Black Lightning

About Black Lightning

Black Lightning is a television show based on the DC Comics character of the same name. The show premiered in 2018 and centers around Jefferson Pierce, a retired superhero who is forced to return to his vigilante ways to protect his community from crime and corruption. Set in the fictional city of Freeland, Black Lightning explores themes of family, justice, and the impact of wielding power responsibly.

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music, Soundtrack

About

Jefferson Pierce, played by Cress Williams, is a high school principal who also moonlights as the superhero Black Lightning. He has the power to harness and control electricity, using it to fight crime and protect his community. As the show progresses, Jefferson struggles to balance his duties as a father and a hero while facing formidable foes who threaten the safety of Freeland.

Making / Production

Black Lightning was developed by Salim Akil and is produced by Berlanti Productions and Akil Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television. The show is known for its authentic portrayal of societal issues and its diverse representation both in front of and behind the camera.

Actors

• Cress Williams as Jefferson Pierce / Black Lightning - Williams portrays the titular character, balancing the roles of a father, principal, and superhero.
• China Anne McClain as Jennifer Pierce - She plays Jefferson's younger daughter who also develops superpowers.
• Nafessa Williams as Anissa Pierce / Thunder - Anissa is Jefferson's older daughter who becomes the hero Thunder.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Black Lightning is the first African-American superhero to have his standalone comic book title in DC Comics.
• The character of Black Lightning was created by Tony Isabella and Trevor Von Eeden in 1977.
• The show addresses social issues such as race, discrimination, and community activism.

Awards

Black Lightning has been nominated for several awards, including NAACP Image Awards and Saturn Awards for its performances and storytelling. While it hasn't won any major awards, the show has received critical acclaim for its representation and storytelling.

Quotes

• "I promise you, I will not let your mother's death be in vain." - Jefferson Pierce
• "Justice, like lightning, should ever appear to some men hope, to other men fear." - Gambi
• "I'm not just the athletic director. I'm the man. I'm the king." - Jefferson Pierce

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack of Black Lightning features a mix of hip hop, R&B, and soul music that complements the show's urban setting and themes.
• Artists like Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, and Beyoncé have been featured on the show's soundtrack.