Like the 'Doctor Who' Disney+ reboot? Here are 5 similar sci-fi shows to keep you hooked
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: For fans of adventurous time travel, eccentric characters, and mind-bending plots, 'Doctor Who' has been a staple in science fiction television since its inception in 1963.
The series, known for its imaginative storytelling and iconic protagonist, the Doctor, has inspired numerous other shows that capture similar elements of exploration, adventure, and the fantastical.
The latest series finale of 'Doctor Who' aired on June 22, marking the conclusion of Season 1 in the current series, with Ncuti Gatwa starring as The Fifteenth Doctor.
If you're looking to embark on new journeys through time and space, here are five sci-fi shows that echo the spirit of 'Doctor Who' while offering their own unique twists:
Red Dwarf (1988 )
'Red Dwarf' is a beloved British sci-fi sitcom that has aired since 1988. It follows the adventures of a small, quirky crew on a mining ship who survives a catastrophe and, after three million years, aims to return to Earth.
Known for its humor and creative stories, the series blends sci-fi elements with comedy, occasionally dabbling in time travel. The show stars Craig Charles as Lister, the last human alive, alongside a neurotic hologram, a neat-freak robot, and a creature evolved from the ship’s cat.
Despite its modest budget, 'Red Dwarf' remains a classic of British television, celebrated for its witty humor and memorable characters.
You can watch 'Red Dwarf ' on Prime Video
Torchwood (2006 - 2011)
If you're a fan of 'Doctor Who' and want something similar, 'Torchwood' is a great choice. It's a spin-off from the same era as the modern 'Doctor Who' series and was created by Russell T Davies, who brought back 'Doctor Who' in 2005.
Set in Wales, Torchwood follows a team who hunt aliens to protect Earth from threats. John Barrowman stars as Captain Jack Harkness, a character first introduced in 'Doctor Who' in 2005.
Although it's part of the same universe, Torchwood has a more mature tone that might not be suitable for younger 'Doctor Who' fans.
You can watch 'Torchwood' on Prime Video.
The Umbrella Academy (2019)
If you're into stories about unconventional families, 'The Umbrella Academy' is a must-watch. This show offers a darker take on superheroes, based on Gerard Way's comic.
It follows the Hargreeves family, seven siblings with superpowers adopted by the eccentric billionaire Sir Reginald Hargreeves. Despite being raised as a crime-fighting team, they grow apart as they age.
When Reginald dies, the siblings reunite, only to face a looming apocalypse. They must put aside their differences to solve their father's death and save the world, even if they can't stop squabbling amongst themselves.
The series is filled with twists and turns, but at its core, it's about a dysfunctional family bonded by trauma. The mix of sibling rivalry and genuine care will resonate with anyone who has brothers or sisters.
You can watch 'The Umbrella Academy' on Netflix.
The Sarah Jane Adventures (2007 - 2011)
Another spin-off series from 'Doctor Who' worth watching is 'The Sarah Jane Adventures', which surpasses 'Class'. Sarah Jane Smith, a former companion of the Doctor, leads the show.
Alongside her bright son Luke and a few neighborhood kids, Sarah Jane confronts aliens and other dangers.
'The Sarah Jane Adventures' targets children primarily but its imaginative and clever stories also appeal to adults.
A treat for Doctor Who fans is the occasional appearance of the Doctor himself! The series ran for 5 seasons and ended due to the unfortunate and untimely death of Elisabeth Sladen.
You can watch 'The Sarah Jane Adventures' on Prime Video.
Firefly (2002-2003)
Arguably the best TV show ever produced by Joss Whedon, 'Firefly' garnered a massive fan following who fought to save it after its first season was canceled.
While the plot didn’t fully resolve before its cancellation, the exceptional cast compensates for it.
The series features Whedon's trademark snappy dialogue and deeply heartfelt exchanges between characters. As a space-western, 'Firefly' stands out, even though fans had to turn to comics for closure.
You can watch 'Firefly' on Prime Video.
'Doctor Who' trailer
All eight episodes of 'Doctor Who' are available to stream on Disney+