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The 60+ Best TV Shows Set In The Future, Ranked

Blast forward in time and help rank the best TV shows set in the future. Since the early days of television, futuristic themes and settings have always been a hot commodity. Whether it's a show from 1996 looking into the crazy future world of 2017 and 2019 or a hilarious cartoon set thousands of years from now, a broad range of TV shows have been set in the future—whenever that may be. From alien communication to flying cars and teleportation, nothing's off-limits when it comes to the future—which is what makes these shows so great. For whatever reason, there's a long list of animated shows set in the future, from the hit cartoon Futurama to the classic Duck Dodgers. Perhaps it's because drawing a futuristic world is easier than physically creating one. Whatever the reason, we'll take it. Of course, top sci-fi shows set in the future also include live-action—and they're often more entertaining. Just think of such titles like Planet of the Apes, Lost in Space, and Doctor Who. In short, there's a wide selection of both modern shows about the future and those made decades ago. What's your favorite show set in the future? Vote up your choices for the best shows set in the future, and see where your favorite futuristic TV shows rank. And if you'd like to take a trip to the past, check out some TV shows set in the 50s.

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  1. 1

    Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

    Watch This Show If You Love: Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Enterprise, Babylon 5, Stargate SG1, Battlestar Galactica (2004) Why Should I Stream? Embark on voyages filled with optimism and hope in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the highly anticipated spinoff from Star Trek: Discovery. This series brings together fan-favorite characters Captain Pike, Mr. Spock, and Number One as they embark on new adventures aboard the USS Enterprise prior to Captain Kirk's command. With its emphasis on exploration and camaraderie reminiscent of The Original Series' spirit, Strange New Worlds is poised to rekindle excitement for long-time fans while also inviting new viewers into the franchise.

    84% upvoted
  2. 2

    Star Trek: The Next Generation

    Watch This Show If You Love: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Enterprise, Babylon 5, Stargate SG1 Why Should I Stream? Join the enduring legacy of Star Trek with The Next Generation (TNG), which continues to influence modern science fiction television with its groundbreaking concepts and meaningful themes. TNG pushes boundaries as it tackles thought-provoking philosophical questions while also delivering engrossing character-driven stories set against breathtaking cosmic backdrops. As one of the most celebrated iterations throughout the Star Trek franchise, TNG is not only iconic but essential viewing for fans old and new alike.

    81% upvoted
  3. 3

    The Orville

    Watch This Show If You Love: Galaxy Quest (Movie), Red Dwarf, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (TV Series), Doctor Who Why Should I Stream? Set sail with The Orville, a delightful homage to classic science fiction television that expertly balances humor and heart. Created by and starring Seth MacFarlane, this series offers engaging stories that touch on contemporary social issues while maintaining an endearing sense of fun and adventure. For fans of Star Trek or those seeking a light-hearted exploration of humanity's future in space, The Orville is sure to entertain.

    80% upvoted
  4. 4

    Star Trek: Voyager

    Watch This Show If You Love: Star Trek: The Next Generation, Babylon 5, Stargate SG1, Farscape, Andromeda Why Should I Stream? Join the crew of the USS Voyager as they traverse uncharted regions of space in their quest to return home—a journey rife with perilous encounters and moral dilemmas. Exploring themes such as family bonds, personal identities, and resilience against adversity, Star Trek: Voyager captivates viewers with compelling storylines and memorable characters while maintaining a sense of hope throughout their odyssey. As another successful installment within the expansive franchise, Voyager is yet another example of why Star Trek endures throughout television history.

    81% upvoted
  5. 5

    Doctor Who

    Watch This Show If You Love: Torchwood, Primeval, Quantum Leap, Sliders, The Sarah Jane Adventures Why Should I Stream? Travel through space and time with Doctor Who, a British sci-fi institution spanning over five decades that continues to captivate viewers with imaginative storytelling and memorable characters. With each regeneration of the titular alien protagonist comes fresh perspectives and unique adventures across countless worlds teeming with wonder, danger, and mystery. As one of television's most resilient franchises boasting an ever-growing global fan base, Doctor Who remains essential viewing for anyone interested in exploring the vast reaches of human imagination.

    80% upvoted
  6. 6

    Star Trek: The Original Series

    Watch This Show If You Love: Doctor Who (Classic), Lost in Space (1965), Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, The Twilight Zone, Space: 1999 Why Should I Stream? Return to where the legendary Star Trek journey began with The Original Series (TOS), an important milestone in television history that has inspired countless adaptations and spinoffs. TOS features Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, and their diverse crew navigating moral dilemmas and complicated relationships while traversing uncharted territories in space. Witness the birth of numerous iconic characters and storylines as they lay the foundation for future generations of science fiction storytelling.

    79% upvoted
  7. 7

    Red Dwarf

    Watch This Show If You Love: Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (TV Series), Doctor Who, Black Books, Spaced, The IT Crowd Why Should I Stream? Inject some humor into your sci-fi diet with Red Dwarf—an endearing British comedy series chronicling the misadventures of an unlikely quartet lost in deep space aboard a massive mining vessel. Combining witty banter with memorable characters and inventive storylines spanning over 30 years on air, this cult classic offers endless entertainment value as it lampoons various tropes within both science fiction and sitcom genres alike. For those seeking breezy escapism infused with interstellar hijinks and irresistible charm, look no further than Red Dwarf.

    82% upvoted
  8. 8

    3 Body Problem

    82% upvoted
  9. 9

    Futurama

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Simpsons, Rick and Morty, Disenchantment, BoJack Horseman, Archer Why Should I Stream? Futurama offers a brilliant fusion of smart humor and innovative storytelling, making it an essential addition to any television enthusiast's watchlist. The series boasts inventive plots that seamlessly blend science fiction concepts with uproarious satire, while its lovable cast of characters comes together to form a truly unforgettable ensemble. Fans can expect endless laughs and plenty of heart as they explore the futuristic world of Futurama.

    73% upvoted
  10. 10

    Firefly

    Watch This Show If You Love: Serenity, Cowboy Bebop, The Mandalorian, Stargate SG-1, Killjoys Why Should I Stream? Immerse in the irresistible charm of Firefly, a beloved space western that has garnered a dedicated fan base since its brief run in 2002. Witness compelling characters navigating a morally complex universe, combining elements of science fiction and western genres to create an enthralling atmosphere. With clever dialogue and intricate relationships at its core, this cult classic will undoubtedly leave viewers yearning for more.

    70% upvoted