwing.

Fact: Titans was originally developed for TNT before moving to DC Universe. Brenton Thwaites' Nightwing suit took over 8 hours to apply. The show features one of the most comic-accurate depictions of Robin's costume.

Description: While The Boys is more extreme in its content, it shares Gotham's cynical view of heroism and exploration of corruption. Both shows deconstruct superhero mythology and feature morally ambiguous characters. The shows also share a dark sense of humor and graphic violence.

Fact: The Boys was originally developed for Cinemax before moving to Amazon. Karl Urban didn't read the comics before taking the role of Billy Butcher. The show's Homelander is inspired by a mix of Superman and Donald Trump.

Description: Arrow shares similarities with Gotham (2014) as both are gritty, crime-driven superhero dramas set in a dark urban environment. Both shows explore the origins of iconic DC characters, with Arrow focusing on Oliver Queen's transformation into the Green Arrow and Gotham delving into the rise of Batman's rogues' gallery. The shows also share a noir-inspired visual style and themes of corruption and redemption.

Fact: Arrow was the first show in the Arrowverse, a shared universe of DC TV shows. Stephen Amell performed many of his own stunts. The show popularized the use of flashbacks to tell parallel stories.

Description: While The Flash is more lighthearted than Gotham, both shows are part of DC's television universe and explore the origins of iconic superheroes. They share a focus on crime-fighting and feature a mix of procedural and serialized storytelling. Both shows also incorporate elements of science fiction and fantasy into their narratives.

Fact: The Flash features the first live-action appearance of the multiverse in DC television. Grant Gustin was originally considered for the role of Billy Batson in a Shazam movie. The show's costume was designed by the same team that worked on Arrow.

Description: Constantine shares Gotham's supernatural elements and dark, moody atmosphere. Both shows deal with occult themes and feature protagonists who navigate morally gray areas. The shows also explore the hidden, mystical side of their respective universes.

Fact: Constantine was canceled after one season but the character later appeared in Arrow and Legends of Tomorrow. Matt Ryan has played John Constantine in multiple DC properties. The show was praised for its accurate depiction of the Hellblazer comics.

Description: While Supergirl is more optimistic than Gotham, both shows explore the lives of young heroes in a world that fears or misunderstands them. They share themes of identity and responsibility, with Supergirl focusing on Kara Zor-El's journey and Gotham on Bruce Wayne's. Both shows also feature strong female characters in prominent roles.

Fact: Supergirl was originally developed for CBS before moving to The CW. Melissa Benoist was cast after sending in an audition tape from her iPhone. The show features television's first transgender superhero with the character of Dreamer.

Description: Lucifer shares Gotham's dark tone and crime procedural elements, though with a supernatural twist. Both shows feature charismatic antiheroes navigating morally ambiguous worlds. The shows also explore themes of identity and redemption, with Lucifer focusing on the Devil's journey and Gotham on the origins of Batman's villains.

Fact: Lucifer was originally developed for Fox, the same network that aired Gotham. Tom Ellis learned to play the piano for the role. The show was saved from cancellation by Netflix after fan campaigns.

Description: Doom Patrol shares Gotham's focus on misfit characters and unconventional storytelling. Both shows feature damaged protagonists and explore themes of trauma and redemption. While Doom Patrol is more surreal and comedic, both shows push the boundaries of traditional superhero narratives.

Fact: Doom Patrol features Brendan Fraser's first regular TV role in decades. The show's Mr. Nobody serves as both narrator and antagonist. It was the first DC Universe original series to be renewed for a second season.

Description: Batwoman shares Gotham's dark tone and focus on Gotham City's criminal underworld. Both shows explore the legacy of the Wayne family and feature strong female leads. The shows also share a visual aesthetic that blends noir elements with comic book stylization.

Fact: Batwoman features television's first lesbian superhero as the lead character. Ruby Rose stepped down from the role after one season due to the physical demands. The show's suit was designed by the same team that worked on the Arrowverse crossovers.