Rediscovering ‘Human Target’: The Forgotten DC Gem That Deserves a Second Look
Table of Contents
Fifteen years after its debut, the stylish action drama Human Target remains a largely overlooked entry in the landscape of early 21st-century television. Premiering in 2010 as a mid-season replacement on Fox, the series offered a unique blend of spy thriller and superhero intrigue, rooted in a DC Comics character and boasting a charismatic lead in Mark Valley. For those seeking a compelling, comic book-inspired series that has flown somewhat under the radar, Human Target is well worth revisiting.
From Comic Book Roots to the Small Screen
Human Target wasn’t the first attempt to adapt the DC Comics character of Christopher Chance for television. Created by Len Wein and Carmine Infantino in the 1970s – and distinct from a separate iteration from the 1950s – Chance is a former assassin who protects his clients by becoming them, effectively acting as a “human target” to draw out threats. The character appeared sporadically in DC titles like Detective Comics and Action Comics over the decades, but it was Jericho co-creator Jonathan E. Steinberg who truly unlocked his potential with this adaptation. While a previous attempt aired on ABC in the 1990s with Rick Springfield in the lead role, the Fox version is the one that resonated most strongly with audiences.
A Fresh Take on the Action Hero
Mark Valley’s portrayal of Christopher Chance breathed new life into the character, supported by a dynamic cast including Chi McBride as Winston and Jackie Earle Haley as Guerrero. Their close relationships weren’t merely plot devices; they enriched Chance’s world and added layers to his complex personality. According to one source, Human Target distinguished itself early on with its infusion of humor into intense action sequences – a stylistic choice that would later become commonplace in Hollywood. Despite diverging from the original comic book source material, the show remained true to the core concept of Chance’s mission, delivering plenty of on-screen charisma and engaging storylines.
Over two seasons and 25 episodes, Human Target consistently delivered high-octane adventures, packed with guest stars, explosive action, and witty banter. The show’s first season featured a rousing and orchestral score composed by Bear McCreary, known for his work on Battlestar Galactica and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, further establishing its credibility as a serious network drama. The series was designed to be accessible, just as Chance briefed his clients, making it easy for viewers familiar or unfamiliar with the DC Comics origins to jump in.
A Perfect Fit for Television
Fresh off his role in Fringe, Mark Valley proved to be the ideal actor to embody Christopher Chance. He consistently projected an air of confidence, and his charisma set him apart from many action heroes on network television. Valley’s military background – having served in the U.S. Army – lent authenticity to the role, though he once remarked that the on-screen dangers were far more exhilarating than his real-life experiences. He brought a swagger reminiscent of James Bond combined with the investigative skills of Batman to the character.
The show delved into Chance’s past, exploring his attempts to forge a new life while constantly being haunted by his former life as an assassin. His complicated history often put his team in danger, forcing him to confront figures from his past, like Baptiste, played by Lennie James. However, at its heart, Human Target was a story of redemption, showcasing a former killer dedicated to protecting lives. It was a familiar narrative, but one that the show made its own through its compelling characters and clever plots.
A Premature Cancellation
Following a successful first season, Fox opted to shake things up for Season 2, with Jonathan E. Steinberg departing and Matt Miller taking the helm. Two new characters – financier Ilsa Pucci (Indira Varma) and former thief Ames (Janet Montgomery) – were introduced to Chance’s team. While Valley and Haley expressed excitement about these changes, the results were mixed. Some viewers felt the new additions diluted the show’s original appeal, while others appreciated the fresh dynamics and expanded storylines.
Ultimately, Human Target was not renewed for a third season. The show faded into relative obscurity, with Mark Valley’s portrayal of Chance largely forgotten. A later iteration of the character appeared in the Arrowverse, played by Will Traval, but lacked any connection to the Fox series. The second season was never released on home video, making it difficult to find today. Despite its potential, Human Target was swept aside, though it thankfully concluded without a frustrating cliffhanger, allowing for a satisfying two-season binge.
