Barry Allen / The Flash
Appeared in: The Flash
When Barry Allen first made his debut on Arrow, it was clear that the Arrowverse had found its next superhero. Barry was already a hero before he was struck by lightning, with goals and desires that consisted of nothing but helping people, solving crime, and doing some good. So when that bolt of lightning chose him, he had the tools to put all of that into action.
The Flash is the Arrowverse’s most veteran superhero as he headlined his own TV series for nine seasons. Grant Gustin’s infectiously enjoyable performance is a large part of the show’s success, as he brought Barry to life in a way that was just so effortlessly charming.
There are layers to Barry’s character too. He wanted to be a hero to save his mom and free his dad from prison. While he wasn’t able to do one of those things, he got the closure he needed and knew that he could honor his mother’s memory by being the good person she raised him to be. He did that, and so much more, saving Central City, the universe, and the whole multiverse whenever he needed to. All of that, and his beautiful relationship with Iris West, made him one of the most beloved characters in TV history.
Verdict: BEST