The Zeta Project (2001 — 2002)

The Zeta Project (2001–2002), an American science fiction animated series by Warner Bros. Animation, debuted on Kids’ WB in January 2001. It’s the sixth installment in the DC Animated Universe and is centered around the character Zeta from a Batman Beyond episode of the same name. Drawing inspiration from Frankenstein, Blade Runner, and The Fugitive, the show follows Zeta and Ro as they work to clear his name. Hunted by NSA agents who believe he has been reprogrammed by terrorists, Zeta and Ro search for his elusive creator, Dr. Selig. Originally imagined as a darker series, The Zeta Project was instead picked up and lightened for a younger audience, with Goodman envisioning ‘a robot and teenage girl having fun’ as its main appeal.

The show’s creators assured viewers that Zeta’s travels would not always lead him to gloomy, gothic settings like Gotham City in Batman Beyond. Unfortunately, due to certain limitations, Goodman’s original plans to address themes of corrupt government, technology misuse, and social and political issues faced obstacles. Despite the decision to lighten the tone of the final product, Kid’s WB deemed The Zeta Project too dark throughout its airtime. In fact, following the events of September 11th and given its focus on terrorism and commentary on the NSA, there were discussions about canceling the show entirely. However, it ultimately continued for one more season before Goodman departed amidst concerns that network demands were steering it away from his artistic vision.