Since the start of the Golden Age of Science Fiction in the 1930s, sci-fi TV shows have brought viewers escapism and innovation in the comfort of their own homes. With the debut of the first episode of Star Trek in 1966, studios began to invest more money in science fiction properties, and these series developed dedicated fandoms.
Star Trek’s fandom, Trekkies, paved the way for dedicated fandoms for series like the 90s’ Babylon 5, the British time travel series Doctor Who, the Battlestar Galactica reboot, and even Joss Whedon’s Firefly.
Although Star Trek’s original series broke barriers with its on-screen racial and gender representation, it wasn’t until recent years that serialized sci-fi began to depict the inclusivity the genre deserves. Recent shows such as the Wachowskis’ Sense8, The Expanse, Electric Dreams, Westworld, and more have deviated from the genre’s historic focus on white men colonizing space.
At the same time, recent years have also seen a resurgence of new series based around classic IP, from Star Trek: Discovery to The Mandalorian and Marvel shows like Loki.
With this vast galaxy of content, how does one choose what to watch? The Portalist recommends the best sci-fi shows to stream on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Disney Plus, and beyond.
Prepare to boldly go—and binge—where you’ve never gone before.
“Everyone in the world will come to these gates." -Ray Bradbury
By Jena Brown
Take a bite out of these dark series.
By Jena Brown
Go on an adventure with these epic sci-fi series.
By Jena Brown
Dana's story is officially coming to the small screen.
By Grace Felder
Clone Club, assemble.
By Carolyn Cox
Get to know the Eisner Award-winning comic series.
By Jena Brown
The talented multi-hyphenate continues to inspire generations of fans.
The highly anticipated series has landed its director and lead.
This pop-culture fueled fable is a comforting, quirky adventure.
By Carolyn Cox
The Star Trek: Starfleet Is . . . author shares his relationship with the franchise and why Star Trek fans are the best.
By Smart Pop
Great grabs for any budget and taste.
Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins will write and executive produce.
By Carolyn Cox
Missing Westview already? These five compelling shows might offer the antidote.
By Carly Lane
Does your head have room for these gigs of data?
By Carolyn Cox
Fill the Rocinante-sized hole in your heart.
By Keith Rice