Since its debut in 2001, Smallville has significantly influenced the superhero television landscape, setting a precedent that many subsequent series have sought to replicate. By shifting the focus from traditional superhero costumes to character-driven narratives, the show resonated with audiences and reshaped the genre. Here, we explore ten superhero series aspiring to succeed like Smallville, each reflecting its unique storytelling approach while borrowing elements from the iconic show.
1. Birds of Prey (2002–2003)
Birds of Prey emerged as an early attempt to capture the spirit of Smallville. Set in Gotham City, the series followed Helena Kyle and Dinah Lance as they navigated their legacies. It emphasized themes of personal identity and secrets, albeit with a darker tone than Smallville’s optimistic atmosphere. While it struggled with execution and lasted only one season, the show remains an interesting example of the Smallville template adapted to a different narrative.
2. The Flash (2014-2023)
The Flash debuted with a modernized version of Smallville’s DNA. Utilizing a “freak of the week” format, it explored the journey of Barry Allen, a hero learning responsibility amid personal loss. With a blend of humor and romance, the series highlighted the importance of relationships among Team Flash, paralleling Smallville’s character-driven focus. Despite its later emphasis on comic book spectacle, the early seasons effectively mirrored Smallville’s emotional depth.
3. Aquaman (Pilot) (2006)
The unaired Aquaman pilot, developed by Smallville creators Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, closely adhered to the original show’s ethos. Featuring Justin Hartley as Arthur Curry, it showcased a young man’s journey to discover his powers and royal lineage. While strong visuals characterized the pilot, it ultimately didn’t transition into a full series, marking a missed opportunity to expand on Smallville’s narrative style.
4. Titans (2018-2023)
Titans represents a bold evolution of the Smallville formula, targeting a more adult audience. The series followed young heroes like Dick Grayson and Raven, framing superpowers as sources of trauma. Though it retained the character-driven nature of Smallville, it deviated with a darker tone, emphasizing violence and moral ambiguity over the original’s optimism.
5. Arrow (2012-2020)
Arrow successfully updated the Smallville model for a mature audience. The series chronicled Oliver Queen’s transformation into Green Arrow, incorporating similar elements such as dual identities and emotional conflict. Arrow prioritized serialized storytelling and long-term consequences, contributing to a larger shared universe that Smallville foreshadowed but never fully realized.
6. My Adventures with Superman (2023-)
My Adventures with Superman, while animated, draws heavily from Smallville’s foundational themes. The series focuses on a young Clark Kent as he navigates love and responsibility. The portrayal of emotional growth and relationships evokes the depth that characterized Smallville, marking it as a spiritual successor in a new format.
7. Superman & Lois (2021–2024)
Superman & Lois offers a continuation of Clark Kent’s story years after Smallville, diving into the themes of family and legacy. Returning to Smallville’s setting, the series emphasizes Clark’s growth as a father while maintaining the emotional weight that resonated in the original show. It captures Smallville’s spirit while presenting a more mature perspective.
8. Gotham (2014-2019)
Gotham explored the formative years of Bruce Wayne, utilizing a Smallville-like model to focus on character development and slow-burning arcs. Balanced between coming-of-age themes and the darker elements of the Batman lore, it addressed trauma and identity. Although it diverged into a grimmer narrative, its core approach reflected Smallville’s legacy.
9. Kyle XY (2006-2009)
Kyle XY may not feature traditional superheroes, yet its storytelling closely aligns with Smallville’s. The series followed a mysterious boy grappling with extraordinary abilities and identity. It highlighted similar themes of family and self-discovery, showcasing how Smallville’s influence extended beyond conventional superhero narratives.
10. Teen Wolf (2011-2017)
Teen Wolf modernized supernatural storytelling through the lens of high school drama, mirroring Smallville’s structure in many ways. Scott McCall’s evolution from ordinary teen to reluctant hero echoed Clark Kent’s journey. Despite a darker tone and horror elements, the show emphasized friendship and loyalty, showcasing the broader impact Smallville had on genre television.
In summary, Smallville’s legacy remains evident across various superhero series, each striving to capture its essence. By prioritizing character development and emotional narratives, these shows reveal the lasting impact of Smallville on the evolution of superhero storytelling.
