The CW’s The Flash has brought Barry Allen, played by Grant Gustin, into viewers’ lives for over seven seasons. With another season on the way, his place as one of television’s most endearing characters is well-deserved. Although he may not have the intimidating presence of Superman or Batman, Barry Allen possesses unique qualities that make him irreplaceable on TV. Here are several reasons why Barry is one of television’s greatest characters and why he will be missed when The Flash ultimately concludes.
Barry Is an Unshakably Good Character
Barry Allen faced severe hardships: his mother was murdered by his future enemy, Reverse-Flash, and his father was wrongfully imprisoned. Despite these traumatic experiences, Barry didn’t succumb to bitterness or resentment; instead, he became a symbol of hope. Grant Gustin’s portrayal showcases Barry’s deep compassion and moral integrity. Unlike many heroes, Barry avoids taking extreme measures, always striving for peace and understanding first. Even when confronted by antagonists like Savitar, who posed a lethal threat to his loved ones, Barry remained committed to his principles. His insistence on kindness, even to a fault, highlights his strength and sets him apart from many other heroes.
He’s the Kind of Guy Who Runs Across the World for Food
Barry Allen’s incredible speed allows him to indulge in small, quirky habits, like sprinting across cities—or even countries—for a meal. This lighthearted aspect of his character adds relatability, reminding fans that even heroes have simple pleasures. Occasionally, Barry’s adventures for food are featured, showcasing his willingness to do the same for friends. This highlights his selflessness and emphasizes that while he takes his hero duties seriously, he still embraces life’s simpler joys.
He’s Evolved as a Hero
Since the early seasons, Barry Allen has undergone tremendous growth. Initially, each season’s main conflict revolved around him getting faster to defeat the next villain. However, over time, Barry’s development included outsmarting enemies, learning restraint, and sometimes defeating foes with empathy rather than force. The show experimented with new ways of evolving Barry’s skills beyond speed, portraying him as a more complex and versatile hero.
A Loyal Friend and Devoted Husband
Barry Allen is a fiercely loyal friend and a dedicated husband to Iris West. His friendships with characters like Cisco, Caitlin, and even certain villains reveal his capacity for deep connections. Barry’s loyalty doesn’t waver, and he treats Team Flash as family. He even found time to renew his vows with Iris after significant challenges, demonstrating his love and commitment. His enduring relationships and loyalty set him apart, making him an inspiring figure in the Arrowverse.
A Hero Bound to Central City
Though Barry could theoretically save people across the country, he has chosen to devote himself to Central City. While other heroes like Superman rush wherever needed, Barry primarily focuses on his city, allowing fans to see his dedication to his hometown. This focus also raises interesting questions about his character, as he clearly prioritizes Central City, giving a unique twist on the hero’s journey.
A True Team Player
Barry Allen is willing to share the spotlight and rely on Team Flash. Instead of taking all the credit, he regularly acknowledges the efforts of others, from Cisco to Caitlin to multiple versions of Harrison Wells. A humble hero who recognizes the importance of collaboration, Barry shows that being a great hero is not just about individual feats, but about working together. His humility and acknowledgment of his team’s contributions enhance his appeal.
In short, Barry Allen stands out as one of television’s best characters because he embodies resilience, kindness, loyalty, and humility. These qualities, brought to life by Grant Gustin’s performance, make him irreplaceable and a treasured part of superhero television.
