DC Comics boasts one of the greatest rosters of superheroes in all of pop culture. Although the universe is mostly composed of earthly heroes, it also has an incredible assortment of heroes who come from different roots. Many of these heroes have even held their own ongoing titles and have contributed to the most successful comic book runs in history.
These unique DC heroes have proven to be some of the most courageous and "human" characters around, even among A-listers. From animals to androids, the world of DC is a testament to the fact that heroism comes in all forms and isn't confined to any one template.
10 Red Tornado Is The Android Hero With A Heart Of Gold
The android hero of the Justice League and JSA, Red Tornado was created by Doctor T. O. Morrow to be a super villain, but was merged with a hero. The origins of the hero differ. At one time he was the sentience of the Tornado Champion of Rann but is more recently an air elemental.
Just as Swamp Thing is charged with protection of the Green, so too is Red Tornado charged with protecting the environment. The hero can create cyclones and alter weather patterns. Although an android, Red Tornado has sentience and feels emotions as much as other heroes do.
9 Detective Chimp Is One Of DC's Greatest Mystery Solvers
Bobo the Detective Chimp is a genius level chimpanzee, one with detective skills that match even those of Batman himself. In recent years, Bobo has become a more dysfunctional hero racked with guilt and a tendency to drown his sorrows.
However, Bobo is still a heroic figure and serves as one of the smartest members of the Justice League Dark — a mystical counterpart to the main team. Recently charged as the Nightmaster, Bobo the Detective Chimp has experienced a great redemption arc and helped defeat the Upside Down Man.
8 Etrigan Is A Demon From Hell In The Body Of An Arthurian Knight
The demon from Hell merged into the body of an Arthurian knight, Etrigan is a rhyming demon who can be summoned by his host, Jason Blood, when needed. While he's shown himself to have no core allegiances, Etrigan often helps the heroes when needed.
Best seen when working with the Justice League Dark, Etrigan is guided to do good by his human host. This demonic antihero remains one of Jack Kirby's better creations from his time writing for DC Comics.
7 Kilowog Is One Of The Green Lantern Corps' Finest Warriors
By far one of the greatest Green Lanterns of the corps, Kilowog is a seasoned warrior and mentor to some of the team's new recruits. Known for his imposing and muscular stature, his tough guy persona, and his signature "poozer" term, Kilowog is as recognizable as any Green Lantern.
The native of Bolovax Vik, Kilowog is also an intelligent scientist and was trained by the hardened Green Lantern Ermey. His home world destroyed, Kilowog has dedicated his life to his duties in the GLC and is a good friend to the likes of Hal Jordan and Guy Gardner.
6 Lobo Is The Main Man Of The DC Universe
DC's loudmouthed bounty hunter antihero, Lobo never stops reminding the other heroes that he's the "Main Man." Traveling the galaxy on his punk rock-inspired space bike, Lobo is prone to being more heavy-handed with his enemies, often using deadly force to win.
Although he has historically been a more antagonistic figure in the world of Superman, Lobo has proven himself capable of fighting for the good guys. Even enjoying several stints with the Justice League, the galaxy's greatest bounty hunter is a force to be reckoned with.
5 Spectre Is The Living Embodiment Of Vengeance
Using the body of detective Jim Corrigan, the Spectre has exacted vengeance on evildoers across the world, especially violent criminals. The DC universe's spirit of vengeance, Spectre was an original member of the Golden Age Justice Society of America team.
The biblical-inspired hero may have a darker tone, but the Spectre's a force for justice in the world. He even played a role in resurrecting Hal Jordan's Green Lantern. Although he has his roots in the JSA, Spectre's best stories have seen him on a solo journey or traveling with Phantom Stranger.
4 Swamp Thing Is The Protector Of The Green
Once a man by the name of Alec Holland, the Swamp Thing serves as the sentient plant-based being and Protector of the Green. When Holland was killed and fell into a Louisiana swamp, the supernatural habitat created the mossy hero with his memory.
Although there have been other Swamp Things, both past and present, Holland is the fan-favorite iteration for good reason. The writings of Len Wein and Alan Moore give Holland one of the greatest epics in comics, exploring his search for a cure and the revelation of his new duty.
3 Martian Manhunter's Is A Refugee From A Dead Planet
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The last of the Martian species, J'onn J'onzz is a refugee from the Red Planet and has much in common with Superman. Sharing the Man of Steel's flight and strength, the Martian Manhunter also has the ability to change his shape, become intangible, and read minds.
It's no exaggeration to say that J'onn J'onzz is almost as powerful as Superman. The Martian Manhunter has served as one of the Justice League's best leaders. The founding JLA member works best on a team, but his solo adventures have proven every bit as fun.
2 Wonder Woman Is A Half-God Amazon Princess
Although she may appear as human as anyone else, Diana Prince is actually a half-god Amazon from the island nation, Themyscira. Armed with her sword, magical armor, and Lasso of Truth, Diana is one of DC's "Trinity," alongside Batman and Superman.
Daughter of Hippolyta, Diana spent most of her life growing up on Paradise Island (Themyscira), where she trained to be a warrior princess. Created by William Moulton Marston, Wonder Woman is a Golden Age hero and a founding member of the Justice League of America.
1 Superman Is DC's Greatest Hero
Clark Kent has shown himself to be as great a representative of humanity as any hero. The last son of Krypton, Clark was jettisoned into the stars by his parents as their world died. Now the Man of Steel, Superman has become the world's greatest hero.
Recent stories have portrayed Superman settling down with a family. As the years have gone by, Superman has become one of the most grounded and human heroes around, despite being the world's most powerful alien.