Are you a fan of DC Comics, but don't know where to start with their TV universe? Look no further than the Arrowverse!
The Arrowverse is a shared universe of TV shows based on DC Comics characters, spanning across several networks including The CW, CBS, and DC Universe. It all started with "Arrow," which premiered in 2012 and starred Stephen Amell as Oliver Queen, aka the Green Arrow. From there, the universe grew to include "The Flash," "Supergirl," "Legends of Tomorrow," "Black Lightning," and "Batwoman."
But with so many shows and crossovers, it can be intimidating to jump in. Here's a beginner's guide to the Arrowverse:
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Start with "Arrow": As the first show in the Arrowverse, "Arrow" sets the foundation for the other shows. It follows Oliver Queen as he returns to Starling City after being stranded on a deserted island for five years, and becomes a vigilante to save his city. "Arrow" also introduces key characters like Felicity Smoak and John Diggle, who play major roles in the rest of the universe.
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"The Flash": "The Flash" premiered in 2014 and follows Barry Allen (Grant Gustin), who gains superhuman speed after a laboratory accident. The show explores the science behind his powers and introduces the concept of the multiverse, which plays a major role in later seasons.
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"Supergirl": Originally airing on CBS before moving to The CW, "Supergirl" follows Kara Danvers (Melissa Benoist), Superman's cousin, as she comes to terms with her powers and fights against villains threatening Earth. The show also features appearances from other DC Comics characters like Martian Manhunter and Lex Luthor.
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"Legends of Tomorrow": This show brings together a team of superheroes and villains, led by time traveler Rip Hunter (Arthur Darvill), to stop a major villain from destroying the timeline. "Legends of Tomorrow" features several characters from "Arrow" and "The Flash," as well as new characters like the Atom (Brandon Routh) and White Canary (Caity Lotz).
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"Black Lightning": "Black Lightning" follows Jefferson Pierce (Cress Williams), who retired his superhero alter ego years ago to become a school principal. But when a local gang threatens his community, he has to suit up again as Black Lightning to protect his family and city.
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"Batwoman": The newest addition to the Arrowverse, "Batwoman" premiered in 2019 and follows Kate Kane (Ruby Rose), Bruce Wayne's cousin, as she takes up the mantle of Batwoman to protect Gotham City.
The Arrowverse also features several crossover events, where characters from different shows team up to fight a common enemy. The most recent crossover, "Crisis on Infinite Earths," featured characters from all the shows and even some surprise appearances from other DC Comics adaptations. But don't worry if you're not caught up with every show before a crossover event – they usually provide enough context to follow along.
So what are you waiting for? Start watching the Arrowverse and join the ranks of DC Comics fans in enjoying these thrilling TV shows.