2014 was a most excellent year for comic book shows. Not only did Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Walking Dead, Arrow, and several animated shows return with brand new seasons, but our eyes and ears were also treated to a number of new live-action and animated shows like Constantine, Gotham and Star Wars Rebels. From lighthearted fun to dark dramas to epic adventures, there really was a TV series for everyone to follow this year. It's crazy to think even more comic book shows are on the way, isn't it? Here's hoping they're great additions to the selection of comic book shows and not all kinds of mediocre!
Several of these shows had terrific episodes this year, but we wanted to know which ones you enjoyed the most. Did a new show win you over more than a preexisting one? Do you think one show was clearly more entertaining than the rest? The Comic Vine community has voted for 3 simple yet very important categories (best live-action show, best animated show, best lead character) and the results are now in. Let's see which shows and characters the voters loved the most, shall we?
Favorite Live-Action Show
Earning 38% of the votes, The Flash wins! In 2014, The Flash made its debut on The CW and aired 9 episodes, developing the scarlet speedster's origin story while also fleshing out the supporting characters and introducing a variety of villains. The mid-season finale offered an exciting and brutal conflict with Reverse-Flash and finally gave us a good look at Firestorm. Plus, it teased Gorilla Grodd and the Rogues!
Runner-up: Arrow (19%)
Favorite Animated Show
Receiving 23% of the votes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles wins! In 2014, the Nick show wrapped up its second season by having the Kraang and Shredder team-up and unleash a huge attack on New York. The invasion brought about some emotional developments and showed a lot of love to Leonardo's classic micro series issue. The attack in the Big Apple forced the Ninja Turtles out of the city and they've been spending the third season in Northampton, battling various mutants and totally out-there creatures.
Runner-up: Star Wars Rebels (21%)
Favorite Lead Character
With 31% of the votes, Barry Allen, a.k.a. the Flash, wins! A tragic origin story may tear away at someone on the inside, but Barry doesn't let the death of his mother bring him down and fill his mind with twisted and depressing thoughts. Instead, the terrible incident motivates him to makes sure he's always fast enough to save someone when they're in danger. He may not always succeed, but that won't stop him from trying. He continues to push himself harder and harder, using his speed in new ways to combat whatever threat may arise in Central City. Sure, he may let his temper explode from time to time, but he's a passionate guy who always means well. Simply put, he's a lovable hero and it's tough not to root for him.
Runner-up: John Constantine (22%)
Wow, it looks like the community thinks The Flash is off to a really great start, don't they? The combination of an uplifting tone, plenty of humor and the constant display of exciting powers helped the show stand apart from its competition. While it does often address more serious issues and tackle darker themes, it also always manages to dish out plenty of fun and really seems to embrace the Flash's mythos. Even in an overly dramatic episode, there's sure to be a few moments that'll make you smile. Here's hoping the upcoming episodes continue to win us over. Thanks for voting and we'll see you next December for the second edition of the Comic Vine TV Awards!