Ever since the first comic book appearances of iconic heroes like Superman and Batman on small screens to the never-ending hailstorm of big-budget movie blockbusters, thesuperherogenre has long dominated the entertainment industry. And it’s showing no signs of slowing down. But with new Marvel and DC adaptations hitting the screen every other week, it can be easy to forget the live-action TV shows that came before. The 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s were a golden age for superhero series, and they explored the genre from every possible angle.
Today’s superhero TV shows andmovies have massive budgetsand use state-of-the-art special effects. But older shows accomplish a lot with limited resources by relying either on clever writing or a healthy dose of old-school charm. A lot of these live-action superhero TV shows have become forgotten gems, but they are worth rediscovering. From crime-fighting families to strange mutants, the list takes you back in time to a beloved era.
10‘Electra Woman and Dyna Girl’ (1976)
Electra Woman and Dyna Girl
Set inthe groovy and glittery world of the 1970sis this campy live-action superhero show titledElectra Woman and Dyna Girl, that featured two fearless female heroes showing the boys how crime-fighting is really done. It followed Lori and Judy, reporters from a magazine who transform into the titular superheroes, Electra Woman and Dyna Girl, and use high-tech gadgets and an Electra-Base to fight evil and battle formidable villains like The Sorcerer and Glitter Rock.
Retro Charm and Campy Fun
Created by Sid and Marty Krofft,Electra Woman and Dyna Girlconsisted of 16 episodes that aired as a part of the umbrella series The Krofft Supershow. It was the epitome of the colorful and zany spirit of the 1970s children’s shows and was brimming to the top with eye-popping visuals, over-the-top villains, and bizarre costumes. Deidre Hall and Judy Strangis led the show with their endearing spirits, and even though it lasted for a single short season, it’s still a nostalgic relic worth remembering.
9‘Mutant X’ (2001 – 2004)
Thematically similar toX-Menbut holding no connection to the comic book series of the same name,Mutant Xfollows a team of genetically engineered mutants created by the mysterious Genomex Corporation for the sole purpose of finding other mutants and aiding them. They are led by Adam Kane and each member possesses unique qualities – Shalimar Fox has feline-like agility, Brennan Mulway can manipulate electricity, Emma DeLauro has empathic powers, and Jesse Kilmartin can alter his molecular density.
Mutants Fighting for Justice
Produced during a time when superhero shows were gaining a massive audience,Mutant Xprovides a refreshing take on the superhero formula. It combines high-concept sci-fi with character-driven drama, features an intriguing premise, and uses stunning special effects.Mutant Xfaced legal issues due to being similar to Marvel’sX-Men, which is why its success was overshadowed, and it remains forgotten.
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8‘NightMan’ (1997 – 1999)
Transporting you to the shadowy world of San Francisco,NightMantells the story of a brilliant but troubled jazz musician named Johnny Domino, who leads a double life ever since he was struck by lightning. By day, he’s a renowned composer, by night, he transforms into the titular hero, dons a high-tech suit, telepathically senses evil and fights crime with the help of his mentor, Dr. Walton, and best friend, Frank Dominus.
A Moody and Mature Blend of Genres
If a superhero series likeNightManwere to premiere today, it would attract a large viewership. The reason is, it combines elements of superhero action with noir-inspired storytelling, features crime tropes, a sci-fi spectacle, a little bit of gothic romance, and focuses on Johnny’s dual life as a musician and vigilante. Its unique concept and campy execution, however, struggled to find the right fan following back in the day and the show remained largely under the radar.
7‘Powers’ (2015 – 2016)
Powerstakes place in a world where superheroes are a reality. They exist as a part of everyday life, their special abilities remaining hidden until they reach adulthood. We follow Christian Walker, a former superhero with the ability to fly, who loses his powers and becomes a detective investigating cases involving those with extraordinary powers. With his partner, Deena Pilgrim, he works for the Powers Division of the Los Angeles Police Department.
A Gritty Superhero Adaptation
Adapted from the comic book series by Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming,Powersoffereda gritty spin on the superhero genreand stood out because of its lore and detective storytelling. Despite the innovative premise and thought-provoking exploration of themes of power and fame, the series had inconsistent pacing and poor writing, which led to a mixed reception.Powersultimately fell victim to a premature cancelation after two seasons.
6‘M.A.N.T.I.S.’ (1994)
M.A.N.T.I.S.
InM.A.N.T.I.S., we follow Dr. Miles Hawkins, a brilliant African American scientist who is paralyzed from the waist down after being shot in the spine. Determined to fight crime and corruption, he develops a revolutionary exoskeleton that not only allows him to walk again but also grants him superhero abilities like strength and speed. He adopts the alter-ego of M.A.N.T.I.S. and uses his powers to confront all sorts of threats.
Groundbreaking but Overlooked
Created by Sam Raimi for Fox Network,M.A.N.T.I.S.distinguished itself from the rest of the superhero projects during the 1990s by featuring an African American lead. Its bold and progressive premise and a strong performance by Carl Lumbly, paired with the thrilling action sequences and a socially conscious perspective should have made it a fan favorite. But the series was canceled after just one season because it started leaning more towards fantasy than realism.
5‘Automan’ (1983 – 1984)
A live-action superhero TV show that remains forgotten because of how poorly it has aged,Automancenters around Walter Nebicher, a police computer expert who created an artificially intelligent crime-fighting program named Automan, which transforms into a holographic version of itself and manifests as a superhero with shocking powers, including the power to generate a holographic car named Cursor. Together, Walter and Automan fight crime in Los Angeles.
The Pioneering Sci-Fi/Superhero Hybrid
A delightful and quirky show thatcombines buddy-cop dynamics with sci-fi and action,Automanwas created by Glen A. Larson. It was a true product of the era; it embraced the boundless potential of evolving technology, put it into use through special effects, but still maintained a playful charm. Though the series was short-lived, Automan surprisingly encompassed a lot in 13 episodes and churned curiosity among fans of classic TV.
4‘The Gifted’ (2017 – 2019)
The Gifted
Set in an alternate timeline to the X-Men film series,The Giftedintroduces us to a world where the X-Men have vanished and the government has turned against its own people. The Strucker family, particularly, finds their lives upended when they discover that their teenage children have mutant abilities. They are forced to go on the run and join forces with an underground network of fellow mutants who attempt to survive and uncover the truth about the disappeared X-Men.
A Dramatic X-Men Spin-Off
Co-directed by Bryan Singer and produced by Matt Nix,The Giftedis a grounded, refreshing, and character-driven take on theX-Menmythology. Instead of focusing on the larger crime-solving narrative, it offers an intimate look at the struggles of an ordinary family when it is thrust against extraordinary odds. With its impressive ensemble and compelling characters, the series developed a subtle following that parted ways after two seasons.
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3‘Inhumans’ (2017)
After being introduced in theAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,theInhumansteam returned to the MCU in greater capacity with their own show. Its plot revolved around the titular royal family, a race of superpowered beings who live in isolation on the Moon. When a coup led by Maximus, who usurps his brother, King Black Bolt, is thrown, it forces Medusa, Karnak, and Gorgon, to escape to Earth and adapt to human society while also waiting to reclaim what’s rightfully theirs.
An Ambitious yet Flawed Adaptation
Inhumanshad the potential to be a major hit, especially because it was met with such enthusiasm and appreciation when it was introduced. With its many ties to the MCU, it could have genuinely delivered a fine blend of family drama, high-stakes action, and cosmic mythology tropes. However,the series was criticized for being boring, for the uneven storytelling and dull direction, which ledMutant Xto fade into obscurity.
2‘No Ordinary Family’ (2010 – 2011)
No Ordinary Family
Created by Greg Berlanti for ABC,No Ordinary Familyrevolves around the seemingly ordinary lives of the Powell family, who have gained superpowers after surviving a mysterious plane crash in the Amazon. The patriarch, Jim, gains super strength, while his wife, Stephanie, develops the power of super speed. Their children, Daphne and JJ, discover remarkable gifts as well – telepathy and accelerated intelligence.
Heartwarming Superhero Family Drama
The show, which ran for one season before being canceled, mostly consisted of episodes where the Powells would grapple with their powers and navigate personal dynamics, growth, and fight the growing threats around them. What made it stand out was the procedural narrative and watching them work as a unit instead of individual heroes. The show deserves a rewatch for balancing superhero action with relatable family drama.
1‘Human Target’ (2010 – 2011)
Human Target
Human Targetfollows Christopher Chance, a skilled private contractor and bodyguard who offers a unique form of protection to high-stakes clients who feel like they’re in danger: he integrates himself into their lives and becomes the “human target” to draw out any potential threat. Chance is accompanied by his savvy business partner, Winston, and tech expert Guerrero, who uses an array of skills for the missions.
Stylish Blend of Action and Intrigue
However unconventional it may seem when within the superhero genre,Human Targetended up weaving a narrative filled with elements of suspense, espionage, character drama, and old-school adventure. It’sbased on the DC Comics character of the same name, who is brought to life by Mark Valley, alongside Chi McBride and Jackie Earle Haley. The lead performance is charming and so are the visuals. Human Target ran for two seasons on Fox, but it was always underrated and is a must-watch now for viewers looking for a grounded take on the superhero genre.
