View source for Static Shock

{{Short description|American animated TV series (2000–04)}}
{{About||the character this series is based on|Static (DC Comics)|shocks from static electricity|Electrostatics|and|Triboelectric effect}}
{{good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2025}}
{{Infobox television
| image                = Static Shock (DC Comics animated series) logo.svg
| genre                = [[Action film|Action]]-[[Adventure fiction|Adventure]]<ref name=dc/><br />[[Comedy]]<ref name=dc/><br />[[Science fiction]]<ref name=dc/><br />[[Superhero fiction|Superhero]]<ref name=dc>{{cite web | url=http://www.dccomics.com/tv/static-shock-2000-2004 | title=Static Shock (2000 – 2004) | publisher=DC Comics | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223055913/http://www.dccomics.com/tv/static-shock-2000-2004 | archive-date=February 23, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>
| creator              = 
| based_on             = {{based on|[[Static (DC Comics)|Static]]|[[Dwayne McDuffie]]<br/>[[Denys Cowan]]<br/>[[Michael Davis (comics creator)|Michael Davis]]<br/>[[Derek T. Dingle]]<br/>[[Christopher Priest (comic book writer)|Christopher Priest]]}}
| developer            = Christopher Simmons (season 2)
| writer               = 
| director             = 
| voices               = {{Plainlist|
* [[Phil LaMarr]]
* [[Jason Marsden]]
* [[Kevin Michael Richardson]]
* [[Michele Morgan (American actress)|Michele Morgan]]
}}
| theme_music_composer = {{Plainlist|Stanley Clarke (season 1)<br/>[[Richard Wolf (Film & TV composer)|Richard Wolf]] (season 2)<br/>[[Lil' Romeo (rapper)|Lil' Romeo]] & [[Master P]] (seasons 3–4)
}}
| open_theme           = {{Plainlist|Theme (seasons 1–2)<br/>"Static Shock Superhero" Theme (seasons 3–4)}}
| composer             = {{Plainlist|[[Stanley Clarke]] (season 1)<br/>Richard Wolf (seasons 2–3)<br/>Max Gousse (season 4)<br/>Derryck "Big Tank" Thornton (season 4)}}
| language             = English
| country              = United States
| num_seasons          = 4
| num_episodes         = 52
| list_episodes        = List of Static Shock episodes
| executive_producer   = {{Plainlist|[[Jean MacCurdy]] (seasons 1–2)<br/>[[Sander Schwartz]] (seasons 2–4)}}
| producer             = {{Plainlist|Scott Jeralds (seasons 1–2)<br/>Denys Cowan (seasons 3–4)<br/>[[Swinton O. Scott III]] (seasons 3–4)}}
| editor               = {{Plainlist|Joe Gall (seasons 2–4)<br />Derrick Mitchell (season 3)}}
| runtime              = 22 minutes
| company              = [[Warner Bros. Family Entertainment]]<br/>[[Warner Bros. Animation]]{{efn|Credited as Warner Bros. Television Animation from 2000 to 2003.}}
| network              = [[Kids' WB]]
| first_aired          = {{Start date|2000|09|23}}
| last_aired           = {{End date|2004|05|22}}
| image_size           = 260
| related              = {{Plainlist|
* ''[[The New Batman/Superman Adventures]]''
* [[DC Animated Universe#Television series|DC animated universe television series]] 
}}
}}
'''''Static Shock''''' is an American [[superhero fiction|superhero]] [[List of animated television series|animated television series]] based on the [[Milestone Media]]/[[DC Comics]] superhero [[Static (DC Comics)|Static]]. It premiered on September 23, 2000, on [[the WB|the WB Television Network]]'s [[Kids' WB]] [[block programming|programming block]]. ''Static Shock'' ran for four seasons, with 52 half-hour episodes in total. The show revolves around Virgil Hawkins, a 14-year-old boy who uses the [[secret identity]] of "Static" after exposure to a [[mutagen]] gas during a gang fight which gave him [[electromagnetic]] powers. It was the first time that an African-American superhero was the titular character of their own broadcast animation series.{{efn|Although Static was not the first [[List of black superheroes|black superhero]] to feature on a television show,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Erickson |first1=Hal |title=Television Cartoon Shows: An Illustrated Encyclopedia, 1949 Through 2003 |date=2005 |edition=2nd |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=978-1476665993 |page=792}}</ref> ''Static Shock'' was the first series to have an African-American superhero as its lead character.<ref name=superherobook/>|name=1stblack}}

''Static Shock'' was produced by [[Warner Bros. Animation]] from a crew composed mostly of people from the company's past shows, but also with the involvement of two of the comic's creators, [[Dwayne McDuffie]] and [[Denys Cowan]]. ''Static Shock'' had some alterations from the original comic book because it was oriented to a pre-teen audience. Although originally not intended to be part of the [[DC Animated Universe]], it was incorporated into it in the second season.

The show approached several social issues, which was positively received by most television critics. ''Static Shock'' was nominated for numerous awards, including the [[Daytime Emmy Award|Daytime Emmy]]. Some criticism was directed towards its humor and animation, which was said to be unnatural and outdated. The series also produced some related merchandise, which sold poorly; McDuffie cited the low sales as one of the main factors behind the series' cancellation. In spite of this, its popularity revived interest in the original Milestone comic and introduced McDuffie to the animation industry.

==Plot==
Virgil Hawkins is a 14-year-old boy who lives with his older sister Sharon, and their widowed father Robert in Dakota City. He attends high school with his best friend Richie Foley, and has a crush on a girl named Frieda. He also has a dispute with a bully named Francis Stone, nicknamed "F-Stop." A gang leader named Wade recently helped Virgil, hoping to recruit him, but Virgil is hesitant, as he knows his mother died in an exchange of gunfire between gangs. Wade eventually leads Virgil to a restricted area for a fight against F-Stop's crew, but it was interrupted by police helicopters. During the dispute with the police, chemical containers explode, releasing a gas that causes mutations among the people in the vicinity (this event was later known as the "[[Big Bang (comics)|Big Bang]]"). As a result, Virgil obtains the ability to create, generate, absorb, and control electricity and magnetism—he takes up the alter-ego of "Static". The gas also gives others in the area their own powers, and several of them become supervillains known as "Bang Babies".

==Characters==
{{Main|List of Static Shock characters|List of DC Animated Universe characters}}
* [[Static (DC Comics)|Virgil Hawkins / Static]] (voiced by [[Phil LaMarr]]) – A high school student in Dakota City. As a result of accidental exposure to an experimental [[mutagen]] in an event known as the Big Bang, he gained the ability to control and manipulate [[electromagnetism]], and uses these powers to become the superhero "Static". Countless others who were also exposed also gained a wide variety of mutations and abilities, and Static spends much of his time dealing with these "Bang Babies", many of whom use their abilities in selfish, harmful, and even criminal ways.
* Richie Foley / Gear (voiced by [[Jason Marsden]]) – Virgil's best friend and confidant. At first, he merely provides support for his friend, making gadgets for him and helping protect his secret identity. In the third season, Richie develops superhuman intelligence from prolonged passive exposure to the Big Bang gas and becomes the superhero Gear.
* Robert Hawkins (voiced by [[Kevin Michael Richardson]]) – A [[social worker]] who runs the Freeman Community Center as head counselor. He is a widower and the single father of two teenagers—Virgil and Sharon. A strict but caring and genuinely understanding parent, he dislikes gangs and the destructive attitudes of most Bang Babies, and his work at the community center is motivated by a desire to counteract their bad influence.
* Sharon Hawkins (voiced by [[Michele Morgan (actress)|Michele Morgan]]) – Virgil's older sister, who attends college, but she still lives at home. She volunteers at a hospital, and counsels young people at the Freeman Community Center. While they do argue frequently, Sharon and Virgil really do care about each other and are quick to come to the other's defense if one of them is in danger.
* Adam Evans / Rubberband Man (voiced by [[Kadeem Hardison]]) – A Bang Baby whose body structure consists of shapeable rubber. He is the younger brother of Ebon. Rubberband Man first appears as a [[tragic villain]] when he goes after an opportunistic record producer who stole one of his songs. He subsequently breaks out of prison, but decides not to pursue a criminal career. He and Sharon eventually start dating, with Sharon helping Adam turn over a new leaf. He and Virgil initially clash, but Virgil comes to accept Adam's relationship with his sister, and they become allies in crime-fighting, with Adam even becoming like an older-brother figure to Virgil.
* Francis Stone / Hotstreak (voiced by [[Danny Cooksey]]) - A Bang Baby who was an enemy of Virgil long before they gained their respective [[superpowers]]. Prior to the "Big Bang," Francis was a local bully and gang leader known as "F-Stop". He and his gang would antagonize Virgil, being stopped only by his rival Wade. As a result of the Big Bang, he gained pyrokinesis that allow him to ignite fire at will, which lead to him and Static clashing on a daily basis.
* Ivan Evans / Ebon (voiced by [[Gary Anthony Sturgis]]) – The head of a large group of Bang Babies called "The Meta-Breed" and the series' [[main antagonist]]. Ebon is an unusually powerful metahuman able to create portals and manipulate pure darkness and shadows.

==Production==
The series was produced by [[Warner Bros. Animation]] based on the [[Milestone Media]]/[[DC Comics]] character [[Static (DC Comics)|Static]].<ref name=warner>{{cite web | url=https://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/all-new-%E2%80%9Cpokemon-gs%E2%80%9D-plus-new-series-%E2%80%9Cjackie-chan-adventures%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%9Cx-men-evolution%E2%80%9D-and- | title=All-New "Pokemon GS," Plus New Series "Jackie Chan Adventures," "X-Men Evolution" And "Static Shock!" Highlight New Saturday Morning Schedule For Ratings King Kids' WB! | date=April 4, 2000 | publisher=Warner Bros. | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016023536/http://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/all-new-%E2%80%9Cpokemon-gs%E2%80%9D-plus-new-series-%E2%80%9Cjackie-chan-adventures%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%9Cx-men-evolution%E2%80%9D-and- | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Its supervising producer was [[Alan Burnett]], and Scott Jeralds was the main producer under executive producers [[Jean MacCurdy]] and [[Sander Schwartz]].<ref name=warner/><ref name=exec/> The production team consisted mostly of people who were involved with ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]'' and ''[[Superman: The Animated Series]]'', but also included Static's co-creator [[Denys Cowan]].<ref name=superherobook>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IDlEHGKj8JgC&pg=PA471 | title=The Superhero Book: The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Comic-book Icons and Hollywood Heroes |author1=Misiroglu, Gina Renée |author2=Roach, David A. | publisher=[[Visible Ink Press]] | year=2004 | isbn=9781578591541 | pages=471–472}}</ref> Although the show hired the comic series' co-creator [[Dwayne McDuffie]] as story editor and writer,<ref name=superherobook/> McDuffie had no direct involvement on the development of ''Static Shock''.<ref name=mcduffieinterview>{{cite web | url=http://www.worldsfinestonline.com/WF/staticshock/backstage/interviews/mcduffiewf.php | title=Backstage - Interviews - Dwayne McDuffie | author=Harvey, Jim | publisher=The World's Finest  | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065357/http://www.worldsfinestonline.com/WF/staticshock/backstage/interviews/mcduffiewf.php | archive-date=February 11, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> The idea of a ''Static'' series first emerged with DC's editor-in-chief [[Jenette Kahn]] during the time McDuffie was working for Milestone under Kahn.<ref name=captaincomics/> In 1993, Kahn proposed to adapt some Milestone comics; Burnett was hired to write a [[pilot episode]] for an ''[[X-Men]]''-esque series with Milestone superheroes called ''The New Guard''.<ref name=captaincomics/><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.jazmaonline.com/interviews/mcduffie.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020306024556/http://www.jazmaonline.com/interviews/mcduffie.htm | archive-date=March 6, 2002 | title=Interview with Dwayne McDuffie | year=c. 2001<!-- date and author https://web.archive.org/web/20010225221252/http://www.jazmaonline.com/interviews/index2.htm --> | author=Roberts, Paul Dale | website=Jazma Universe Online | access-date=August 3, 2015}}</ref> After attempts to produce several other Milestone projects, ''Static'' was eventually the series "they went for".<ref name=captaincomics>{{cite web|url=http://www.captaincomics.net/columns/10hook20.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010413040939/http://captaincomics.net/columns/10hook20.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 13, 2001 |title=Dwayne McDuffie: 'Static Shock,' breaking into comics, and guys with bras on their heads |author=Meyeres, Randy |date=October 20, 2001 |website=CaptainComics.net |access-date=August 2, 2015 }}</ref> By the time Milestone and DC drafted their contract over DC distributing Milestone comics, the characters were from separate fictional universes.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> However, when [[Fictional crossover|crossover]]s between ''Static Shock'' and other DC animated series were suggested, it was established that they were from the same [[DC Animated Universe]]<ref name=csm/><ref name=dcau>{{cite web | url=https://www.avclub.com/article/the-dc-animated-universe-47916 | title=The DC Animated Universe | author=Pierce, Leonard | date=November 18, 2010 | work=The A.V. Club | publisher=[[The Onion]] | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905170242/http://www.avclub.com/article/the-dc-animated-universe-47916 | archive-date=September 5, 2015}}</ref>—"rather than having to muck around with multiple dimensions, or whatever."<ref name=mcduffieinterview/>

Although McDuffie stressed that the show remains loyal to "the spirit and the tone" of the comic book,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.fanuniverse.com/comics_news/09_22_00/1static_comeback.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001216063900/http://www.fanuniverse.com/comics_news/09_22_00/1static_comeback.html | archive-date=December 16, 2000 | title=Static in Shocking Comeback | author=Vaughn, J.C. | date=September 29, 2000 | website=FanUniverse | access-date=August 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.popcultureshock.com/pcs.php3?section=comics&type=interviews&content=cowan-mcduffie_tdo | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010728220258/http://www.popcultureshock.com/pcs.php3?section=comics&type=interviews&content=cowan-mcduffie_tdo | archive-date=July 28, 2001 | title=Rebirth of Milestone: interview with Denys Cowan & Dwayne McDuffie | date=July 2000 | website=Pop Culture Shock | url-status=usurped | access-date=August 3, 2015}}</ref> some changes were done because of its timeslot and target audience of pre-teens.<ref name=superherobook/><ref name=mcduffieinterview/><ref name=orlando>{{cite web | url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2000/12/25/tv-superhero-reflects-real-life/ | title=Tv Superhero Reflects Real Life | date=December 25, 2000 | author=Campbell, Ramsey | work=Orlando Sentinel | publisher=[[Tribune Publishing]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911232906/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2000-12-25/news/0012250279_1_virgil-hawkins-superhero-static/3 | archive-date=September 11, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|Leonard Pierce of the ''A.V. Club'' even considered it to be "the most kid-oriented of all the [DC animated universe] franchise's shows," and "much more appealing to a younger audience than ''Batman'', ''Superman'', or ''Justice League''", for example.<ref name=dcau/>}} For example, guns appeared less frequently, Richie is not explicitly portrayed as homosexual,{{efn|Dwayne McDuffie commented on this issue, "It'll never come up in the show because it's Y-7 but as far as I'm concerned, Richie is gay [...]. The way I dealt with Richie's homosexuality was to write him aggressively and unconvincingly announcing his heterosexuality whenever possible ('Wow! Look at those girls in the swimsuits! I sure like girls!'), while Virgil rolled his eyes at the transparency of it".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.comicsbeat.com/marvels-earliest-gay-characters-introduced-in-don-mcgregors-black-panther-comics/ | title=Marvel's Earliest Gay Characters Introduced in Don McGregor's Black Panther Comics | author=Dar, Talmur | date=February 12, 2018 | website=[[Comics Beat]] | access-date=May 22, 2020}}</ref> }} and he is Virgil's confidant instead of Frieda.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> Virgil is also younger in the animated series,<ref name=orlando/> his costumes and use of his powers are different from the original, and his mother is dead in the show despite the fact that she is alive in the comics.<ref name=superherobook/><ref name=mcduffieinterview/> The latter change was done because producers had the intention "to focus on a strong, complex relationship between an African-American father and son."<ref name=conti>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0009/21/ | title=Simmons Talks Static Shock | date=September 22, 2000 | website=The Comics Continuum | author=Allstetter, Rob | access-date=July 13, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030404224558/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0009/21/ | archive-date=April 4, 2003 | url-status=live}}</ref> Nevertheless, McDuffie was concerned by the change because he originally intended to oppose the stereotype of black people not having a complete [[nuclear family]].<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> However, McDuffie said "that [it] worked out okay" as the crew could use the absence of Virgil's mother to create a "couple of great stories".<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> Virgil's father, Robert, "for all intents and purposes, is a new character", as he was reconceptualized as a social worker.<ref name=conti/> The same goes for Richie, who is described as an amalgam of different characters from the original comic.<ref name=conti/> For the villains, Hotstreak was reused from the ''Static'' comics, Edwin Alva was brought from another Milestone's series—''[[Hardware (comics)|Hardware]]''—, and the Meta-Breed was created for the series.<ref name=conti/>

{{multiple image
| align = right
| image1 = Jasonm12.jpg
| width1 = 145
| alt1 = 
| caption1 = 
| image2 = Phil Lamarr (cropped).jpg
| width2 = 148
| alt2 = 
| caption2 = 
| footer = The third season marks Richie turning into superhero Gear. This was done partially because it was becoming hard to fit him into the story and the producers wanted to keep the "chemistry" between voice actors Phil LaMarr (''right'') and Jason Marsden.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/>
}}

The third season saw some of the biggest changes; in addition to Richie's superhero powers and a new opening, Static changed his costume.<ref name=3rd/> Cowan stated that the change was done to give his clothes a "feel of the comic book",<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0209/07/index.htm | title=Static Shock's new look | date=September 7, 2002 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050219015816/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0209/07/index.htm | archive-date=February 19, 2005}}</ref> while McDuffie said it represented a growth that Virgil was passing through.<ref name=mature/> This maturation made possible to "explore some of the darker places in his world," and to have more varied conflicts, as the villains have also become more mature.<!-- <ref name=mature/> --> He described it is as "a natural outgrowth of all that, as is the new, more naturalistic look of the show."<ref name=mature>{{cite web | url=http://dwaynemcduffienews.blogspot.com/2003/01/static-shock-interview-with-dwayne.html | title=Static Shock: Interview with Dwayne | date=January 24, 2003 | author=Harvey, Jim | publisher=Dwayne McDuffie blog | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016031732/http://dwaynemcduffienews.blogspot.com.br/2003/01/static-shock-interview-with-dwayne.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> This change followed the second-season premiere—"The Big Leagues"—when Static meets [[Batman]] and [[Robin (comics)|Robin]]. Burnett said, "after that show, everybody went, 'Let's go in that direction.'"<ref name=darkeranddini>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0301/14/index.htm | title=Alan Burnett talks Static Shock | date=January 14, 2003 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070618051146/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0301/14/index.htm | archive-date=June 18, 2007 | url-status=live}}</ref> Writer [[John Semper, Jr.]] commented, "of course, I always lean toward the dramatic ... But the same old light-hearted Static spirit is still there."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://dwaynemcduffienews.blogspot.com/2003/01/static-shock-story-editor-speaks.html | title=Static Shock Story Editor Speaks | date=January 22, 2003 | author=Harvey, Jim | publisher=Dwayne McDuffie blog | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150723030331/http://dwaynemcduffienews.blogspot.com/2003/01/static-shock-story-editor-speaks.html | archive-date=July 23, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Richie gains superhero powers because it was becoming hard to fit him into the story and the producers wanted to keep the "chemistry" between voice actors LaMarr and Marsden.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> There was also a positive response from children in [[focus group]]s so "[t]he answer seemed pretty obvious."<ref name=mcduffieinterview/>

The series' music director was [[Richard Wolf (Film & TV composer)|Richard Wolf]],<ref name=wolf/> while he, Stanley Clarke and Max Gousse were the composers, and Kennard Ramsey was the orchestrator.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia | url=http://memory.loc.gov/diglib/ihas/loc.natlib.jots.200162314/default.html | title=Static Shock | encyclopedia=Performing Arts Encyclopedia | date=April 2000 | publisher=[[Library of Congress]] | access-date=June 19, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405060350/http://memory.loc.gov/diglib/ihas/loc.natlib.jots.200162314/default.html | archive-date=April 5, 2016 | url-status=live}}</ref> For action sequences, Wolf wanted to use "real adrenaline-pumping beat" of 125 beats per minute; however, [[hip hop]] music usually only reached 110 beats. The predominant score was [[electronica]] with hip hop-type and [[DMX]]-type vocals. [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]] and [[old school hip hop]] melodies were also used depending on the scenes, and each character had a specific theme.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mixonline.com/news/films-tv/composer-spotlight-richard-wolf/369033 | title=Composer Spotlight: Richard Wolf | author=Farinella, David John | date=January 1, 2002 | work=[[Mix (magazine)|Mix]] | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720200832/http://www.mixonline.com/news/films-tv/composer-spotlight-richard-wolf/369033 | archive-date=July 20, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Wolf composed the opening theme for the first two seasons.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://worldsfinestonline.com/WF/staticshock/backstage/crewcredits/ | title=Cast and Crew | publisher=The World's Finest | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150224075958/http://www.worldsfinestonline.com/WF/staticshock/backstage/crewcredits/ | archive-date=February 24, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Starting from the third season, the show had a new opening theme, written by [[Master P]] and [[Lil' Romeo]] and performed by the latter.<ref name=3rd>{{cite web | url=https://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/%E2%80%9Cstatic-shock%E2%80%9D-and-kids%E2%80%99-wb-energize-saturday-mornings-all-new-adventures-costume-and | title="Static Shock" And Kids' WB! Energize Saturday Mornings With All-New Adventures, Costume And Super Hero Sidekick, Beginning January 25 | date=January 8, 2003 | publisher=Waner Bros. | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720200918/http://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/%E2%80%9Cstatic-shock%E2%80%9D-and-kids%E2%80%99-wb-energize-saturday-mornings-all-new-adventures-costume-and | archive-date=July 20, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0301/09/index.htm | title=Static Shock's third season | date=January 9, 2003 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051229005721/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0301/09/index.htm | archive-date=December 29, 2005 | url-status=live}}</ref>

==Episodes==
{{main|List of Static Shock episodes}}
<onlyinclude>{{Series overview

| color1 = #8888FF
| link1 = #Season 1 (2000–01)
| episodes1 = 13
| start1 = {{Start date|2000|9|23}} 
| end1 = {{End date|2001|5|12}} 
| network1 = [[Kids' WB]]

| color2 = #4E4F9C
| link2 = #Season 2 (2002)
| episodes2 = 11
| start2 = {{Start date|2002|1|26}} 
| end2 = {{End date|2002|5|4}} 

| color3 = #f3ce0c
| link3 = #Season 3 (2003)
| episodes3 = 15
| start3 = {{Start date|2003|1|25}} 
| end3 = {{End date|2003|6|21}} 

| color4 = #763e41
| link4 = #Season 4 (2004)
| episodes4 = 13
| start4 = {{Start date|2004|1|17}} 
| end4 = {{End date|2004|5|22}} 
}}</onlyinclude>

==Release==
''Static Shock'' aired on the [[Kids' WB]] programming block of [[The WB]] from September 23, 2000,<ref name=superherobook/> until May 22, 2004.<ref name=cc>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0405/10/index.htm |title=Catwoman Movie Update |date=May 10, 2004 |website=The Comics Continuum |access-date=July 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923210420/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0405/10/index.htm |archive-date=September 23, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=cc2>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0405/10/kids38.htm |title=Kids' WB! Air Date Schedule for Week #38 |website=The Comics Continuum |access-date=July 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923210451/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0405/10/kids38.htm |archive-date=September 23, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first African American superhero–centered television series,{{efn|name=1stblack}} it ran a total of 52 episodes.<ref name=cc/><ref name=cc2/> The series later premiered on [[Cartoon Network]], starting in December 2001,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2001/tv/news/pokemon-on-toon-1117855055/ | title='Pokemon' on 'Toon | date=October 30, 2001 | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016034048/http://variety.com/2001/tv/news/pokemon-on-toon-1117855055/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> and on [[Disney XD]] in February 2009.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0901/24/index.htm | title=Coming Sunday | author=Allstetter, Rob | date=January 24, 2009 | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=July 13, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216161215/http://comicscontinuum.com/stories/0901/24/index.htm | archive-date=February 16, 2009 | url-status=live}}</ref> The first six episodes were released to DVD on September 28, 2004, in a single volume entitled "The New Kid".<ref name=dvdtalk/><ref name=verdict/> The complete first season was made available for download on [[iTunes]] on July 4, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/tv-season/static-shock-season-1/id442521034 |title=Static Shock, Season 1 |date=23 September 2000 |publisher=iTunes |access-date=June 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703162841/https://itunes.apple.com/us/tv-season/static-shock-season-1/id442521034 |archive-date=July 3, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2017, Warner Bros. started to release ''Static Shock''{{'s}} complete seasons on [[manufacture on demand]] DVDs as a part of the [[Warner Archive Collection]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/02/28/complete-static-shock-first-series-released-dvd-warners/ | title=Complete Static Shock First Series To Be Released On DVD By Warners | author=Johnston, Rich | date=February 28, 2017 | website=[[Bleeding Cool]] | access-date=January 10, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228182414/https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/02/28/complete-static-shock-first-series-released-dvd-warners/ | archive-date=February 28, 2017 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.denofgeek.com/us/tv/static-shock/262534/static-shock-season-2-coming-to-dvd | title=Static Shock Season 2 Coming to DVD | author=Kelley, Shamus | date=April 20, 2017 | website=[[Den of Geek]] | access-date=January 10, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109233722/http://www.denofgeek.com/us/tv/static-shock/262534/static-shock-season-2-coming-to-dvd | archive-date=November 9, 2017}}</ref> The first season was published on March 28;<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X9VH7G7 | title=Static Shock: The Complete First Season | website=Amazon.com | date=28 March 2017 | access-date=January 10, 2018}}</ref> the second season on May 23;<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07111KYKM | title=Static Shock: The Complete Second Season | website=Amazon.com | date=23 May 2017 | access-date=January 10, 2018}}</ref> the third on January 30, 2018;<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0788XWKGW | title=Static Shock: The Complete Third Season | website=Amazon.com | access-date=January 10, 2018}}</ref> and the fourth on April 13, 2018.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/Static-Shock-Complete-Fourth-Season/dp/B07BN6ZHF8/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1522016534&sr=8-5&keywords=Static+shock+season+4 | title=Static Shock: The Complete Fourth Season  | website=Amazon.com | access-date=March 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.walmart.com/ip/Static-Shock-The-Complete-Fourth-Season-DVD/654302217 | title=Static Shock: The Complete Fourth Season ( (DVD)) | website=Walmart | access-date=March 30, 2018}}</ref> Starting in September 2018, all episodes of the series have been made available on the [[DC Universe (streaming service)|DC Universe]] digital streaming service.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-18-hands-on-with-the-dc-universe-app/ | title=SDCC '18: We Went Hands On With the DC Universe App and Here's What You'll Get | author=Lu, Alexander | date=July 28, 2018 | website=Comics Beat | access-date=August 1, 2018}}</ref> The series was streaming on [[Max (streaming service)|Max]] (formerly HBO Max) since 2021, but was removed from the service on January 1, 2025, thus making it one of the two DCAU series not available on Max (the other series being ''[[The Zeta Project]]''). In addition, the entire series is now also available for digital purchase, either individually or in a complete series pack such as on [[iTunes]].<ref>[https://itunes.apple.com/us/tv-season/static-shock-the-complete-series/id1680006014 Static Shock, The Complete Series]</ref>

''Static Shock''{{'}}s episodes handle different issues, including [[gangs]], [[gun violence]],<ref name=superherobook/> [[homelessness]], [[bullying]],<ref name=latimes>{{cite web | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2002-may-03-et-lynne3-story.html | title=Cartoon Superhero Gets Serious | date=May 3, 2002 | author=Heffley, Lynne | work=Los Angeles Times | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150913090811/http://articles.latimes.com/2002/may/03/entertainment/et-lynne3 | archive-date=September 13, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> [[racism]], [[mental illness]],<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> [[bigotry]], and [[drugs]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.toonzone.net/forums/threads/creators-talk-static-shocks-frozen-out.2926931/| title=Creators Talk Static Shock's "Frozen Out" | author=Harvey, James | date=February 22, 2002 | website=Toon Zone | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722220754/http://www.toonzone.net/forums/threads/creators-talk-static-shocks-frozen-out.2926931/ | archive-date=July 22, 2015}}</ref> Other episodes also featured the subject of [[Hanukkah]] and Christmas celebrations.<ref name=superherobook/> The series was also marked by several crossover episodes with characters from the DC Animated Universe like [[Superman]], [[John Stewart (character)|Green Lantern]], the [[Justice League]], and the ''[[Batman Beyond]]'' cast.<ref name=superherobook/> Several episodes also featured guest voice actors, including basketballers (like [[Shaquille O'Neal]] and [[Karl Malone]])<ref name="superherobook" /><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/basketball-all-stars-get-static-shock/ | title=Basketball All-Stars Get Static Shock | author=Ball, Ryan | date=February 20, 2004 | work=[[Animation Magazine]] | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911023539/http://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/basketball-all-stars-get-static-shock/ | archive-date=September 11, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> and musicians, such as the [[B2K]] group,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0401/23/ | title=Static Shock update | date=January 23, 2004 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722041511/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0401/23/ | archive-date=July 22, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Romeo Miller, and [[AJ McLean]].<ref name="superherobook" /> Guest crew was also featured, including cartoonist [[Rick Hoberg]] as storyboard artist,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0311/03/index.htm | title=Static Shock Update | date= November 3, 2003 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090504205521/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0311/03/index.htm | archive-date=May 4, 2009 | url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Paul Dini]] and [[John Ridley]] as writers.<ref name=darkeranddini/><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.newsarama.com/20418-12-years-a-slave-screenwriter-john-ridley-talks-comics.html | title=12 Years a Slave Screenwriter John Ridley Talks History, Writing, Comics | author=Smith, Zack | date=February 25, 2014 | work=[[Newsarama]] | publisher=[[Purch]] | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510004125/http://www.newsarama.com/20418-12-years-a-slave-screenwriter-john-ridley-talks-comics.html | archive-date=May 10, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>

''Static Shock'' was an extremely popular show, granting its new renewal for a second season just a month after its debut.<ref name=orlando/> As of December 2000, it was the highest-rated preteen show (from 2 to 11 years old) among all networks on its timeslot, and the third best on the Kids' WB! lineup.<ref name=orlando/><ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2000/tv/news/kids-wb-reups-static-1117790159/ | title=Kids' WB! reups 'Static' | author=Bernstein, Paula | date=December 6, 2000 | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016041220/http://variety.com/2000/tv/news/kids-wb-reups-static-1117790159/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> From its debut to July 2003, the show secured the second post among boys aged 6 to 11 years.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2003/tv/news/wb-orders-shock-block-1117888865/ | title=WB orders 'Shock' block | date=July 2, 2003 | author=Oei, Lily | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722055433/http://variety.com/2003/tv/news/wb-orders-shock-block-1117888865/ | archive-date=July 22, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Ratings increased after Richie's character obtained superhero powers; McDuffie affirmed that this is what secured the renewal for a new season.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> Indeed, the show's third season was its most popular and was the second best-rated Saturday morning program among boys aged 6 to 11 years, and tweens and male tweens aged 9 to 14.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/kids%E2%80%99-wb-announces-2003-2004-schedule-network-reinforces-%E2%80%9Cyear-round%E2%80%9D-programming | title=Kids' WB! Announces 2003-2004 Schedule As Network Reinforces "Year-Round" Programming Strategy | date=February 25, 2003 | publisher=Warner Bros. | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721062131/http://www.warnerbros.com/studio/news/kids%E2%80%99-wb-announces-2003-2004-schedule-network-reinforces-%E2%80%9Cyear-round%E2%80%9D-programming | archive-date=July 21, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> From February to April 2003, ratings regularly performed over the 4.0 stake among the public aged 9 to 14 years;<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/feb03/feb24/5_fri/news5friday.html | title=Grammys' real appeal among young | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=February 28, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016193535/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/feb03/feb24/5_fri/news5friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}<p>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/mar03/mar17/5_fri/news3friday.html | title='SpongeBob,' make room for 'Fear Factor' | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=March 21, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008221555/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/mar03/mar17/5_fri/news3friday.html | archive-date=October 8, 2013 | url-status=dead }}</p><p>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/mar03/mar31/5_fri/news3friday.html | title=Much of why 'Wanda's' hot | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=April 4, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016194324/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/mar03/mar31/5_fri/news3friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</p><p>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/apr03/apr14/1_mon/news4monday.html | title='Dragonball Z,' older kid on the block | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=April 14, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016194448/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/apr03/apr14/1_mon/news4monday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</p><p>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/apr03/apr21/5_fri/news4friday.html | title=Enduring story of 'The Ten Commandments' | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=April 25, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016200922/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/apr03/apr21/5_fri/news4friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</p></ref> it even reached the 6.4 mark in May.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/may03/may05/5_fri/news4friday.html | title='Dawson's Creek,' we will miss thee | author=Fitzgerald, Toni | date=May 9, 2003 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016201110/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2003/may03/may05/5_fri/news4friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Static Shock''{{'}}s last season was only surpassed by the children's [[anime]] ''[[Pokémon (anime)|Pokémon]]'', and the show's reruns on Cartoon Network were only surpassed by the adult animated sitcom ''[[Family Guy]]''.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/> ''Static Shock'' was the only program on Cartoon Network to be among the top 30 most watched kids shows in a week of October 2004.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2004/nov04/nov01/5_fri/news4friday.html | title='Rudolph,' that legacy of Christmas TV | author=Vasquez, Diego | date=November 5, 2004 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016201438/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/news2004/nov04/nov01/5_fri/news4friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</ref> It was also the best rated program of the channel among kids on a week of January 2005,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/News2005/jan05/jan24/5_fri/news4friday.html | title=How sweet it is, 'My Super Sweet 16' | author=Vasquez, Diego | date=January 28, 2005 | work=Media Life Magazine | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016201445/http://www.medialifemagazine.com:8080/News2005/jan05/jan24/5_fri/news4friday.html | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</ref> and the best rated show on Cartoon Network's Miguzi block as of March 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/ratings/2005/03/08/kids-6-11-kids-total-day-ratings-delivery-climb-40-percent-in-10th-straight-week-of-solid-growth-at-cartoon-network--17955/20050308cartoon01/ |title=Kids 6-11 Kids' Total Day Ratings, Delivery Climb 40% in 10th Straight Week of Solid Growth at Cartoon Network |date=March 8, 2005 |publisher=Cartoon Network | via=The Futon Critic |access-date=June 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240527135650/https://www.webcitation.org/6cKV8HkhK?url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/ratings/2005/03/08/kids-6-11-kids-total-day-ratings-delivery-climb-40-percent-in-10th-straight-week-of-solid-growth-at-cartoon-network--17955/20050308cartoon01/ |archive-date=May 27, 2024 |url-status=live }}</ref> For the 2004–05 season, it was the 18th most watched Saturday morning children's show of all networks.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marking-a-decade-at-the-top-54964632.html | title=Marking a Decade at the Top | date=June 28, 2005 | publisher=[[PR Newswire]] | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701211758/http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marking-a-decade-at-the-top-54964632.html | archive-date=July 1, 2015}}</ref> ''Static Shock'' was ultimately cancelled due to the low production of merchandise.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/>

==Reception==

===Accolades===
''Static Shock''{{'}}s episode "The Big Leagues" earned director Dave Chlystek a nomination for Outstanding Achievement for Directing in an Animated Television Production at the 2002 [[Annie Award]]s.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.awn.com/news/2002-annie-award-nominees | title=2002 Annie Award Nominees | author=Godfrey, Leigh | date=January 6, 2003 | publisher=[[Animation World Network]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919213953/http://www.awn.com/news/2002-annie-award-nominees | archive-date=September 19, 2015| url-status=live}}</ref> This episode was also nominated for a [[Golden Reel Award (Motion Picture Sound Editors)|Golden Reel Award]] for Best Sound Editing in Television Animation in 2003.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2003/film/awards/gangs-perdition-top-golden-reel-nods-1117880217/ | title='Gangs,' 'Perdition' top Golden Reel nods | date=February 7, 2003 | author=Martin, Denise | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016202129/http://variety.com/2003/film/awards/gangs-perdition-top-golden-reel-nods-1117880217/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> That same year, McDuffie and Burnett were awarded the [[Humanitas Prize]] in the Children's Animation Category for the episode "Jimmy".<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2003/07/11/Antwone-Fisher-wins-top-Humanitas-Prize/89531057933725/ | title='Antwone Fisher' wins top Humanitas Prize | author=Nason, Pat | date=July 11, 2003 | publisher=[[United Press International]] | access-date=July 12, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150101104820/http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2003/07/11/Antwone-Fisher-wins-top-Humanitas-Prize/89531057933725/ | archive-date=January 1, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2003/film/markets-festivals/fisher-nets-humanitas-1117889145/ | title=Fisher nets Humanitas | author=Gil, Billy | date=July 10, 2003 | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=July 12, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016210220/http://variety.com/2003/film/markets-festivals/fisher-nets-humanitas-1117889145/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[30th Daytime Emmy Awards]] in 2003, the show was nominated for Special Class Animated Program and Richard Wolf was nominated for Achievement in Music Direction and Composition.<ref name=wolf>{{cite web | url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_30th_nominations.pdf | title=The National Television Academy Announces 30th Annual Daytime Emmy Award Nominations in a Special Broadcast on ABC's "The View" | website=emmyonline.org | publisher=National Television Academy | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021132211/http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_30th_nominations.pdf | archive-date=October 21, 2013 | url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[31st Daytime Emmy Awards]] in 2004, both the animated series and Wolf were again nominated for the same categories—this time, Wolf won the award.<ref name=exec>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2004/scene/awards/ellen-the-talk-of-emmys-1117901205/ | title=Ellen the talk of Emmys | date=March 4, 2004 |author1=McClintock, Pamela |author2=Oei, Lily | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016024426/http://variety.com/2004/scene/awards/ellen-the-talk-of-emmys-1117901205/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2004/scene/awards/sesame-ellen-top-creative-emmys-1117905049/ | title='Sesame,' 'Ellen' top Creative Emmys | date=May 16, 2004 | author=Morfoot, Adie | work=Variety | publisher=Penske Business Media | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016210706/http://variety.com/2004/scene/awards/sesame-ellen-top-creative-emmys-1117905049/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>

===Reviews===
{{multiple image
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| footer = Although he noted that ''Static Shock'' did not feature the very first African-American superhero, [[Andy Mangels]] affirmed it was the first to have a diverse roster of characters and cast members as well.<ref name=superherobook/> For example, [[Michael Jai White]] (''left'') portrays Osebo in the episode "Static in Africa",<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0212/09/ | title=Static Shock Update | date=December 9, 2002 | author=Allstetter, Rob | website=The Comics Continuum | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081119031425/http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0212/09 | archive-date=November 19, 2008 | url-status=live}}</ref> while [[Alfre Woodard]] appears as Virgil's mother in "Flashback".<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.toonzone.net/2011/03/toonzone-presents-interview-tribute-dwayne-mcduffie/ | title=Toonzone Presents: An Interview/Tribute to Dwayne McDuffie | author=Weitzman, Alex | date=March 9, 2011 | website=Toon Zone | access-date=August 2, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016211152/http://www.toonzone.net/2011/03/toonzone-presents-interview-tribute-dwayne-mcduffie/ | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

The review aggregator [[Rotten Tomatoes]] only provides an average score for the series first season; it reports a 75% approval rating based on eight reviews.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/static_shock/s01 | title=Static Shock (Season 1) | website=Rotten Tomates | publisher=[[Flixster]] | access-date=November 12, 2022}}</ref> Leonard Pierce of ''[[The A.V. Club]]'' described it as "a surprising and sometimes rewarding success".<ref name=dcau/> October 2001 issue of ''[[Wizard (magazine)|Wizard]]'' listed the 100 best cartoon shows ever as selected by their readers, with ''Static Shock'' ranked at number 88.<ref>{{cite journal|title=100 Greatest Toons Ever|date=October 2001|issue=121|journal=Wizard}}</ref> Jonathon Dornbush, in a 2014 ''Entertainment Weekly'' article, included it among the nine best comics-based animated TV series. He asserted, "''Static Shock'' didn't have quite the name recognition of its DC brethren when it debuted, but the show proved it could stand alongside the greats."<ref>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.ew.com/gallery/9-best-animated-tv-series-drawn-comics/737420_static-shock | title=9 Best Animated TV Series Drawn from Comics | date=October 1, 2014 |author1=Dornbussh, Jonathon |author2=Rivera, Joshua | magazine=Entertainment Weekly | publisher=Time Inc. | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150922161257/http://www.ew.com/gallery/9-best-animated-tv-series-drawn-comics/737420_static-shock | archive-date=September 22, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Charlie Jane Anders]], for [[io9]], ranked it 91st on a list of the best science fiction and fantasy shows; she commented, "amidst a glut of superhero cartoons, this is one of the most memorable."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://io9.com/5347053/the-top-100-science-fictionfantasy-shows-91-through-100 | title=The Top 100 Science Fiction/Fantasy Shows: #91 Through 100 | author=Anders, Charlie Jane | date=August 27, 2009 | publisher=[[io9]] | access-date=July 17, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721192313/http://io9.com/5347053/the-top-100-science-fictionfantasy-shows-91-through-100 | archive-date=July 21, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>

In ''The Superhero Book'', [[Andy Mangels]] praised ''Static Shock''{{'}}s multicultural approach,<ref name=superherobook/> while Emily Ashby from [[Common Sense Media]] lauded it for encouraging diversity.<ref name=csm>{{cite web|url=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/static-shock# |title=Static Shock TV Review |author=Ashby, Emily |publisher=[[Common Sense Media]] |access-date=June 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100426152908/http://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/static-shock%23 |archive-date=April 26, 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> Mangels declared that "''Static Shock'' provides solid superheroic entertainment and a role model and promotion of diversity for not only African-American viewers, but for audiences of all colors and ages."<ref name=superherobook/> Writing for ''[[Entertainment Weekly]]'', Monique Jones praised the series for a positive depiction not only of an African American superhero but of an African country—Ghana.<ref name=jones>{{cite magazine | url=http://community.ew.com/2014/11/08/3-points-static-shock-could-learn-from-static-shock/ | title=New 'Static Shock': 3 lessons to learn from DC's classic animated series | date=November 8, 2014 | author=Jones, Monique | magazine=Entertainment Weekly | publisher=Time Inc. | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114053552/http://community.ew.com/2014/11/08/3-points-static-shock-could-learn-from-static-shock | archive-date=January 14, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Jones also commended how the series incorporated social issues in "an easily digestible" way without having to "sugarcoat" them.<ref name=jones/> Lynne Heffley of ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' commented it "isn't your typical Saturday-morning cartoon series", praising its themes and electing the episode "Jimmy"—about gun violence—as an example.<ref name=latimes/> Evan Levine, writing for ''[[Rome News-Tribune]]'', asserted that "the series is at its best when it confronts issues actually facing kids."<ref name=rnt>{{cite web | url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=348&dat=20020219&id=WDoxAAAAIBAJ&pg=4113,6560378&hl=en | title=Kids' TV: Superpowers and superheroes | date=February 19, 2002 | author=Levine, Evan | work=Rome News-Tribune | publisher=News Publishing Company | access-date=July 17, 2015}}</ref>

Jones commended Virgil's portrayal as an everyman teenager,<ref name=jones/> while Ashby appreciated Virgil's "relatable" character.<ref name=csm/> Colby Lanham of [[Comic Book Resources]] said Virgil "was perhaps the most human of many superheroes on television at the time" and considered the series was canceled too soon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cbr.com/10-animated-superhero-shows-cancelled-too-soon/ |title=10 Animated Superhero Shows Canceled Too Soon |date=September 17, 2016 |author=Lanham, Colby |publisher=Valnet Inc |website=Comic Book Resources |access-date=October 30, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161010204233/http://www.cbr.com/10-animated-superhero-shows-cancelled-too-soon/ |archive-date=October 10, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ashby was also positive to the fact that Virgil usually counted on dialogues before going into action;<ref name=csm/> this action was also praised by John Sinnott of [[DVD Talk]], who said it is "something that most animated heroes never think to do."<ref name=dvdtalk>{{cite web | url=https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/13204/static-shock-volume-1-the-new-kid/ | title=Static Shock, Volume 1 - The New Kid | author=Sinnott, John | date=November 10, 2004 | work=DVD Talk | publisher=[[Internet Brands]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114053552/http://community.ew.com/2014/11/08/3-points-static-shock-could-learn-from-static-shock | archive-date=January 14, 2015| url-status=live}}</ref> Ashby also applauded Virgil's "surprising depth of character" to not follow a gang but to use his powers for good.<ref name=csm/>

While Levine praised "its bright, cartoony visuals [that] are a notch above those of many other animated series,"<ref name=rnt/> Sinnott considered some of the animation to be "a little stilted."<ref name=dvdtalk/> Sinnott called it "a fun series overall", but considered some jokes to be "a little stale".<ref name=dvdtalk/> Neil Dorsett of [[DVD Verdict]] was generally disappointed; he called voice acting "very standard", and said that "artwork and animation are also both behind the times".<ref name=verdict>{{cite web | url=https://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/staticshocknewkid.php | title=Static Shock: The New Kid | author=Dorsett, Neil | date=January 5, 2005 | publisher=DVD Verdict | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905234054/http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/staticshocknewkid.php | archive-date=September 5, 2015 | url-status=dead }}</ref> Dorsett also criticized Virgil's [[one-line joke|one-line]]s, which "invites, like many other elements of the series, comparison to Spider-Man."<ref name=verdict/> He, however, pondered that his opinion may come from a bad first impression: "Although there are lots of things to nitpick about the show, there's not really anything wrong with it."<ref name=verdict/> Both Sinnott and Dorsett compared it unfavorably to the original comic book.<ref name=dvdtalk/><ref name=verdict/>

''Entertainment Weekly''{{'}}s [[Ken Tucker]] questioned why The WB made a TV show based on a cancelled, poorly-sold comic and criticized the "uttering tired, condescending lines" professed by Virgil.<ref>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.ew.com/article/2001/01/26/tv-show-reviews-bob-builder-disneys-house-mouse-jackie-chan-adventures-static | title=TV Show Reviews: 'Bob The Builder'; 'Disney's House Of Mouse'; 'Jackie Chan Adventures'; 'Static Shock'; 'X-Men: Evolution' | date=January 26, 2001 | author=Tucker, Ken | magazine=Entertainment Weekly | publisher=Time Inc. | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705075839/http://www.ew.com/article/2001/01/26/tv-show-reviews-bob-builder-disneys-house-mouse-jackie-chan-adventures-static | archive-date=July 5, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><!-- critic of Tucker by a reader: http://www.ew.com/article/2001/02/23/mail //  notable? --> Nancy Imperiale Wellons from the ''[[Orlando Sentinel]]'' said "Virgil has a believable relationship with his family -- including a strong father figure -- but the show's pacing lags."<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2000/09/30/childrens-shows-you-might-want-to-see-and-some-others/ | title=Children's Shows You Might Want To See -- And Some Others | date=September 30, 2000 | author=Wellons, Nancy Imperiale | work=Orlando Sentinel | publisher=Tribune Publishing | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910133049/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2000-09-30/lifestyle/0009290551_1_clifford-disney-channel-book-series | archive-date=September 10, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Paul Schultz wrote for the ''[[New York Daily News]]'' that "Many of the characters -- the conservative, the annoying sister -- are cliches."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/nydn-features/superheroes-changing-world-article-1.895411 | title=Superheroes for a Changing World | author=Schultz, Paul | date=October 15, 2000 | work=New York Daily News | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016212506/http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/nydn-features/superheroes-changing-world-article-1.895411 | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> Thelma Adams criticized the show in the ''[[New York Post]]''; first she called it "formulaic but appealing" and ultimately dubbed it "lame".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://nypost.com/2000/09/29/they-know-what-boys-like/ | title=They Know What Boys Like... | author=Adams, Thelma | date=September 29, 2000 | work=New York Post | publisher=[[News Corp (2013–present)|News Corp]] | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919111453/http://nypost.com/2000/09/29/they-know-what-boys-like/ | archive-date=September 19, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>

==Legacy==
The show's popularity led to new demand for Milestone's Static comics: the first four issues of it were reissued as ''Static Shock: Trial by Fire'' in 2000 and a [[Limited series (comics)|miniseries]], ''Static Shock!: Rebirth of the Cool'', was released between January and September 2001.<ref name=orlando/><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comics.org/issue/260012/ | title=Issue :: Static Shock: Trial By Fire | publisher=[[Grand Comics Database]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919195615/http://www.comics.org/issue/260012/ | archive-date=September 19, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.comics.org/series/14062/covers/ | title=Covers :: Static Shock!: Rebirth of the Cool | publisher=Grand Comics Database | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216234922/http://www.comics.org/series/14062/covers | archive-date=February 16, 2012 | url-status=live}}</ref> It also led to the production of an unreleased video game, toys, and books. In May 2003, [[Midway Games]] announced the production of a [[platform game]] based on the show for the [[Game Boy Advance]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/05/09/e3-2003-first-look-static-shock | title=E3 2003: First Look Static Shock | date=May 9, 2003 | author=Harris, Craig | work=[[IGN]] | publisher=[[Ziff Davis Media]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016014816/http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/05/09/e3-2003-first-look-static-shock | archive-date=October 16, 2013 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=game>{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/05/15/e3-2003-hands-on-static-shock | title=E3 2003: Hands-On: Static Shock | date=May 14, 2003 | work=IGN | publisher=Ziff Davis Media | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131015161016/http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/05/15/e3-2003-hands-on-static-shock | archive-date=October 15, 2013 | url-status=live}}</ref> Although it was displayed at the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo]],<ref name=game/> the game was later cancelled.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/914924-static-shock/index.html | title=Static Shock for Game Boy Advance | work=[[GameRankings]] | publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910031754/http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/914924-static-shock/index.html | archive-date=September 10, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> For a period starting on July 4, 2004, [[Subway Restaurants]] released a series of toys based on the TV series to be offered in the United States and Canada.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.giftsanddec.com/article/366693-static-shock-in-subway-promo | title=Static Shock in Subway promo | date=June 24, 2004 | work=Gifts & Decorative Accessories | author=''[[Playthings (magazine)|Playthings]]'' staff | access-date=June 28, 2015 | publisher=Progressive Business Media | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016213952/http://www.giftsanddec.com/article/366693-static-shock-in-subway-promo | archive-date=October 16, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref> On September 1, 2004, [[Scholastic Corporation]] published two tie-in children's books written by [[Tracey West]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Static Shock Chapter Book #1 |isbn=0439656214 |last1=West |first1=Tracey |last2=Uhley |first2=Len |last3=Wachtel |first3=Brooks |year=2004 |publisher=Scholastic, Incorporated }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Soul Power! (Static Shock Chapter Book, No. 2) |isbn=0439656222 |last1=West |first1=Tracey |last2=Beechen |first2=Adam |last3=Semper |first3=John |year=2004 |publisher=Scholastic, Incorporated }}</ref> 

McDuffie's work on ''Static Shock'' placed him in the circles of animated series, and he became a writer and producer for shows like ''[[Justice League (TV series)|Justice League]]'', ''[[Teen Titans (TV series)|Teen Titans]]'', ''[[Justice League Unlimited]]'', and ''[[Ben 10: Alien Force]]''.<ref name=nyt>{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/24/arts/design/24mcduffie.html | title=Dwayne McDuffie, Comic-Book Writer, Dies at 49 | date=February 24, 2011 | author=Fox, Margalit | work=[[The New York Times]] | access-date=June 28, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611014602/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/24/arts/design/24mcduffie.html?_r=0 | archive-date=June 11, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=kaplan>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aD5iqc89tFcC&pg=PA213 | title=Masters of the Comic Book Universe Revealed! | author=Kaplan, Arie | publisher=[[Chicago Review Press]] | year=2006 | isbn=9781556526336 | pages=213}}</ref> McDuffie was responsible for diversifying the DC animated universe's Justice League by including black and female characters.<ref name=nyt/><ref name=kaplan/> Moreover, [[Arie Kaplan]] credits McDuffie and his co-writers for giving "a depth and complexity" the group was lacking since the 1970s.<ref name=kaplan/> A future, older version of Virgil appeared in the ''Justice League Unlimited'' episode "The Once and Future Thing, Part 2: Time, Warped" in January 2005.<ref name=mcduffieinterview/><ref name=future>{{cite web | url=https://www.avclub.com/justice-league-the-once-and-future-thing-parts-1-2-1798177960 | title=Justice League: "The Once and Future Thing, Parts 1 & 2: Weird Western Tales and Time, Warped" | author=Sava, Oliver | date=September 16, 2013 | work=The A.V. Club | publisher=The Onion | access-date=June 29, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924202115/http://www.avclub.com/tvclub/justice-league-the-once-and-future-thing-parts-1-2-102633 | archive-date=September 24, 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref>{{clear}}

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==Home media==
As part of the DC Animated Universe, a compilation DVD was released on DVD on September 28, 2004.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.dvdempire.com/617654/static-shock-the-new-kid-movie.html | title=DVD Empire &#124; Free Shipping on DVD & Blu-ray Movies }}</ref>

The Complete First Season was released on DVD on March 28, 2017.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/Static-Shock-Complete-First-Season/dp/B06X9VH7G7/ref=pd_aw_fbt_img_sccl_1/146-8872953-0632043?pd_rd_w=QhRaB&content-id=amzn1.sym.f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_p=f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_r=5Q4DC74M6FBVX1HDXVQQ&pd_rd_wg=YgB4N&pd_rd_r=8c758a45-130e-4d53-bc3d-97be86fa44a5&pd_rd_i=B06X9VH7G7&psc=1 | title=Static Shock: The Complete First Season | website=Amazon | date=28 March 2017 }}</ref> The Complete Second Season was released on DVD on May 23, 2017.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07111KYKM/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1 | title=Static Shock: The Complete Second Season | website=Amazon | date=23 May 2017 }}</ref> The Complete Third Season was released on DVD on January 30, 2018.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/Static-Shock-Complete-Third-Season/dp/B0788XWKGW/ref=pd_aw_fbt_thbs_sccl_2/146-8872953-0632043?pd_rd_w=fPuXl&content-id=amzn1.sym.f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_p=f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_r=2TBMVGZ9FTS0Y92N2RPF&pd_rd_wg=O6ger&pd_rd_r=4715b671-5286-4f21-adff-5d77d43aa8cf&pd_rd_i=B0788XWKGW&psc=1 | title=Static Shock: The Complete Third Season | website=Amazon | date=30 January 2018 }}</ref> The Complete Fourth Season was released on DVD on April 13, 2018.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amazon.com/Static-Shock-Complete-Fourth-Season/dp/B07BN6ZHF8/ref=pd_aw_fbt_thbs_sccl_1/146-8872953-0632043?pd_rd_w=fIAEk&content-id=amzn1.sym.f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_p=f68f270b-5796-41a1-997c-20aacd69a693&pf_rd_r=PYT8M59PNHAKRQP8NK4S&pd_rd_wg=RwgKa&pd_rd_r=6ffe58cb-251d-4b0c-8521-d5544afdbd00&pd_rd_i=B07BN6ZHF8&psc=1 | title=Static Shock: The Complete Fourth Season | website=Amazon | date=13 April 2018 }}</ref>

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{wikiquote-inline|Static Shock}}
* {{IMDb title|0247729}}
* [http://www.dccomics.com/tv/static-shock-2000-2004 Official DCComics.com profile]
* [http://www.worldsfinestonline.com/WF/staticshock/ The World's Finest Presents Static Shock]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100526172152/http://www.thewb.com/shows/static-shock/ Static Shock on The WB] (archived as of May 26, 2010)

{{Static (DC Comics)|Static}}
{{DC Animated Universe}}
{{DC Comics animated TV series}}
{{Warner Bros. animation and comics}}
{{Milestone Media}}
{{Kids' WB}}

{{Portal bar|Television|United States|Speculative fiction}}

[[Category:Static Shock| ]]
[[Category:2000s American animated comedy television series]]
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[[Category:American black superhero television shows]]
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