The Tick, a superhero series that fans argue surpasses The Boys, is now streaming in the UK on Amazon Prime Video. The show, which originally aired from 2016 to 2019, stars British actor Peter Serafinowicz as the titular hero.
What is The Tick?
Based on the comic book by Ben Edlund, The Tick follows a nigh-invulnerable superhero in a blue tick suit who arrives in the City to battle crime and uncover a mysterious underworld figure. He befriends a nervous young man named Arthur, who becomes his sidekick. Together, they discover that a seemingly long-dead supervillain called 'The Terror' may still be pulling the strings.
This is the second live-action series based on the character, following a 2001 Fox series that was cancelled after one season. Amazon released the first season's 12 episodes with a six-month gap, and despite gaining a cult following, the streamer cancelled The Tick after two seasons.
Cast and Performances
Leading the series is Peter Serafinowicz, known for his deadpan delivery, who brings charm to the role. The supporting cast includes Griffin Newman (Masters of the Universe: Revelation), Valorie Curry (Twilight), Brendan Hines (Lie To Me), Yara Martinez (Jane the Virgin), Jackie Earle Haley (Watchmen), Bryan Greenberg (The Mindy Project), and Alan Tudyk (Firefly).
Fan Reactions
Fans on Reddit have praised the series. @Dino-chicken-nugg3t said: "I really enjoyed this show when it was on. It’s funny, quirky, and has a proper conclusion. Even though it could have and should have had more seasons." @ElboDelbo posted: "Amazon's The Tick walked so The Boys could run."
@thenewateam commented: "I feel like Amazon decided to go extremely dark and gritty (DC like) and move away from The Tick (Marvel Like) and in the end The Boys turned out to be a jumbled up mess."
Comparison to The Boys
While The Boys concluded its final season in May 2026, the finale divided fans. Many felt it was rushed after five seasons of buildup. In contrast, The Tick offers a lighter, comedic take on superheroes. Despite its cancellation, the series has a proper conclusion and remains beloved by those who have seen it.
Now that The Tick is available to stream in the UK, new audiences can discover this underrated gem that some fans consider superior to the darker superhero fare.
