New show ideas to fill 'Graysons' TV slot on CW

By: Paresh Jha

Posted: 12/2/08

"Graysons" bashers everywhere, rejoice: the show was cancelled, which means a timeslot is open for a new show on the CW. It is time we put forth some more good alternatives to "Graysons."

"Green Arrow"

"Smallville" is on its eighth season and has introduced plenty of characters and concepts worthy of some spinoffs. In season six they introduced Oliver Queen (Green Arrow) to the Smallville mythos. Green Arrow is essentially your modern day Robin Hood/crime fighter. His entrance into Clark Kent's world was good for the both the storyline and the ratings. Actor Justin Hartley put in an extremely charismatic and genuine performance as the billionaire green archer and his role was so well received that they just recently made him a season regular. With his stock as an actor increasing and "Smallville" on its one or two final seasons, it may be time to give the CW a solo "Green Arrow" series.

"Gotham"

This could be a series of epic proportions. Any fan of DC comics knows that so much happens and comes out of Gotham that the storyline possibilities are essentially endless. With Warner Bros. weary of using Batman on the tube they can simply just use him as an external force present in the world but never really seen on screen. Other characters like Nightwing, Robin, Oracle, Gordon, and Huntress could be present on the show. But probably the most intriguing route to take this show is to have it focused on the Gotham police force. Think of it like "NYPD Blue," but with crazier threats and widespread corruption. Having the added benefit of using the DC universe rogues gallery from time to time would make for some extremely enjoyable television. Who knows, maybe Green Arrow and Clark Kent could even make a few guest appearances.

"Green Lantern"

The story of Hal Jordan's receiving the powerful green ring from the Guardians of the Universe sounds extremely corny I know. But it is an extremely compelling story of love, tragedy, betrayal and courage. The show would be wise to chronicle the early years of Jordan starting from the point when he gets the ring. The show could even utilize Jordan's friendship with Oliver Queen from the comics and have a couple of crossover adventures that would be a ratings frenzy. Having the series go on to even when Jordan is corrupted and becomes a villain would be make for some really heartbreaking television.

"Justice"

The mother of all comic book related live action shows. "Smallville" already introduced a young Justice League with Green Arrow, Impulse, Cyborg, and Aquaman so it would only make sense to run with that idea. With that template the CW would have the freedom of introducing new characters as long as the series was running. Imagine them meeting more heroes as time went on and even forming the ultimate Justice League with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman provided no legal issues are surrounding the use of those characters. With the Justice League movie all but dead in production right now it would be an excellent way for average viewers to get glimpses of these great characters and understand their appeal. The most interesting aspect of the show could focus on how the world grows to accept these people as their guardians.