10 Greatest DC Superheroes Of All Time
4. The Flash (Barry Allen)
From Jay Garrick to Wally West, many men have adopted the moniker of The Flash in DC Comics history, but none are more iconic than the second Flash, Barry Allen. The Scarlet Speedster is one of DC's most intriguing (and underrated) characters and has also been a key player in the company's most historic stories.
Upon being struck by lightning, Barry woke to find himself changed for the better. Blessed with the gift of super-speed, the forensic scientist made it his mission to protect Central City - speeding down the streets clad in a red mask and bodysuit, known as The Flash.
Due to his abilities, The Flash opened up a lot of opportunities for DC, allowing them to rely on time travel-themed plots and introduce readers to the multiverse - which inevitably led to the acclaimed Crisis On Infinite Earths arc in 1985. Though the events of that comic saw the character retired from the main continuity for over 23 years, he would make his triumphant return in 2009 - getting involved in some huge arcs, specifically the game-changing Flashpoint.
Thanks to Grant Gustin's strong performance on The CW's Flash TV series, and Ezra Miller's jovial turn in film Justice League, The Flash has received a lot more recognition in recent years. Let's hope that this success continues into the future because the Scarlet Speedster is undoubtedly one of DC's richest characters.