With three seasons behind it, the DC series Stargirl certainly left an indelible mark on its viewers, blending superhero action with heartfelt storytelling from start to finish. Now, two years after it ended, here are some key elements we miss most about the underrated series — and why it’s still worth the watch for newcomers.

The Well-Rounded JSA Roster

One of the most captivating aspects of Stargirl was its unique Justice Society of America (JSA) roster. The team was a mix of both familiar and lesser-known characters, each brought to life with fresh interpretations that resonated with fans. Courtney Whitmore, also known as Stargirl, is the heart of the series — depicting her journey from a regular high school student to the leader of the new JSA that organically feels earned.

Other JSA members bring their own unique set of struggles, like Yolanda Montez, who spends a large portion of her storyline seeking redemption and justice through her title as Wildcat. Rick Tyler, or Hourman II, adds a brooding intensity to the team (and muscle), grappling with his father’s legacy and his own anger issues. There’s also Beth Chapel, the tech-savvy Doctor Mid-Nite II, who provided crucial support with her intelligence and resourcefulness while growing into her own. And possibly our favorite of all, Cindy Burman, also known as Shiv, who facilitates an irreplaceable component to the series as she navigates her dual identity as a sharp-tongued teenager and a formidable villain attempting to pursue a new path.

A Talented Ensemble

The cast of Stargirl was committed to their role, with each actor bringing their character to life in a memorable way. Brec Bassinger’s performance as Courtney Whitmore/Stargirl was both heartfelt and empowering, making Courtney a beloved character. Yvette Monreal’s portrayal of Yolanda Montez/Wildcat was vulnerable and poignant, beautifully capturing Yolanda’s redemption arc. On the other hand, Cameron Gellman brought a raw intensity to Rick Tyler/Hourman II, making his struggles and growth compelling to watch.

Meg DeLacy’s performance as Cindy Burman/Shiv added a layer of sensitivity to Cindy, making her both a formidable villain and a sympathetic character. Conversely, Anjelika Washington’s portrayal of Beth Chapel/Doctor Mid-Nite II successfully conveys the character’s endearing nature, with her intelligence and optimism shining through — or even Hunter Sansone’s portrayal of Cameron Mahkent, which added a romantic subplot that was both promising and tragic. Outside of its core, teen JSA members, other heavy hitters like Amy Smart brought warmth and strength to the role of Barbara Whitmore, providing a grounding presence in the series — while Luke Wilson’s performance as the JSA mentor Pat Dugan/S.T.R.I.P.E. is both humorous and heartfelt, making him a standout character. That’s what we’d refer to as ensemble goals!

Ambitious Action Sequences

Stargirl was renowned among fans for its thrilling action sequences, which were both visually stunning and emotionally charged (plus, they’ve consistently gained attention post-cancelation on social media). For the majority of its run, Courtney’s gymnast-level battles using the Cosmic Staff were a highlight, showcasing inventive choreography, her growth as a young hero, and the staff’s unique abilities.

Additionally, Cindy’s hand-to-hand fights were intense and technical, reflecting her relentless training and ruthless nature (plus the wirework in season three was spectacular). Another iconic example includes the fight scenes involving Starman and the Crocks (Sportsmaster and Tigress, who were wrongfully taken from us), blending raw power with strategic combat and a phenomenal use of the set. More impressively, these standout sequences were not just about the spectacle; they were always integral to the character’s development and the story’s progression.

A Charming Blend of Traditional Genres

The series masterfully blended various genres, creating a unique viewing experience that appealed to a wide audience. Conceptually, Stargirl captured the essence of classic hope-filled comic books with its vibrant visuals and larger-than-life characters. Still, the show addressed typical teenage issues, such as fitting in and dealing with complex family dynamics (looking at you Cameron), making it universally attainable to younger viewers.

Tapping into some darker elements of the comic book universe, characters often faced tough moral choices, adding depth to the narrative and masterfully highlighting the complexities of being a hero. And with its ability to navigate those serious moments without losing its lighter sense of heroic optimism — Stargirl feels like it has real staying power.

Now we’ll just have to hold out hope for some unlikely universe where DC gives it another chance at some point in the future… It’s not just necessary, it’s needed.

Stargirl can currently be streamed via MAX.