Salim Akil

'Black Lightning' has made quite the positive impression following its debut on The CW in the US and Netflix in the UK. The superhero series is one set apart from its fellow network superhero shows that make up the 'Arrowverse', but is already doing well to establish itself as an entirely different entity. 

Nafessa Williams recognises how important her role in 'Black Lightning' truly is

Telling stories that haven't yet been told on the small screen, and allowing people of colour to take the lead for the first time in a show of this type, a lot hangs on the shoulders of those involved with 'Black Lightning'. It's something that showrunner Salim Akil has spoken about in the past, and something that the cast members of the series are also hugely aware of.

Continue reading: Nafessa Williams Discusses Playing A Black Lesbian Superhero In 'Black Lightning'

Superheroes are really seeing their day in modern culture. Whether they're taking over the big screen as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the DC Extended Universe or something else entirely; or are a part of television, proving that you don't need huge budgets to tell compelling and addictive stories, more characters from the world of comic books are being brought to life in a variety of unique ways.

Salim Akil serves as showrunner on The CW series 'Black Lightning'

This year, it's the turn of DC character Black Lightning, who now has his own show on The CW, sitting alongside the likes of 'Arrow', 'The Flash', 'Supergirl', and 'Legends of Tomorrow'. Whilst 'Black Lightning' doesn't exist within the same 'Arrowverse' as the four latter shows, that doesn't mean there aren't huge ambitions for those working behind-the-scenes for major events at some point down the road.

Continue reading: Salim Akil Wants 'Black Lightning' To Kickstart A 'Lightningverse'

Officially picked up at US broadcaster The CW a little earlier this year, upcoming DC superhero series 'Black Lightning' will come to viewers at some point in 2018, allowing the lesser-known member of the DC heroes roster to shine like never before. With the network also playing host to 'Arrow', as well as its fellow 'Arrowverse' shows such as 'The Flash', 'DC's Legends of Tomorrow' and 'Supergirl', many jumped to the conclusion that 'Black Lightning' would exist within the same frame. It's now been confirmed however that the show will serve as its own entity entirely.

Salim Akil serves as co-showrunner on 'Black Lightning'

Despite that, a fresh perspective from those working on the series may be exactly what the viewing public need. With Cress Williams in the driving seat as Jefferson Pierce, aka the titular hero, viewers will catch up with his character years after he hung up his suit and retired from the superhero lifestyle, hoping to live out a fairly normal and regular life with those that he loved.

Continue reading: 'Black Lightning' Showrunner Salim Akil Discusses Show's Unique Features