It seems like there's a superhero out there whose superpower is directly tied to getting more comic book programming on our TVs, and we're perfectly fine with that kind of heroism. Cartoon Network announced today that it's expanding upon the fun and exciting DC Super Hero Girls animated shorts and direct-to-DVD features with an official TV series made up of full-length episodes. Because just a little Batgirl is never enough to go around.
Growing up never felt so powerful, and DC Super Hero Girls will continue the adventures of these oft-costumed young women, with some obvious expansions and additions as it morphs from its previous forms into a legitimate series. For one, the character designs will get a refreshing upgrade, and there will be a shake-up on the creative side of things, with only producer Sam Register still attached from the previous series of shorts and the two features. (The second of which, DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games, was released today, May 23.) The new series will be guided by the talented Lauren Faust, who has been a writer, producer and/or designer (among other things) on shows such as The Powerpuff Girls, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Wander Over Yonder and (the one most tethered to this story) DC's Super Best Friends Forever.
No dramatic overhauls in the storytelling department, though we'll obviously see the universe get expanded in all the according ways. Best friends Diana, Kara and Barbara already have a lot to deal with in the outside world, what with saving the planet as the respective heroines Wonder Woman, Supergirl and Batgirl, but what about all of the physical and mental obstacles that come with being a teenager and going to high school? Is having a bunch of gadgets all that useful if Algebra II is one's true nemesis?
Not that we'll only be seeing three of DC Comics' most famous characters on DC Super Hero Girls. There are other fan favorites to be found, such as Harley Quinn, who is actually Barbara's best friend without either realizing they're at justice-based odds with each other. Bumblebee and Katana will be back in this universe, too, as will a bunch of those icky boys. Viewers can look forward to seeing some new arrivals, too, from Green Lantern Jessica Cruz and Zatanna.
Unfortunately, it's unclear if the new show will keep all or any of the former cast members. One would hope so, since there were a ton of talented people involved, such as Tara Strong, Mae Whitman, and current Walking Dead star Khary Payton. You can hear some of them in the episode below!
In case you didn't have enough shows about superpowered teams to get excited about, here's a quick rundown of similar series on the way: DC Super Hero Girls (obviously), Young Justice Season 3, The Defenders, Inhumans, New Warriors, The Gifted, Runaways and possibly more. No complaints here, though.
At this point, exact dates for a premiere can only be known by someone with access to future knowledge. (Barry Allen isn't around, right? Sweet.) Still, expect to find DC Super Hero Girls hitting Cartoon Network in 2018. In the meantime, use our finale rundown to stay current with what's ending soon, and you can check out our summer TV schedule to see all the shows hitting the primetime hours in the coming months.
