10 Youngest Heroes In DC Movies & Shows Ranked By Age

The DC Universe has proffered countless superheroes, but some of the most impressive have been its youngest heroes. Many movies and TV shows from the DCU timeline have portrayed teenage or even pre-teen characters stepping up to fight crime alongside older heroes. Whether trained vigilantes or powered beings with incredible abilities, these young heroes prove that age is no barrier to heroism. Their youth often brings unique challenges, from balancing school life to dealing with personal trauma, making their journeys even more compelling.

The age at which a character becomes a hero can greatly influence their story and development. Young heroes in DC movies and TV shows often face struggles different from their adult counterparts. Many start out as sidekicks, training under seasoned vigilantes like Batman, while others take on the mantle of a hero independently. Some of the most iconic are expected to play a huge role in the DCU’s future, particularly Damian Wayne who stars in the DCU’s The Brave and The Bold.

10

Clark Kent/Superman

15 In Smallville

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Clark Kent’s early years are explored in Smallville, where he is portrayed as a 15-year-old freshman at the start of the series. Unlike traditional Superman stories where Clark fully embraces his heroism as an adult, Smallville takes a grounded approach, showing his struggles with adolescence while slowly growing into his future role as the Man of Steel. Though he doesn’t officially don the Superman mantle until much later, Clark frequently uses his powers to help people, even when it puts him at risk of exposure.

Played by Tom Welling, Clark’s journey is defined by his moral dilemmas and personal losses, making him one of DC’s most compelling young heroes. His early heroics include saving friends from freak accidents, stopping meteor-enhanced threats, and learning the responsibility that comes with his Kryptonian abilities. All of this occurs before he ever dons the iconic cape.

9

Dick Grayson/Robin

14 In The Batman

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The 2004 animated series The Batman introduced a younger take on Dick Grayson, portraying him as a 14-year-old when he first becomes Robin. This version of Dick is a circus acrobat whose parents are tragically murdered, leading Bruce Wayne to take him in as his ward. Robin was previously barred from appearing due to rights issues with Teen Titans, with Batgirl being established in first season 3.

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Dick Grayson was officially introduced in The Batman season, learning to find his way within a new home and Bat-Family. The show depicts his development from a grieving child into a formidable hero who can hold his own in battle. Despite his age, he quickly becomes an essential partner to Batman, bringing humor and energy to the dark world of Gotham while proving his worth as a capable young crimefighter.

8

Billy Batson/Shazam

14 In Shazam!

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One of the youngest yet most powerful heroes in the DC Universe, Billy Batson is just 14 years old when he becomes Shazam in the 2019 film of the same name. Chosen by the ancient wizard Shazam, Billy gains the ability to transform into an adult superhero with incredible strength, speed, and magical abilities. Played by Asher Angel in his teenage form and Zachary Levi in his superhero form, Billy’s journey revolves around his struggle with abandonment issues and his search for a real family.

Unlike many young heroes who undergo extensive training, Billy is thrown into heroism overnight. He has to learn how to handle his new powers on the fly. His youthful personality shines through even in his adult form, making for humorous moments as he figures out his role as a hero while still being very much a kid at heart.

7

Dick Grayson/Robin

12-13 In Batman: The Animated Series

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Batman: The Animated Series presents one of the youngest versions of Dick Grayson in mainstream DC media, portraying him as around 12-13 years old when he first appears as Robin. Unlike later versions, this Robin is depicted as a highly intelligent and skilled acrobat who has been training under Batman for years. While he shares a deep father-son relationship with Bruce Wayne, Dick still has a youthful, rebellious streak, often questioning Batman’s methods.

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This version of Robin plays a crucial role in multiple episodes, proving his ability to take down criminals with precision while still retaining his lighthearted nature. His age makes his heroic journey even more impressive, as he faces off against some of Gotham’s most dangerous villains while still attending school. His arc eventually leads to him growing older and evolving into Nightwing in The New Batman Adventures, exploring his development beyond his early years.

6

Damian Wayne/Robin

12 In Harley Quinn

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Damian Wayne, Bruce Wayne’s son and the fifth Robin, appears in Harley Quinn, where he is depicted as a 12-year-old eager to take on the mantle of Robin. Unlike more serious interpretations, this version of Damian leans heavily into comedic exaggeration, portraying him as both hilariously overconfident and deeply insecure. Damian is presented as a spoilt brat, raised by a distracted Batman.

Damian’s desire to be seen as a worthy hero is a major part of his arc, particularly in contrast to Batman’s reluctance to let him join the action. While still showcasing his signature arrogance and deadly training, Harley Quinn reimagines Damian with a more childish, petulant personality, emphasizing his immaturity. This take on the character is a stark departure from the typical brooding and disciplined assassin-in-training, making him one of the most amusingly youthful iterations of Robin in DC’s on-screen history.

5

Cassandra Cain

12 In Birds Of Prey

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In Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn), Cassandra Cain is introduced as a 12-year-old pickpocket who unexpectedly becomes the key to the film’s conflict. Unlike her comic book counterpart – who is a deadly, silent assassin – this version of Cassandra is a street-smart, talkative kid trying to survive in Gotham. Her youthful recklessness lands her in trouble when she steals a valuable diamond from Black Mask’s gang.

This sets off a chain of events that forces Harley Quinn and the Birds of Prey to protect her. Despite not being a fighter like in the comics, Cassandra’s wit and resilience make her a central figure in the film. While some were disappointed by the drastic changes to her character, this younger, more vulnerable take on Cassandra emphasizes her potential, leaving room for growth in future adaptations.

4

Dick Grayson/Robin

10-12 In The Lego Batman Movie

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In The Lego Batman Movie, Dick Grayson is portrayed as an excitable, eager-to-please child, somewhere between 10 and 12 years old. Unlike the traditional origin of Robin, where Bruce Wayne adopts an orphaned circus acrobat, this version of Dick is unknowingly adopted by Batman when Bruce absentmindedly agrees to take him in during a social event. His wide-eyed enthusiasm and relentless optimism contrast sharply with Batman’s brooding personality, making for a hilarious dynamic.

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Though young and inexperienced, Dick proves himself as a hero by wholeheartedly embracing the Robin identity in The Lego Batman Movie. His childlike innocence and unwavering faith in Batman’s goodness play a crucial role in helping the Dark Knight learn the value of teamwork and family. While humorous in nature, this portrayal captures the essence of Robin’s role as Batman’s lighthearted and energetic counterpart.

3

Damian Wayne/Robin

10 In Son Of Batman

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In Son of Batman, Damian Wayne is introduced as a highly trained but headstrong 10-year-old who has spent his entire life being raised by the League of Assassins. Unlike more comedic versions of the character, this Damian is dead serious about proving himself as a warrior, often challenging Batman’s authority and questioning his moral code. His lethal upbringing under Ra’s al Ghul has made him far more dangerous than most children his age, but his father’s influence slowly begins to steer him toward a more heroic path.

Despite his arrogance, Damian’s journey in Son of Batman highlights his internal struggle between his assassin instincts and his potential as a hero. His small stature and youthful appearance are deceptive, as he proves to be an exceptionally skilled fighter. This makes him one of the most formidable young heroes in the DC animated movie lineup.

2

Damian Wayne/Robin

8 In Merry Little Batman

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Merry Little Batman presents a much younger take on Damian Wayne, depicting him as an 8-year-old aspiring hero left alone in Wayne Manor on Christmas Eve. This version of Damian is significantly more innocent and wide-eyed than his usual depictions, leaning into a fun, family-friendly adventure reminiscent of Home Alone. Rather than being a hardened assassin, he is a child who idolizes his father and dreams of following in his footsteps as Gotham’s protector.

When villains threaten to disrupt the holiday, Damian rises to the occasion, using his wits and the resources of Wayne Manor to defend his home. While still possessing some of the confidence and determination seen in other versions, this younger Damian is much more relatable as an excitable kid. The result is one of the most charming and lighthearted portrayals of Robin to date.

1

Young Bruce Wayne

8 In Gotham

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Gotham explores Bruce Wayne’s early years, beginning with his traumatic loss of his parents at age 8. Unlike most Batman adaptations, which skip over his childhood, Gotham delves deep into Bruce’s formative years, showcasing how he gradually evolves into the man who will become the Dark Knight. Despite his young age, Bruce is already displaying signs of the detective skills, intelligence, and determination that will define him as Batman.

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Young Bruce’s relationship with Alfred plays a crucial role in shaping his development throughout Gotham, as the loyal butler pushes him to overcome his fears and channel his grief into something greater. While he is far from becoming a costumed hero in season 1, the series carefully builds his character over time. It offers one of the most fleshed-out portrayals of young Bruce Wayne in DC history.

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    Smallville

    TV-PG

    Romance

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    Drama

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    8/10

    144

    9.1/10

    Release Date

    2001 – 2010

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      Sam Jones III

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      Annette O’Toole

    Smallville is a Superhero television series based on the Superman Comic Book series created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. This television release was developed by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar. The premise revolves around a young Clark Kent as he arrives on Earth and attempts to live his life while simultaneously keeping his friends, family, and those around him safe thanks to his superpowers.

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    10

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    The Batman

    TV-Y7

    Animation

    Mystery

    Action

    Science Fiction

    8/10

    Release Date

    2004 – 2007

    Network

    The WB, The CW

    Directors

    Brandon Vietti, Seung Eun Kim, Anthony Chun, Sam Liu, Christopher Berkeley

    Writers

    Steven Melching, Greg Weisman, Joseph Kuhr, Adam Beechen, Alexx Van Dyne, Michael Jelenic, Stan Berkowitz, Christopher L. Yost, Greg Klein, Paul Dini, Jane Espenson, Tom Pugsley, Paul Giacoppo, Alan Burnett, Steve Cuden, David Slack, Bob Goodman

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      rino romano

      Smoke (voice)

    • Headshot Of Ming-Na Wen In The Los Angeles premiere of Netflix's 'Shirley'

      Ming-Na Wen

      Virginia / Georgia (voice)

    Acclaimed DC animated season The Batman sees billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne (Rino Romano) pull on the famous cowl and cape as Gotham’s iconic protector. Set primarily during Batman’s early years, he operates more in the shadows as a vigilante, and facing off against new versions of legendary DC villains like The Joker, Penguin, Clayface, and Mr Freeze.

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    5

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    Batman: The Animated Series

    TV-PG

    Animation

    Drama

    Mystery

    Action

    Science Fiction

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    9/10

    74

    9.2/10

    Release Date

    1992 – 1994

    Network

    FOX, Fox Kids

    Showrunner

    Bruce Timm

    Directors

    Kevin Altieri, Boyd Kirkland, Frank Paur, Dan Riba, Dick Sebast

    Writers

    Michael Reaves, Brynne Stephens, Randy Rogel, David Wise, Len Wein, Marty Isenberg, Richard Mueller, Sam Graham, Peter Morwood, Dennis O’Neil, Carl Swenson, Beth Bornstein, Steve Hayes, Chris Hubbell, Martin Pasko, Henry Gilroy, Elliot S. Maggin, Eddie Gorodetsky, Diane Duane

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    • Headshot Of Kevin Conroy

      Kevin Conroy

      Batman (voice)

    • Cast Placeholder Image

      Efrem Zimbalist Jr.

      Alfred Pennyworth (voice)

    Batman: The Animated Series follows Bruce Wayne as he assumes the role of the masked vigilante Batman to combat crime in Gotham City. This acclaimed 1992 series explores his dual identity and features an array of iconic villains, while Bruce vows to avenge the murder of his parents.

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    4

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    Harley Quinn

    TV-MA

    Animation

    Comedy

    Sci-Fi & Fantasy

    Action

    Crime

    ScreenRant logo

    9/10

    14

    8/10

    Release Date

    November 29, 2019

    Network

    DC Universe, HBO Max, Max

    Showrunner

    Dean Lorey, Chrissy Pietrosh, Jessica Goldstein

    Directors

    Juan Jose Meza-Leon, Vinton Heuck, Joonki Park, Cecilia Aranovich, Ben Jones, Colin Heck, Tom De Rosier, Brandon McKinney, Frank Marino, Mike Milo, Matt Garofalo, Christina Sotta, Michael Moloney

    Writers

    Tom Hyndman, Sarah Nevada Smith, Jamiesen Borak, Ava Tramer, Connie Shin, Jess Dweck, Jane Becker, Laura Moran, Sabrina Jalees, Jordan Weiss, Jimmy Mosqueda, Rachel Pegram

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    • Headshot Of Kaley Cuoco IN The John Ritter Foundation

      Kaley Cuoco

      Harley Quinn (voice)

    • Headshot Of Lake Bell

      Lake Bell

      Poison Ivy (voice)

    Harley Quinn is a 2019 animated series focusing on the titular character’s evolution after severing ties with the Joker. As she seeks to establish herself as an independent force in Gotham City’s criminal underworld, the film explores her journey toward becoming Gotham’s criminal Queenpin.

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    5

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    Gotham

    Drama

    ScreenRant logo

    5/10

    14

    8.2/10

    Release Date

    2014 – 2018

    Network

    Fox

    Showrunner

    Danny Cannon

    Directors

    Danny Cannon

    Writers

    Bruno Heller

    Cast

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    • Headshot Of Sean Pertwee

      Sean Pertwee

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      Erin Richards

    As a new recruit in Captain Sarah Essen’s Gotham City Police Department, Detective James Gordon is paired with Harvey Bullock to solve one of Gotham’s most high-profile cases ever: the murder of Thomas and Martha Wayne. During his investigation, Gordon meets the Waynes’ son, Bruce, now in the care of his butler Alfred, which further compels Gordon to catch the killer.

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    Shazam!

    PG-13

    Adventure

    Action

    Fantasy

    Superhero

    ScreenRant logo

    7/10

    6.4/10

    Release Date

    April 5, 2019

    Runtime

    132 Minutes

    Director

    David F. Sandberg

    Writers

    Henry Gayden, Darren Lemke, Bill Parker

    Sequel(s)

    Black Adam

    Cast

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    • Headshot OF Zachary Levi

      Zachary Levi

    • Headshot OF Faithe Herman

      Faithe Herman

    We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson’s case, by shouting out one word – SHAZAM! – this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can turn into the adult superhero Shazam. Now, it’s up to him and his foster siblings to save the world from the evil Sins.

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    Birds of Prey

    R

    Adventure

    Crime

    Action

    ScreenRant logo

    8/10

    3.5/10

    Release Date

    February 7, 2020

    Runtime

    109 minutes

    Director

    Cathy Yan

    Writers

    Christina Hodson

    Prequel(s)

    Suicide Squad

    Cast

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    • Cast Placeholder Image

      Jurnee Smollett-Bell

    • Headshot Of Matthew Willig

      Matthew Willig

    Birds of Prey takes place after the original Suicide Squad film and shines the spotlight on Harley Quinn. After being dumped by The Joker, Harley Quinn finds herself on the road to recovery through various comical and destructive (but not to herself) means. Following a stolen diamond and a young pickpocket that has won her over, Quinn is forced to join forces with three vigilante female superheroes – Black Canary, Huntress, and Renee Montoya to save a little girl’s life from the crime lord Roman Sionis, AKA the Black Mask.

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    The Lego Batman Movie

    PG

    Comedy

    Action

    Animation

    ScreenRant logo

    8/10

    8/10

    Release Date

    February 10, 2017

    Runtime

    104 minutes

    Director

    Chris McKay

    Writers

    John Whittington, Jared Stem, Erik Sommers, Seth Grahame-Smith, Chris McKenna

    Franchise(s)

    LEGO Batman, LEGO

    Cast

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    • Headshot Of Will Arnett

      Will Arnett

    • Headshot Of Ralph Fiennes

      Ralph Fiennes

    The LEGO Batman Movie is a spin-off of 2014’s The LEGO Movie, which centers around the titular hero; where after another day in Gotham City goes wrong thanks to the Joker and other fellow DC villains, Batman tells the Joker he’s a pitiful villain, not worth his time and hurts his feelings. Wanting to prove himself to Batman and get his ultimate revenge, Joker concocts an idea that will require the Caped Crusader to learn how to give up the lone vigilante act and recruit the help of allies Robin and Batgirl. 

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    Son of Batman

    PG-13

    Action

    Animation

    Adventure

    5/10

    Release Date

    May 6, 2014

    Runtime

    74 Minutes

    Director

    Ethan Spaulding

    Writers

    Joe R. Lansdale, james robinson, Bob Kane, Grant Morrison

    Cast

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    • Cast Placeholder Image

      Jason O’Mara

      Batman

    • Headshot Of Thomas Gibson In The CBS, The CW & Showtime TCA

      Thomas Gibson

      Deathstroke

    Son of Batman follows Damian Wayne, the young son of Bruce Wayne and Talia al Ghul, as he becomes the new Robin. The film explores Damian’s journey to Gotham City, where he grapples with his complex lineage while aiding Batman in avenging the death of his grandfather, Ra’s al Ghul. As father and son form a tenuous partnership, they confront various adversaries, including Deathstroke.

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    Merry Little Batman

    PG

    Animation

    Action

    Family

    Comedy

    ScreenRant logo

    6/10

    Release Date

    December 8, 2023

    Runtime

    97 Minutes

    Director

    Mike Roth

    Writers

    Morgan Evans, Jase Ricci

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    • Cast Placeholder Image

      Yonas Kibreab

    • Headshot Of Luke Wilson

      Luke Wilson

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Upcoming DC Movie Releases

  • Superman (2025) Official Poster

    Superman

    Release Date

    July 11, 2025

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    Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

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    June 26, 2026

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    The Batman Part II

    Release Date

    October 1, 2027

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