Superhero movies and television shows have exploded in popularity over the last 15 years, thanks mostly to the first Iron Man and Dark Knight trilogy. The success of these movies helped captivate an entire age group and sell out theaters for a long time. However, one of the reasons fans were excited about these characters wasn’t quite because they were relatable.
Both Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark are billionaires who are superheroes in their spare time. They’re not exactly the most relatable! One of the best parts of other heroes in the MCU and DCEU is the relatability of different characters. Some are in high school, some have real jobs, and some built themselves up. For this article 24/7 Tempo consulted different outside sources. These include ComicBookResources.com, ComicBook.com, and Marvel.com. These superheroes are the most relatable characters.
The Flash
Most people can’t travel at the speed of light. However, The Flash is a hero who still has a real job with the Central City Police Department. He struggles with wanting a girl and he has a group of friends helping him fight crime after the Particle Accelerator went off. Barry Allen has had to deal with unimaginable types of tragedy in his life, and he didn’t have his powers until adulthood. He knows what it’s like to go to college and work to be where he is today. Most people wish they could be hit with a boost that allowed them to run faster than anyone ever, but Barry Allen had it happen to him.
Hawkeye
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 13: Jeremy Renner attends Level 8 Grand Opening Party At Moxy Downtown LA on September 13, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Level 8)
Family is one of the most important parts of humanity, which is why Hawkeye is so relatable. He left the Avengers squad to spend time with his kids growing up. This is a choice many people have had to face at one point or another. His arrow aim is the most accurate in the world, thanks to years of practice and dedication. People relate to his story and see him as someone they could actually become someday if they work hard at their craft. Even though he didn’t get his own movie, Hawkeye knows what it means to be a family man. He understands that it’s crucial to work hard if you want to succeed at anything.
Black Widow
Much like Hawkeye, Black Widow wasn’t born with any powers or hit by a Particle Accelerator. While her childhood isn’t as relatable for most, fans look at her and see someone who trained her body to do the impossible. She can take down anyone who comes her way with intentions of harm. This is what makes her one of the most valuable members of the Avengers. She struggles with her feelings and deciphering what’s best for her, which is something many people deal with. Young girls look up to her as a powerful heroine who’s relied upon by others. Fans love that she strives to save the day without superhuman powers.
Spider-Man
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 14: Tom Holland attends the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 14, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Critics Choice Association)
Going through high school can be a challenging time for many people. Trying to fit in, get good grades, and set yourself up for a bright future can create loads of stress. Spider-Man shows fans that he has all of these issues too, in addition to taking time out to save the world. Not only is he out and about helping innocent people, but he’s also trying to convince Mary Jane to be with him. Like The Flash, Spider-Man wasn’t born with powers. He gained them later on in life. He knows what it’s like to be normal and have a regular life, even though the loss of his Uncle Ben was unfathomable.
Captain America
HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 28: Actor Chris Evans attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Dozens of men understand the desire to go and serve their country. That’s exactly how Steve Rogers felt during World War II. Sadly, he wasn’t the right size at first. After he underwent an experiment to create a super soldier, he was ready to get out there without hesitation. Rogers received superhuman abilities, but still had to go through life being looked over and neglected. He was not taken seriously. Tons of people know this feeling and live vicariously through Rogers. After he was enhanced to become the hero he’s known as today, it was a rags to riches type of tale. Captain America stands up for what’s right, even when it’s hard to do so. His values never changed, no matter how much he physically did.
Superman
Henry Cavill at the premiere of Man of Steel on June 12, 2013 in London, England.
The only hero on this list who was born with his powers is Superman. Even though he can fly, shoot lasers out of his eyes, exhibit super strength, and run at super speed, average people see Clark Kent as a regular guy. The people around him know him as a shy reporter who lives an ordinary life. Superman became even more relatable when the hit show “Smallville” premiered. Fans got a glimpse into his high school life and teenage years. Kent did his best to blend in as a way of protecting his secret. Click here to read more about the best superhero movies of all time.