Top 20 Fan-Favorite Sci-Fi & Fantasy TV Shows Ever!

Greetings, fellow space travelers and dragon tamers! Welcome to our intergalactic, interdimensional, and inter-era journey through the cosmos of television. We’re about to embark on a quest to explore the “Top 20 Fan-Favorite Sci-Fi & Fantasy TV Shows Ever!” These are the shows that have transported us to alien worlds, flung us into the heart of epic battles, and introduced us to characters as diverse as time-traveling doctors and telepathic vampires. They’ve made us question reality, ponder the future, and, on occasion, hide behind the couch. So, whether you’re a seasoned sci-fi aficionado or a fantasy first-timer, buckle up! We’re about to warp speed into a universe where the only limit is the imagination. Prepare to be thrilled, chilled, and filled with wonder. Let’s boldly go where no TV remote has gone before!
Stranger Things

Stranger Things

Release Date: 2016-07-15

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery

“Stranger Things” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that has captured the hearts of viewers since its release in 2016. Set in a small town, the story revolves around a mysterious disappearance of a young boy, leading to a captivating journey filled with secret experiments, supernatural forces, and a peculiar girl. With an incredible cast including Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, and Winona Ryder, this show is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Millie Bobby Brown (Jane “Eleven” Hopper) , David Harbour (Jim Hopper) , Joe Keery (Steve Harrington) , Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers) , Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler) , Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson) , Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair) , Noah Schnapp (Will Byers) , Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler) , Matthew Modine (Martin Brenner) , Charlie Heaton (Jonathan Byers) , Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield) , Maya Hawke (Robin Buckley) , Brett Gelman (Murray Bauman) , Priah Ferguson (Erica Sinclair) , Paul Reiser (Sam Owens)

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Tags: friendship, small town, sheriff, monster, experiment, love triangle, skateboarding, supernatural, halloween, redemption, nostalgia, drug scene, telekinesis, coming of age, cheerleading, evil corporation, female protagonist, psychological thriller, single mother, parallel world, super power, missing person, missing child, computer nerd, government conspiracy, chief of police, family tension, superhero kids, teen drama, 1980s, 80s throwback, supernatural horror, teen romance, male protagonist, horror

The Umbrella Academy

The Umbrella Academy

“The Umbrella Academy” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that revolves around a dysfunctional family of superheroes. Released on February 15, 2019, the series follows these extraordinary individuals as they unite to uncover the truth behind their father’s death, battle the impending apocalypse, and face a myriad of other mysterious challenges. With a talented cast including Aidan Gallagher, Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Robert Sheehan, David Castañeda, Justin H. Min, Ritu Arya, Colm Feore, and Génesis Rodríguez, this show is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Aidan Gallagher (Number Five) , Elliot Page (Vanya Hargreeves / Viktor Hargreeves / Number Seven) , Tom Hopper (Luther Hargreeves / Number One) , Emmy Raver-Lampman (Allison Hargreeves / Number Three) , Robert Sheehan (Klaus Hargreeves / Number Four) , David Castañeda (Diego Hargreeves / Number Two) , Justin H. Min (Ben Hargreeves / Number Six) , Ritu Arya (Lila Pitts) , Colm Feore (Sir Reginald Hargreeves) , Génesis Rodríguez (Sloane Hargreeves)

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Writers: Gabriel Bá, Gerard Way

Tags: superhero, time travel, dysfunctional family, based on comic, alternate history, apocalypse, universe, super power, end of world, siblings, children

The Originals

The Originals

Release Date: 2013-10-03

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Mystery

“The Originals” is a thrilling spin-off from “The Vampire Diaries” that takes place in the enchanting city of New Orleans. It follows the captivating story of the Mikaelson siblings – Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah – who happen to be the world’s original vampires. After years of absence, Klaus returns to reclaim his city from his former protégé, Marcel, who now rules over New Orleans. With a mix of supernatural powers, family drama, and a brewing war, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat. Starring Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Charles Michael Davis, and an incredible cast, “The Originals” is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and sci-fi.

Cast: Joseph Morgan (Klaus Mikaelson) , Daniel Gillies (Elijah Mikaelson) , Charles Michael Davis (Marcel Gerard) , Riley Voelkel (Freya Mikaelson) , Yusuf Gatewood (Vincent Griffith) , Danielle Rose Russell (Hope Mikaelson) , Steven Krueger (Joshua “Josh” Rosza)

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Tags: witch, vampire, new orleans, louisiana, battle for power, rivalry, werewolf, spin off

Shadow Hunter

Shadow Hunter

Release Date: 2005-12-08

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Shadow Hunter” is a captivating documentary series that delves into the world of the paranormal. Hosted by the renowned ghost hunter, best-selling author, and parapsychology expert, Darryll Walsh, this show takes you on a thrilling journey exploring the unexplained. With its release in 2005, it has become a must-watch for all fans of sci-fi and fantasy TV shows.

Cast: Darryll Walsh (Self – Host)

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Teen Wolf

Teen Wolf

Release Date: 2011-06-05

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Teen Wolf” is an exciting sci-fi and fantasy TV show that follows the life of Scott McCall, a regular high school student whose world turns upside down when he gets bitten by a werewolf. As he navigates his newfound identity, Scott must find a balance between his teenage life and the challenges that come with being a werewolf. With a talented cast including Tyler Posey, Dylan O’Brien, and Holland Roden, this thrilling series explores Scott’s journey to protect his loved ones while maintaining a sense of normalcy. Premiering in 2011, “Teen Wolf” has captivated audiences with its intriguing storyline and compelling characters.

Cast: Tyler Posey (Scott McCall) , Dylan O’Brien (Stiles Stilinski) , Holland Roden (Lydia Martin) , Shelley Hennig (Malia Tate) , Dylan Sprayberry (Liam Dunbar) , Linden Ashby (Noah Stilinski) , Melissa Ponzio (Melissa McCall) , JR Bourne (Chris Argent)

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Tags: high school, supernatural, werewolf, creature, interspecies romance, teenager

Wednesday

Wednesday

Release Date: 2022-11-23

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Comedy

“Wednesday” is an exciting new TV show set to premiere on November 23, 2022. It follows the adventures of Wednesday Addams as she attends Nevermore Academy, a peculiar boarding school. With a talented cast including Jenna Ortega, Emma Myers, and Gwendoline Christie, the show promises to be a thrilling mix of supernatural mystery, psychic powers, and a quest to uncover a family secret that has haunted them for 25 years. Get ready for a gripping storyline, intriguing relationships, and a monstrous killing spree that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Jenna Ortega (Wednesday Addams / Goody Addams) , Emma Myers (Enid Sinclair) , Joy Sunday (Bianca Barclay) , Percy Hynes White (Xavier Thorpe) , Hunter Doohan (Tyler Galpin) , Gwendoline Christie (Larissa Weems) , Riki Lindhome (Valerie Kinbott) , Jamie McShane (Donovan Galpin) , Moosa Mostafa (Eugene Otinger) , Christina Ricci (Marilyn Thornhill) , Georgie Farmer (Ajax Petropolus) , Naomi J. Ogawa (Yoko Tanaka)

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Writers: Charles Addams

Tags: witch, friendship, gothic, macabre, dark fantasy

Legacies

Legacies

Release Date: 2018-10-25

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Legacies” is a captivating sci-fi and fantasy TV show that takes place at The Salvatore School for the Young and Gifted. Set in a world where young witches, vampires, and werewolves strive to overcome their dark instincts, the series follows the journey of 17-year-old Hope Mikaelson, the daughter of Klaus Mikaelson. Alongside her friends, including Alaric Saltzman’s twins Lizzie and Josie Saltzman, they navigate the challenges of coming of age as both heroes and villains. With a talented cast including Danielle Rose Russell, Aria Shahghasemi, and Matthew Davis, “Legacies” premiered on October 25, 2018, and has become one of the best-voted sci-fi and fantasy TV shows of all time.

Cast: Danielle Rose Russell (Hope Mikaelson) , Aria Shahghasemi (Landon Kirby) , Matthew Davis (Alaric Saltzman) , Kaylee Bryant (Josie Saltzman) , Jenny Boyd (Lizzie Saltzman) , Quincy Fouse (Milton “MG” Greasley) , Chris Lee (Kaleb Hawkins) , Ben Levin (Jed Tien) , Leo Howard (Ethan Machado)

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Writers: Hannah Rosner

Tags: witch, vampire, supernatural, werewolf, spin off

Lucifer

Lucifer

Release Date: 2016-01-25

Genres: Crime, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Lucifer” is a captivating sci-fi and fantasy TV show that follows the story of Lucifer Morningstar, the former Lord of Hell, who decides to leave his throne and settle in Los Angeles. Teaming up with LAPD detective Chloe Decker, they form an unlikely partnership to bring down criminals. As Lucifer adapts to his new life on Earth, the danger of humanity’s worst escaping grows, making for an intriguing and thrilling series. Starring Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Kevin Alejandro, D.B. Woodside, Lesley-Ann Brandt, Aimee Garcia, Rachael Harris, and Brianna Hildebrand, “Lucifer” premiered on January 25, 2016.

Cast: Tom Ellis (Lucifer Morningstar / Michael) , Lauren German (Chloe Decker) , Kevin Alejandro (Dan Espinoza) , D.B. Woodside (Amenadiel) , Lesley-Ann Brandt (Mazikeen “Maze”) , Aimee Garcia (Ella Lopez) , Rachael Harris (Linda Martin) , Brianna Hildebrand (Rory)

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Writers: Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, Mike Dringenberg

Tags: based on comic, los angeles, california, devil, lapd

The Twilight Zone

The Twilight Zone

Release Date: 1959-10-02

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Drama

“The Twilight Zone” is a classic sci-fi and fantasy TV show that premiered on October 2, 1959. Hosted by Rod Serling, it features a collection of unrelated stories filled with drama, psychological thrills, fantasy, science fiction, suspense, and even horror. Each episode concludes with a macabre or unexpected twist, making it a must-watch for fans of mind-bending storytelling.

Cast: Rod Serling (Self – Host)

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Tags: computer, escape, time travel, anthology, alien, misfit, social commentary, space, robot, second chance, wishes come true, morality tale, humanoid alien, horror

The Boys

The Boys

“The Boys” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that has been voted as one of the best of all time. It follows a group of regular people called “The Boys” who take on corrupt superheroes using their blue-collar determination and a willingness to fight dirty. With a star-studded cast including Jack Quaid, Karl Urban, and Erin Moriarty, this action-packed series premiered on July 25, 2019, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Jack Quaid (Hughie Campbell) , Karl Urban (Billy Butcher) , Antony Starr (John Gillman / Homelander) , Erin Moriarty (Annie January / Starlight) , Dominique McElligott (Queen Maeve) , Jessie T. Usher (A-Train) , Laz Alonso (Mother’s Milk) , Chace Crawford (Kevin Moskowitz / The Deep) , Tomer Capone (Frenchie) , Nathan Mitchell (Black Noir) , Karen Fukuhara (Kimiko / The Female) , Colby Minifie (Ashley Barrett) , Claudia Doumit (Victoria Neuman) , Jensen Ackles (Soldier Boy)

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Tags: superhero, gore, based on comic, revenge, nudity

The Mandalorian

The Mandalorian

“The Mandalorian” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that takes place in a galaxy plagued by lawlessness after the fall of the Galactic Empire. The story follows a lone gunfighter, played by Pedro Pascal, as he navigates the outer reaches of the galaxy, working as a bounty hunter to make a living. With Katee Sackhoff also starring, this action-packed series premiered on November 12, 2019, and has quickly become one of the best-voted sci-fi and fantasy shows of all time.

Cast: Pedro Pascal (Din Djarin / The Mandalorian) , Katee Sackhoff (Bo-Katan Kryze)

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Writers: George Lucas

Tags: bounty hunter, space western, space opera, space exploration

House of the Dragon

House of the Dragon

“House of the Dragon” is an exciting new fantasy TV show set to release on August 21, 2022. Set in the world of dragons and empires, it follows the powerful Targaryen dynasty at the height of their rule, with over 15 dragons under their control. The story takes a thrilling turn when King Viserys breaks tradition by naming his daughter as his heir, leading to a slow fall and division within the realm. With a talented cast including Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Paddy Considine, Matt Smith, Rhys Ifans, and Robert Ryan, this show promises to be a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and fantasy.

Cast: Emma D’Arcy (Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen) , Olivia Cooke (Alicent Hightower) , Paddy Considine (King Viserys I Targaryen) , Matt Smith (Prince Daemon Targaryen) , Rhys Ifans (Ser Otto Hightower) , Robert Ryan (Household Targaryen Guard)

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Writers: George R. R. Martin

Tags: based on novel or book, giant monster, knight, dragon, king, fantasy world

Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones

“Game of Thrones” is a captivating fantasy TV show that takes place in the mythical land of Westeros. It follows the intense power struggles between seven noble families, which eventually lead to a full-scale war. As if that wasn’t enough, an ancient evil awakens in the far north, while a group of misfit soldiers called the Night’s Watch tries to protect the realms of men from icy horrors. With a talented cast including Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, and Emilia Clarke, this epic series has been captivating audiences since its release in 2011.

Cast: Peter Dinklage (Tyrion ‘The Halfman’ Lannister) , Kit Harington (Jon Snow) , Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Sir Jaime ‘Kingslayer’ Lannister) , Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) , Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) , Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth) , Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) , Isaac Hempstead-Wright (Brandon ‘Bran’ Stark) , Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) , John Bradley (Samwell ‘Sam’ Tarly) , Rory McCann (Sandor ‘The Hound’ Clegane) , Joe Dempsie (Gendry) , Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth) , Jacob Anderson (Grey Worm)

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Writers: George R. R. Martin

Tags: based on novel or book, kingdom, dragon, king, intrigue, fantasy world

Dark

Dark

Release Date: 2017-12-01

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery

“Dark” is a captivating sci-fi and fantasy TV show that premiered on December 1, 2017. The story revolves around a missing child, which brings together four families who join forces to uncover the truth. Little do they know, their quest for answers unravels a web of countless other secrets lurking within their small town. Starring Louis Hofmann and Karoline Eichhorn, this thrilling series is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Louis Hofmann (Jonas Kahnwald) , Karoline Eichhorn (Charlotte Dopple)

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Tags: small town, cave, investigation, time travel, surrealism, nuclear power plant, time machine, cop, woods, priest, disappearance, time loop, incest, missing child, alternate timeline, watchmaker, mysterious past, family crisis

The X-Files

The X-Files

Release Date: 1993-09-10

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Crime

“The X-Files” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that follows FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena. Mulder, a firm believer in aliens and the supernatural, teams up with Scully, a skeptic who uses scientific analysis to debunk his findings. With captivating performances by David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, this iconic show has been captivating audiences since its release in 1993.

Cast: David Duchovny (Fox Mulder) , Gillian Anderson (Dana Scully) , Mitch Pileggi (Walter Skinner)

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Tags: fbi, investigation, supernatural, paranormal phenomena, alien, ufo, conspiracy, paranormal investigation, phenomenon, american folklore, supernatural power

Severance

Severance

Release Date: 2022-02-17

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Severance” is a thrilling sci-fi and fantasy TV show that explores the intriguing concept of surgically dividing memories between work and personal lives. Led by a talented cast including Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, and Christopher Walken, the story follows a team of office workers who embark on a journey to uncover the truth about their jobs when a mysterious colleague appears outside of work. Get ready for a mind-bending adventure when this highly anticipated series premieres on February 17, 2022.

Cast: Adam Scott (Mark Scout) , Britt Lower (Helly Riggs) , Zach Cherry (Dylan George) , Tramell Tillman (Seth Milchick) , Jen Tullock (Devon) , Dichen Lachman (Ms. Casey) , Michael Chernus (Ricken Hale) , John Turturro (Irving Bailiff) , Christopher Walken (Burt Goodman) , Patricia Arquette (Harmony Cobel)

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Writers: Helen Leigh

Tags: office, workplace, memory, office politics, brain surgery, team work

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” is a beloved sci-fi TV show that premiered in 1987. Join Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his dedicated crew as they embark on thrilling adventures aboard the USS Enterprise NCC-1701D, exploring uncharted territories and encountering new civilizations. With a talented cast including Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Marina Sirtis, LeVar Burton, and Gates McFadden, this show takes you on an intergalactic journey like no other.

Cast: Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard) , Jonathan Frakes (William T. Riker) , Brent Spiner (Data) , Michael Dorn (Worf) , Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) , LeVar Burton (Geordi La Forge) , Gates McFadden (Beverly Crusher)

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Tags: spacecraft, oxygen, space travel, alien, space, alien planet, trek, space opera, adventurer

Halo

Halo

“Halo” is an exciting sci-fi and fantasy TV show set in the 26th century, where humanity is engaged in a thrilling conflict against an alien threat called the Covenant. With a talented cast including Pablo Schreiber, Natascha McElhone, and Jen Taylor, the series combines gripping personal stories with action-packed adventures and a captivating vision of the future. Get ready to immerse yourself in this epic battle when “Halo” premieres on March 24, 2022.

Cast: Pablo Schreiber (Master Chief / John-117) , Natascha McElhone (Dr. Catherine Halsey) , Jen Taylor (Cortana (voice)) , Yerin Ha (Kwan Ha) , Charlie Murphy (Makee) , Shabana Azmi (Margaret Parangosky) , Danny Sapani (Jacob Keyes) , Olive Gray (Dr. Miranda Keyes) , Kate Kennedy (Kai-125) , Natasha Culzac (Riz-028) , Bentley Kalu (Vannak-134) , Bokeem Woodbine (Soren-066)

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Tags: space travel, alien, distant future, based on video game, future war

The Vampire Diaries

The Vampire Diaries

Release Date: 2009-09-10

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Vampire Diaries” is a captivating supernatural TV show that premiered in 2009. It follows the story of two vampire brothers, played by Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder, who both fall for a girl that resembles a vampire they loved in the past. With an intriguing plot filled with romance, drama, and a touch of fantasy, this series is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Paul Wesley (Stefan Salvatore) , Ian Somerhalder (Damon Salvatore) , Kat Graham (Bonnie Bennett) , Candice King (Caroline Forbes) , Zach Roerig (Matt Donovan) , Michael Malarkey (Enzo St. John) , Matthew Davis (Alaric Saltzman)

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Writers: L.J. Smith

Tags: witch, based on novel or book, love triangle, vampire, supernatural, eternal youth, werewolf, supernatural creature, doppelgänger, eternal love, interspecies romance, based on young adult novel

Peacemaker

Peacemaker

“Peacemaker” is an upcoming sci-fi and fantasy TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted shows of all time. Starring John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, and more talented actors, it follows the story of a man named Peacemaker who is obsessed with achieving peace, even if it means resorting to violence. Set in the aftermath of “The Suicide Squad,” this action-packed series is set to premiere on January 13, 2022.

Cast: John Cena (Christopher Smith / Peacemaker) , Danielle Brooks (Leota Adebayo) , Freddie Stroma (Adrian Chase / Vigilante) , Chukwudi Iwuji (Clemson Murn) , Jennifer Holland (Emilia Harcourt) , Steve Agee (John Economos) , Robert Patrick (August ‘Auggie’ Smith / White Dragon) , Annie Chang (Sophie Song) , Lochlyn Munro (Larry Fitzgibbon)

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Tags: superhero, dark comedy, based on comic, aftercreditsstinger, dc extended universe (dceu)

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