A retired superhero returns to action. Years have passed since Black Lightning was seen on the streets fighting crime, but the rise of a criminal gang forces Jefferson Pierce to put on the suit again. Enjoy the trailer for Black Lightning, the new DC Comics series.
A New Kind of Superhero Story
Based on the DC Comics character of the same name, Black Lightning (real name Jefferson Pierce) was one of the first African-American superheroes, debuting in 1977 thanks to writer Tony Isabella and artist Trevor Von Eeden. And since the television norm today is that every superhero has their own series (or is part of one), Black Lightning couldn't be left behind. This time we aren't dealing with the typical story that starts by telling the hero's origin; instead, the series' plot presents a retired Black Lightning who returns to action after the emergence of The One Hundred, a criminal gang that endangers the community.
This change in the plot allows us to enjoy a more adult story, emphasizing community responsibility and civic commitment, where Pierce's greatest challenge will be balancing the responsibilities of his actions both as a family man and when he puts on the superhero suit. The trailer shows Pierce using the Black Lightning suit along with his electric powers, as well as a glimpse of his enemy Tobias Whale, the leader of The One Hundred.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/IxcX2qVOnoMNot Part of the Arrowverse (Yet)
Although it will be broadcast on The CW, Black Lightning will not be part of the Arrowverse for the moment. But that doesn't rule out that in the future we might see him in a special with Arrow, Flash, and Supergirl. Everything suggests we'll have to wait to see how the audience receives this new series and if the reception is positive enough to integrate him into the Arrowverse.
Cast and Premiere
The series stars Cress Williams as Jefferson Pierce / Black Lightning, along with China Anne McClain, Nafessa Williams, Christine Adams, James Remar, Damon Gupton, and Marvin "Krondon" Jones III. Produced by Berlanti Productions and DC Entertainment, Black Lightning premieres on January 16, 2018 on The CW.
