Arrow: 5 Reasons Why Oliver Queen Is The Most Compelling Superhero On Television
2. He Earned His Title
Oliver may have started out his vigilante career as a murderer, but his journey through the first three seasons of the show has seen him earn the title of “hero” in a way that no other vigilante in The CW’s DC universe has yet accomplished.
With his discipline, dedication to enhancing his abilities, and willingness to sacrifice, Oliver is the masked CW vigilante equivalent of the adult trying to eat his own meal while still keeping an eye on the hyperactive tykes at the kiddie table.
Unlike Barry Allen as the Flash, Oliver is able to focus on an endgame. Unlike Laurel Lance as Black Canary, Oliver had the skills and fortitude for the job before he dared endanger innocents by hitting the streets. Unlike Ray Palmer as Atom, Oliver knows his limits and abilities. Heck, unlike Roy as Arsenal, Oliver is tall enough to reach the top shelves of the Arrow cave.
The Arrow will never be a hero who receives a key to the city or cuts ribbons at ceremonies. He will always be the good guy who started out a serial killer. Instead, Oliver is a man willing to do what is necessary for the greater good. Whether in green leather or League of Assassins black or just gloriously shirtless, Oliver has earned the title of "hero" despite his many shades of grey.