The series was in development as early as October 2014, produced by David S. Goyer with Ian Goldberg as writer and executive producer, and Damian Kindler serving as showrunner.

Hawkwoman was originally considered for the series but showrunners decided not to include her in the first season because she did not fit into the ongoing storylines.

Regé-Jean Page auditioned for the role of Seg-El but was reportedly not cast because former DC executive Geoff Johns believed the character needed to resemble Superman actor Henry Cavill, due to fan perception that the show could be a prequel to Man of Steel.

Adam Strange was intended by the show's creators to be an LGBTQ+ character, but this was reportedly only implied on screen following alleged interference from former DC executive Geoff Johns.

Production on the pilot was originally slated to begin in Montreal in 2016, but ultimately the pilot was filmed in Serbia, directed by Colm McCarthy.

The second season began filming in October 2018 in Belfast and wrapped on March 3, 2019.

The first season received mixed reviews, holding 60% on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 53/100, while the second season was much better received, earning a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

A planned spin-off centered on the character Lobo, to be produced by Cameron Welsh, was announced in June 2019 but was cancelled two months later alongside Krypton's cancellation after its second season.