Top 5: Most Underrated DC Comics Characters

When it comes to fierce and fabulous superheroines, DC Comics is home to some of the biggest names around. From Wonder Woman to Batgirl, the publishing giant has had tremendous success with its leading ladies. Even still, there are many heroines who go unnoticed by general audiences. Whether it's due to their lack of appearances in adaptations or development in the comics, these women could use a major boost from the powers-that-be.

Below are the top five most underrated heroines at DC Comics. These fives ladies deserve their own books - stat!

05. Mera

As Aquaman's better half, Mera is a water-wielding warrior whose impetuous nature and loyalty make her a fearsome opponent. She is the exiled Princess of Xebel who abandoned her kingdom after falling for the handsome King of Atlantis.

For years, this red-headed siren was treated as little more than a supporting character for Aquaman. With her unique set of gifts and her unpredictable temperament, she is a compelling individual whose lack of promotion is rather surprising. Thankfully, events such as Brightest Day and the companywide initiative known as the New 52 have renewed interest in Mera. With DC Comics' current investment in the Aquaman franchise, things are looking up for the emerald-clad heroine. 

04. Big Barda

As her name might suggest, Big Barda is a tough and aggressive fighter who abandoned her homeworld of Apokolips to live in suburban bliss with her husband on Earth. Nevertheless, trouble seemed to follow the couple wherever they went and they were occasionally pulled back into the fray as superheroes.

Much like Mera, Big Barda has long lived in the shadow of her husband. As Mister Miracle, Scott Free received top-billing while Barda played second-fiddle. Despite stints on the Justice League and her involvement with the Birds of Prey, the spotlight still seems to elude this warrior. DC Comics would do well to give Barda her own book. She could traverse the galaxies atoning for her past sins with her quirky husband, sort of like an intergalactic version of Xena: Warrior Princess.

03. Vixen

Mari McCabe is a former supermodel turned superhero whose exploits have led to a membership with the Justice League. As Vixen, she has the ability to channel the ability of any animal imaginable, making her one of the most versatile superheroes around.

Vixen was one of DC Comics very first Black superheroes and continues to be one of their most enduring. Unfortunately, she's spent much of her publication history on the D-list, but appearances in Justice League: Unlimited and Batman: The Brave and the Bold have increased her visibility. While she may be more recognizable these days, Vixen still has a long way to go before she reaches the same level of acclaim as Storm or Black Panther. What say we make her a permanent fixture on the Justice League, hm? A solo series would be nice too.

02. Fire and Ice

One is a princess, the other a super spy. Beatriz da Costa and Tora Olaffsdotter, otherwise known as Fire and Ice, wield their abilities as members of the Justice League. The pair have one of the most widely recognized friendships in comics and are known for their opposites-attract sisterhood.

Fire and Ice have seemingly existed on the fringes of the DC Universe forever. Their appearances in offbeat and less mainstream material have earned them cult followings, so naturally they're still unknown to larger  audiences. Even adaptations have relegated them to background characters with limited dialogue. Not only would it be great if they were given greater prominence in the Justice League, but the pair would be excellent candidates for a humour-filled series following their exploits. It could be like Thelma & Louise. You know, if they had superpowers.

01. Donna Troy

Once known as Wonder Woman's teen sidekick Wonder Girl, Donna Troy grew up to be the galaxy-saving heroine Troia. Compassionate and full of heart, Donna was the glue that held the Teen Titans together and played the role of den mother flawlessly.

When it comes to getting the short end of the stick, Donna Troy is a poster child. While the modern Wonder Girl (Cassandra Sandsmark -- hiss!) has been adapted to television and has adventures in the New 52, Donna Troy has been relegated to publication limbo. Despite her integral role in the iconic New Teen Titans era and a tenure on the Justice League, Donna is regularly passed over for her successor and had the misfortune of being tied up in legal red tape when the Teen Titans cartoon was airing. It's sad to think that such an incredible character goes unnoticed by general audiences. Truthfully, she deserves a big push from DC Comics and has the potential to become a heroine in her own right much like Dick Grayson or Barbara Gordon. With that hair and chic costume, she's too stylish to stay D-list!