Throughout superhero films and television series, the DC Universe has seen its fair share of iconic heroes brought to life on the big and small screens. From the Dark Knight’s brooding presence to the Scarlet Speedster’s lightning-fast heroics, audiences have witnessed the adventures of numerous beloved heroes. However, amidst the well-explored territories, there lies a trove of untapped potential within the vast realm of DC Comics.
In this article, we delve into the world of characters who have yet to make their live-action debut, despite their rich and captivating narratives within the comic book pages. These unsung heroes and villains bring unique abilities, intriguing storylines, and a fresh perspective that could add new dimensions to the ever-evolving tapestry of DC’s cinematic and television universes. Join us as we shine a spotlight on 10 DC heroes patiently waiting for their moment to shine in the limelight.
10. Deadman
Created by Arnold Drake and Carmine Infantino, Deadman first appeared in Strange Adventures #205 in 1967. Boston Brand was a trapeze artist who met an untimely demise during a performance. However, instead of moving on to the afterlife, he is granted a second chance by the Hindu goddess Rama Kushna. Boston Brand returns as Deadman, a spirit with the ability to possess and control the bodies of the living. Back in 2011, WBTV brought on board Eric Kripke, the mastermind behind Supernatural, to spearhead the development of a Deadman television series for The CW. However, despite the initial plans, the Deadman series never came to fruition, and Kripke has since ventured into other projects, redirecting his creative endeavors elsewhere.
9. Mister Miracle
Created by the legendary Jack Kirby, made his first appearance in Mister Miracle #1 in 1971. Scott Free, the alter ego of Mister Miracle, hails from the New Gods, a race of powerful beings existing on the planets New Genesis and Apokolips. Scott was raised in the brutal world of Apokolips but managed to escape to Earth, seeking refuge and adopting the identity of Mister Miracle. Director Ava DuVernay and acclaimed comic writer Tom King joined forces to collaborate on a highly anticipated New Gods film. Unfortunately, despite the excitement surrounding its development, the project faced cancellation in April 2021, leaving fans disappointed and the future of this cinematic endeavor uncertain.
8. Animal Man
Created by writer Dave Wood and artist Carmine Infantino, first appeared in Strange Adventures #180 in 1965. The character gained significant popularity and underwent a reimagining by writer Grant Morrison in the late 1980s. The revamped series, titled Animal Man, brought Buddy Baker into the spotlight as a superhero with a unique set of powers. Buddy Baker is a family man and a former stuntman who gains the ability to temporarily absorb the attributes of any animal nearby. His powers extend beyond mere physical enhancements, allowing him to access the memories and experiences of the animals he channels. This connection with the animal kingdom adds depth to Buddy’s character, as he grapples with the responsibilities and consequences of his abilities.
7. Plastic Man
Created by writer Jack Cole, Plastic Man made his first appearance in Police Comics #1 in 1941. Eel O’Brian was a small-time crook who, after a chemical accident, gained the ability to stretch and shape his body like rubber. Transforming from a life of crime, Eel decided to use his newfound powers for good and became the superhero known as Plastic Man. A film was in development in the early 1990s, tapping Bryan Spicer as the director and enlisting The Wachowskis for the writing duties. However, despite early efforts, the project faced cancellation. Subsequently, a renewed attempt was made in 2018 within the framework of the DCEU, with Amanda Idoko penning the screenplay before being cancelled again.
6. Static
After exposure to a mutagen gas during a gang war, he gains electromagnetic powers, including the ability to generate, control, and manipulate electricity. Embracing his newfound abilities, Virgil Hawkins becomes the superhero known as Static, using his powers to fight crime and protect his community. A live-action Static Shock film was officially announced to be in development at DC Fandome in 2020. The production gained a significant addition as Michael B. Jordan joined the team, taking on the role of co-producer. Randy McKinnon was selected to craft the screenplay, however there have been no other updates on the film, besides James Gunn confirming he has plans for Static in the new DCU.
5. The Creeper
The Creeper, alter ego of Jack Ryder, is a character created by Steve Ditko and first appeared in Showcase #73 in 1968. Jack Ryder is a former television personality and investigative reporter who transforms into The Creeper after an encounter with a scientist’s experimental serum. The serum grants Ryder enhanced strength, agility, and a regenerative healing factor. It also gives him a distinctive appearance, featuring wild green hair, an orange costume, and a maniacal grin. As The Creeper, Ryder possesses an unpredictable and eccentric persona, combining elements of both hero and antihero. The character is known for his confrontational and unconventional methods when dealing with crime. No live-action adaptations have been attempted with this hero.
4. The Question
Using a mask made of pseudoderm and a faceless visage, The Question is dedicated to unveiling the truth, no matter the cost. Vic Sage is a martial artist and a skilled detective with no superhuman abilities. Instead, he relies on his intellect, physical prowess, and determination to seek justice. This hero has been known for his philosophical outlook, often questioning societal norms and the nature of good and evil. There were plans for The Question to make an appearance within the Arrowverse series. However, in December 2017, Marc Guggenheim disclosed that DC Films had intentions for the character, thereby preventing the television network from utilizing him as originally intended, however no update on the hero’s film appearance have been made.
3. The Phantom Stranger
Created by John Broome and Carmine Infantino, The Phantom Stranger first appeared in The Phantom Stranger #1 in 1952. His true origins and nature are shrouded in mystery, adding to the allure of the character. The Phantom Stranger is often portrayed as an observer and guide, intervening in supernatural events to aid or advise heroes and individuals in need. He possesses vast mystical powers, including teleportation, time manipulation, and knowledge of the occult. The hero’s identity and motivations are deliberately left ambiguous, contributing to his mystique. No live-action adaptations have been attempted with this hero.
2. Etrigan the Demon
Created by writer-artist Jack Kirby, first appearing in The Demon #1 in 1972. The character is unique in that it consists of two entities: the demon Etrigan and the human Jason Blood. In ancient Camelot, the wizard Merlin binds the demon Etrigan to the mortal Jason Blood as a means of controlling the creature’s destructive powers. When summoned, Etrigan manifests as a powerful, rhyming demon with superhuman strength, agility, and a variety of mystical abilities. Jason Blood, on the other hand, is a scholar and expert in occult matters who shares a mystical connection with Etrigan. Despite their uneasy alliance, often find themselves at odds due to their conflicting natures. No live-action adaptations have been attempted with this hero.
1. Big Barda
Also created by Jack Kirby and originally raised on the harsh planet Apokolips and trained as a fierce warrior, Barda eventually rebels against the tyrannical rule of Darkseid and joins the side of good. She becomes a powerful ally and love interest to Mister Miracle (Scott Free). Barda possesses superhuman strength, agility, and advanced combat skills, making her one of the most formidable warriors in the DC Universe. Despite her imposing appearance, Barda is characterized by her sense of honor, loyalty, and a deep love for Scott Free. Barda was suppose to appear alongside Mister Miracle in Ava DuVernay and Tom King’s New Gods film, but as mentioned previously, the film was cancelled in April 2021.
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