15 Worst Superhero Show of All Time, Ranked

Television series featuring superheroes have proliferated across various networks and streaming platforms, showcasing both established comic book characters and new cape-wearing creations in their weekly schedules. Among the successful shows, there are numerous projects that faced challenges such as short lifespans, unexpected scheduling shifts, or ideas that failed to secure a lasting place.

This rundown examines television series that experienced setbacks in various aspects, delving into specific points such as episode numbers, broadcasting channels, actors, and how each program aligns with its overall franchise strategy. The listings are arranged from number fifteen to one, with each entry highlighting the key factors viewers often consider when choosing their next show to watch.

‘Black Scorpion’ (2001)

Originating from two movies by Roger Corman, this syndicated series presented a masked crime fighter maintaining order in an artistic interpretation of Los Angeles. Lead actress Michelle Lintel played the protagonist, while Adam West made frequent appearances. Over the course of its run, it produced twenty-two full-length episodes.

The show was broadcast on the Sci-Fi Channel, featuring realistic costumes and a weekly villain format reminiscent of the initial films. After finishing its sole season, the series’ live-action adaptation paused and reappeared in home video formats again.

‘The Guardians of Justice’ (2022)

This limited series on Netflix, produced by Adi Shankar, uniquely combined live-action, animation, and motion comic visuals over seven episodes. The narrative delved into a world post the demise of its most celebrated hero, with guest appearances from actors like Diamond Dallas Page, Sharni Vinson, and Denise Richards.

The project was an unusual addition to the creator’s collection, released simultaneously online, featuring various genres and styles blended together in each installment. Each episode typically lasted between twenty and thirty minutes.

‘Gotham Knights’ (2023)

This TV show from The CW revolved around Bruce Wayne’s adopted son assembling a group consisting of kids linked to Gotham City criminals, following Batman’s demise. Over the course of a thirteen-episode season, Oscar Morgan, Navia Robinson, and Misha Collins were the main characters.

The series, titled thusly by Natalie Abrams, Chad Fiveash, and James Stoteraux, bears no relation to the game carrying the same name. Debuting on our screens in March 2023 as part of the network’s DC collection, it came to an end later that year when The CW reorganized its scripted programming lineup.

‘Naomi’ (2022)

The TV show on The CW is a adaptation from a DC Comics character, developed by Brian Michael Bendis, David F Walker, and Jamal Campbell. This series tells the story of a teenager uncovering the source of her supernatural abilities. Kaci Walfall was the main character in this production, with Camila Moreno and Alexander Wraith making up part of the talented cast that spanned one season.

Ava DuVernay and Jill Blankenship created and managed the production of a thirteen-episode series, which was broadcast from January to May. This series formed part of the network’s extensive DC programming lineup during the TV season covering the years 2021-2022.

‘Inhumans’ (2017)

In simpler terms, the TV show named ABC series showcases characters from the royal family within the Marvel Comics universe. It stars Anson Mount, Serinda Swan, and Iwan Rheon. Initially, its first two episodes were shown exclusively in IMAX theaters, before the entire eight-episode season was broadcast on regular television.

The majority of the production took place in Hawaii, and the series had producers in common with other Marvel TV productions during that era. The season concluded in autumn and did not resume, thereby signaling the conclusion of Marvel’s intended small-screen direction at that time.

‘The Cape’ (2011)

On NBC, this innovative superhero series featured David Lyons as a cop transforming into a masked avenger following his unjust framing. Significant characters included Summer Glau and James Frain, and the series spanned over ten episodes.

The final episode became available online following some changes in the original broadcast schedule. Additionally, the series included supplementary web episodes titled “The Cape: Expanded Universe Webisodes,” which delved deeper into the show’s secondary characters and internal lore.

‘Mutant X’ (2001–2004)

Through distribution by Tribune Entertainment, this Marvel-inspired series focused on a group of people genetically modified – known as the New Mutants. Over three seasons, comprising 66 episodes, John Shea, Victoria Pratt, and Forbes March took leading roles.

The main filming locations for this production were in Canada, and it created a distinct mythology apart from the X-Men movie series, although they share a similar theme. The show went through several cast changes and concluded its third season with a finale that wrapped up the team’s storyline.

‘Birds of Prey’ (2002–2003)

In a not-too-distant future, Gotham City serves as the backdrop for this WB television series. The trio of Oracle, Huntress, and a metahuman named Dinah are the main characters. Ashley Scott, Dina Meyer, and Rachel Skarsten headline the cast, while Mia Sara appears as Harley Quinn throughout thirteen episodes.

The series drew ideas from the DC Comics comic book and blended them with new tales and well-known settings. It was broadcast between 2002 and 2003, culminating in a two-part finale to conclude its run.

‘Blade: The Series’ (2006)

In this new spin-off for Spike TV, we follow the adventures of the Marvel’s vampire hunter, portrayed by Kirk Jones (known as Sticky Fingaz in the series). The show unfolded over a dozen episodes, featuring impressive performances from Jill Wagner, Neil Jackson, and Jessica Gower.

Under the guidance of David S Goyer, the series debuted featuring an extended first episode, setting up a conflict based in Detroit. The season was broadcast during the summer season, concluding and completing its run within the same calendar year.

‘Marvel’s Iron Fist’ (2017–2018)

In the realm of Marvel’s shows on Netflix, this particular series chronicled the story of Danny Rand’s comeback in New York City, along with his association with mystical tutelage. Over the course of two seasons, Finn Jones, Jessica Henwick, and Tom Pelphrey graced our screens in twenty-three episodes in total.

The first season aired prior to the joint series ‘The Defenders’ and the second season brought in more characters from the comics. Eventually, the show came to an end when Netflix began phasing out its Marvel-branded collection, which also included shows like ‘Daredevil’, ‘Luke Cage’, and ‘Jessica Jones’. [Paraphrased]

‘Powerless’ (2017)

As a devoted fan, I’d love to share my thoughts about a hilarious NBC comedy series that unfolded within the DC universe. This show was uniquely set in an insurance and research company that dealt with extraordinary incidents involving superheroes. The charismatic trio of Vanessa Hudgens, Danny Pudi, and Alan Tudyk graced our screens for one season, delivering a remarkable performance that left us wanting more!

Initially, twelve episodes were made, with nine being broadcast on the network at the start of the year. The rest of the episodes, however, were later released on digital platforms, thereby making all episodes accessible to viewers and concluding the season.

‘Jupiter’s Legacy’ (2021)

Based on the comic book created by Mark Millar and Frank Quitely, this Netflix show centered around a diverse group of superheroes, both in costume and their families. Josh Duhamel and Ben Daniels led the cast alongside Leslie Bibb and Elena Kampouris, who were part of an extensive ensemble over eight episodes.

As a dedicated fan, I must share that the captivating narrative you’re referring to was brought to life by Millarworld, a crucial part of their partnership with the streaming giant. Following its debut, the live-action storyline temporarily took a backseat, allowing animated projects like ‘Super Crooks’ to flourish under the same creative roof.

‘Powers’ (2015–2016)

In simpler terms, this comic-turned-series – originally created by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming – marked the debut of an original scripted program on PlayStation Network. The story centers around detectives portrayed by Sharlto Copley and Susan Heyward, who work in a unique division dedicated to solving crimes involving individuals with superhuman abilities.

The series was initially filmed in Georgia for its first season and later moved production for the second. Over a span of two years, it produced twenty episodes. However, the show came to an end after season two due to the streaming platform’s decision to focus less on original scripted content.

‘Helstrom’ (2020)

This ten-episode show, now streaming on Hulu, chronicles the adventures of Daimon and Ana Helstrom – characters inspired by Marvel Comics’ supernatural narratives. The main roles are played by Tom Austen and Sydney Lemmon, with Elizabeth Marvel and Ariana Guerra in key supporting parts.

The project originated with Paul Zbyszewski and emerged during the shift from Marvel Television to Marvel Studios, marking their small-screen ventures. For branding purposes both on-screen and in marketing, it was introduced as an independent production amidst this organizational transition.

‘No Ordinary Family’ (2010–2011)

In this TV series titled ABC, Michael Chiklis and Julie Benz play the roles of parents. After an airplane accident, they acquire extraordinary powers, along with their two kids. Over the course of twenty episodes, Kay Panabaker and Jimmy Bennett join as integral characters, contributing to the family’s narrative.

Produced by Greg Berlanti and Jon Harmon Feldman, this series was broadcast from 2010-2011. It combined individual case investigations with ongoing plot developments. The season ended in the spring and unfortunately, no more episodes followed afterwards.

Share your picks for the superhero shows that should or should not be on this list in the comments.

2025-08-22 12:46