Exploring the Best Sci-Fi TV Shows from the '70s and '80s

The 1970s and 1980s were transformative decades for science fiction television. During this golden age, the genre evolved with groundbreaking concepts, imaginative storytelling, and memorable characters. From spacefaring adventures to dystopian sagas, these decades delivered an array of shows that not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of what sci-fi could be. Let’s dive into some of the most iconic and lesser-known sci-fi TV shows from the ’70s and ’80s, highlighting their unique contributions and enduring legacy.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Sci-Fi TV in the ’70s and ’80s

The Golden Era of Sci-Fi Television

In the ’70s and ’80s, sci-fi TV shows thrived on creativity, with many series exploring futuristic themes, space travel, and extraterrestrial life. These shows not only captivated audiences but also influenced the genre’s direction for years to come. The era was marked by a mix of high-concept series and imaginative storytelling that remains influential today.

The Impact of Sci-Fi on Popular Culture

The sci-fi TV shows from these decades have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Their innovative ideas and unforgettable characters have inspired countless other works, from modern TV series and movies to books and video games. The themes of these shows continue to resonate, reflecting societal anxieties and hopes of the time.

Iconic Sci-Fi TV Shows from the 1970s and 1980s

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

A New Era of Star Trek

Star Trek: The Next Generation stands as one of the most influential sci-fi TV shows of all time. Following in the footsteps of Gene Roddenberry’s original series, this show introduced a new crew aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise-D, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, portrayed by Sir Patrick Stewart. This iteration of Star Trek was notable for its thoughtful storytelling, complex characters, and moral dilemmas.

The Legacy of Captain Picard

Captain Picard, with his intellectual approach and ethical considerations, became a new icon in the Star Trek universe. His portrayal earned Sir Patrick Stewart critical acclaim and solidified the show’s place in sci-fi history. Star Trek: The Next Generation not only continued the legacy of its predecessor but expanded it with new storylines, deeper character development, and philosophical questions that remain relevant.

The Six Million Dollar Man (1974-1978)

A Cyborg Hero for the Ages

The Six Million Dollar Man brought cyborg heroes to television screens with its protagonist, Steve Austin, portrayed by Lee Majors. Based on Martin Caidin’s novel Cyborg, the show revolved around a former astronaut who, after a catastrophic accident, is rebuilt with bionic implants. Known for its iconic sound effects and catchphrases, the series explored themes of technology and human enhancement in a way that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Show’s Cultural Impact

The series was groundbreaking for its time, offering a unique blend of science fiction and action. The concept of bionic enhancements captured the imagination of viewers and became a cultural touchstone, influencing other shows and media in the genre. The sound effects and special effects used in the series were also innovative, setting a high bar for future sci-fi productions.

V (1984-1985)

An Alien Invasion Classic

NBC’s V presented a gripping tale of alien invaders who initially appear benevolent but are revealed to have sinister motives. The series, created by Kenneth Johnson, combined elements of science fiction with political allegory, exploring themes of resistance and authoritarianism. Robert Englund’s role as the sympathetic alien “Visitor” Willie was a standout performance, adding depth to the series.

The Show’s Legacy and Reboot

The original miniseries was followed by a continuation and a series that expanded on its premise. The show’s themes of deception and resistance against a seemingly benevolent oppressor resonated with audiences and have influenced subsequent sci-fi narratives. The rebooted series in the 2000s brought the story back to the forefront of sci-fi TV, reflecting its lasting appeal.

Mork & Mindy (1978-1982)

A Comedic Alien Adventure

Mork & Mindy, featuring Robin Williams as the eccentric alien Mork from the planet Ork, was a comedic spin-off from Happy Days. The show’s premise, which centered around Mork’s experiences living with a human woman named Mindy (Pam Dawber), blended humor with sci-fi elements. Williams’ performance brought a unique charm to the series, making it a beloved part of ’70s television.

The Impact of Robin Williams

Williams’ portrayal of Mork showcased his improvisational skills and comedic genius. The show’s quirky humor and heartwarming moments made it a standout in the sci-fi genre, and it remains a testament to Williams’ talent and charisma. Mork & Mindy continues to be celebrated for its innovative approach to sci-fi comedy.

Knight Rider (1982-1986)

The High-Tech Crime Fighter

Knight Rider introduced audiences to Michael Knight, played by David Hasselhoff, who fights crime with the help of his advanced AI car, KITT. The show, created by Glen A. Larson, combined action, technology, and a sense of adventure. KITT, voiced by William Daniels, became an iconic character in its own right, adding a futuristic twist to classic crime-fighting tropes.

The Show’s Influence on Tech in TV

The concept of an AI-driven car was groundbreaking and influenced many subsequent sci-fi shows and movies. Knight Rider’s blend of technology and action captured the imagination of viewers and set a precedent for the portrayal of AI in popular media. The show’s continued popularity suggests that its blend of futuristic technology and adventure still resonates with audiences today.

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (1979-1981)

A Time-Traveling Hero’s Journey

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century followed the adventures of an astronaut who is frozen in time and wakes up 500 years in the future. Played by Gil Gerard, Buck Rogers navigates a future Earth under authoritarian rule, offering a mix of adventure and social commentary. The show was notable for its imaginative setting and exploration of futuristic concepts.

The Show’s Impact and Reboot

The series was influential in its depiction of a future world and its exploration of political themes. The character of Buck Rogers became a symbol of heroic spacefaring adventure, and the show’s legacy continued with various reboots and adaptations over the years. Its influence is still felt in modern sci-fi storytelling.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1981)

A Whimsical Space Adventure

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, adapted from Douglas Adams’ radio series and novels, brought a blend of comedy and science fiction to television. The 1981 series followed Arthur Dent’s adventures through space with an eccentric group of characters. Known for its wit and satirical take on the genre, the show remains a classic.

The Show’s Unique Appeal

The series’ unique blend of humor and science fiction set it apart from other shows of its time. Its quirky narrative and memorable characters have inspired a devoted fanbase and continued adaptations in various media. The show’s impact on the genre is evident in its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent sci-fi comedies.

Space: 1999 (1975-1977)

An Epic Space Adventure

Space: 1999, a U.K. production, followed the crew of Moonbase Alpha as they are flung out of Earth’s orbit and into deep space. Starring Martin Landau and Barbara Bain, the show explored themes of survival and exploration in a high-stakes cosmic setting. The series’ ambition and visual effects were notable for their time.

The Legacy of Space: 1999

The show’s ambitious premise and special effects set a high standard for sci-fi television. Space: 1999’s exploration of space and survival themes influenced later sci-fi works and contributed to the genre’s evolution. Its impact is still felt in contemporary sci-fi storytelling.

Voltron (1984-1985)

The Birth of a Robot Hero

Voltron was an American-Japanese animated series featuring a team of heroes who pilot giant robots that combine to form a powerful warrior. The series, known for its action-packed episodes and engaging storylines, was a precursor to the popular Power Rangers franchise. Its blend of animation and mecha action captured the imagination of viewers.

The Show’s Influence and Reboot

The original series’ success led to various reboots, including the critically acclaimed Voltron: Legendary Defender. The show’s influence is evident in its impact on subsequent robot-centric series and its enduring popularity among fans of animated sci-fi.

Battlestar Galactica (1978-1979)

A Quest for Survival

Battlestar Galactica followed the remnants of humanity searching for a new home while fleeing from the robotic Cylons. Created by Glen A. Larson, the series explored themes of survival, politics, and human nature. Its storytelling and character development set it apart from other sci-fi shows of its time.

The Show’s Enduring Legacy

The series’ influence extended beyond its original run, leading to a successful reboot in the 2000s. The show’s exploration of complex themes and its impact on the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. The reboot further solidified Battlestar Galactica‘s place in sci-fi history.

Quantum Leap (1989-1993)

A Groundbreaking Time Travel Drama

Quantum Leap followed Dr. Sam Beckett, played by Scott Bakula, as he traveled through time to correct historical wrongs. With the help of his holographic companion Al, portrayed by Dean Stockwell, Sam leaps into different lives, making a difference with each jump. The show’s inventive concept and emotional storytelling set it apart from other sci-fi series.

The Show’s Legacy and Influence

The series’ unique take on time travel and its exploration of moral dilemmas have influenced subsequent sci-fi shows. Quantum Leap’s mix of drama, science fiction, and character-driven storytelling has left a lasting impact on the genre and remains a beloved classic.

Doomwatch (1970-1972)

A Cautionary Sci-Fi Tale

Doomwatch was a British series that focused on a team of scientists investigating biological and technological disasters. The show’s themes of environmentalism and technological ethics resonated with contemporary issues and provided a thought-provoking look at the potential consequences of scientific advancement.

The Show’s Relevance

The series’ focus on real-world issues and its exploration of the darker side of technology make it highly relevant to modern audiences. Doomwatch‘s blend of science fiction and social commentary continues to influence the genre and remains a significant part of sci-fi TV history.

The Transformers (1984-1987)

The Rise of Robotic Heroes

The Transformers introduced audiences to a war between the Autobots and Decepticons, featuring transforming robots from Cybertron. The show, which premiered alongside the toyline, became a cultural phenomenon and remains iconic for its action-packed episodes and memorable characters, including Optimus Prime, voiced by Peter Cullen.

The Show’s Lasting Impact

The series’ success led to numerous adaptations and a rebooted series, Transformers: Prime. The original show’s impact on pop culture is evident in its continued popularity and influence on subsequent animated series and media.

Sapphire & Steel (1979-1982)

An Interdimensional Mystery

Sapphire & Steel featured two interdimensional agents investigating supernatural phenomena on Earth. The British series, starring Joanna Lumley and David McCallum, combined elements of science fiction with supernatural mystery, creating a unique and intriguing viewing experience.

The Show’s Unique Style

The series’ blend of science fiction and supernatural elements set it apart from other shows of its time. Its distinctive approach to storytelling and its exploration of interdimensional themes have left a lasting impression on the genre.

Red Dwarf (1988-Present)

A Cult Classic in Space

Red Dwarf is a British sci-fi comedy series that follows the misadventures of the crew of the mining ship Red Dwarf. Combining elements of space opera with quirky humor, the show has garnered a devoted fanbase and remains a beloved cult classic.

The Show’s Enduring Popularity

Despite various cancellations and revivals, Red Dwarf has continued to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor and science fiction. The show’s longevity and dedicated fanbase are testaments to its lasting appeal and influence on the genre.

Blake’s 7 (1978–1981)

A Revolutionary Sci-Fi Saga

Blake’s 7 followed a group of rebels fighting against a tyrannical regime in a dystopian future. The British series, known for its complex characters and political themes, was a groundbreaking exploration of resistance and rebellion.

The Show’s Impact and Legacy

The series’ focus on anti-authoritarian themes and its portrayal of a diverse group of characters influenced later sci-fi works. Blake’s 7 remains a significant part of sci-fi history, celebrated for its innovative storytelling and exploration of political themes.

Amazing Stories (1985-1987)

A Collection of Imaginative Tales

Amazing Stories, produced by Steven Spielberg, was an anthology series exploring fantastical and imaginative stories. The show featured a wide range of genres, from sci-fi to fantasy, and showcased some of the most creative storytelling of the era.

The Show’s Influence on Anthology Series

The series’ blend of genres and its focus on imaginative storytelling influenced subsequent anthology series and remains a beloved part of TV history. Amazing Stories’ impact on the genre is evident in its continued relevance and influence on modern storytelling.

The Incredible Hulk (1977-1982)

A Legendary Superhero Drama

The Incredible Hulk, starring Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno, brought Marvel’s iconic superhero to television. The series, known for its dramatic storytelling and exploration of the character’s dual nature, remains a classic in superhero television.

The Show’s Impact on Marvel TV

The series paved the way for future Marvel adaptations and remains a beloved part of superhero TV history. Its focus on character development and emotional storytelling set a high standard for future Marvel shows.

ALF (1986-1990)

A Family-Friendly Alien Comedy

ALF followed the comedic adventures of an extraterrestrial named ALF, who crash-lands on Earth and becomes part of a human family. Known for its humor and quirky characters, the show remains a nostalgic favorite.

The Show’s Unique Appeal

The series’ blend of comedy and sci-fi elements set it apart from other shows of its time. ALF’s endearing character and humorous take on alien life continue to make it a beloved part of ’80s television.

The Tomorrow People (1973-1979)

A Coming-of-Age Sci-Fi Series

The Tomorrow People followed a group of teens with advanced abilities, such as telepathy and teleportation. The British series explored themes of evolution and adolescence, offering a unique take on the sci-fi genre.

The Show’s Influence and Reimaginings

The series’ exploration of enhanced abilities and its focus on teenage protagonists influenced later sci-fi shows. The Tomorrow People has been reimagined several times, reflecting its lasting impact on the genre.

Max Headroom (1987-1988)

A Cyberpunk Icon

Max Headroom featured a computer-generated TV presenter who becomes the star of a dystopian series set in a future dominated by media. The show’s unique concept and satirical take on media culture made it a memorable part of ’80s television.

The Show’s Influence on Cyberpunk

The series’ exploration of media and technology set a precedent for cyberpunk storytelling. Max Headroom’s impact on the genre is evident in its continued relevance and influence on subsequent sci-fi and media critiques.

UFO (1970-1971)

A British Sci-Fi Classic

UFO, created by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, followed a secret military organization defending Earth from alien threats. The series combined elements of espionage with sci-fi, offering a unique and engaging narrative.

The Show’s Impact on Sci-Fi

The series’ blend of espionage and science fiction set it apart from other shows of its time. UFO’s influence can be seen in its impact on later sci-fi series and its continued relevance in the genre.

The Highwayman (1987-1988)

A Post-Apocalyptic Adventure

The Highwayman followed a team of federal marshals traveling in a high-tech truck in a near-future dystopia. The show’s blend of action and futuristic technology offered a unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre.

The Show’s Legacy

The series’ focus on a futuristic setting and its action-packed episodes influenced later post-apocalyptic and sci-fi narratives. The Highwayman remains a notable part of ’80s sci-fi television.

Land of the Lost (1974-1977)

A Prehistoric Adventure

Land of the Lost followed a family trapped in a prehistoric world filled with dinosaurs and strange creatures. The show, created by Sid and Marty Krofft, offered a blend of adventure and fantasy in a unique setting.

The Show’s Impact and Reboots

The series’ imaginative setting and storytelling influenced subsequent sci-fi and adventure shows. Land of the Lost has been reimagined several times, reflecting its lasting appeal and impact on the genre.

Terrahawks (1983-1986)

A Puppetry-Driven Sci-Fi Series

Terrahawks, created by Gerry Anderson, used puppetry to tell the story of a team defending Earth from a malicious Martian enemy. The show’s distinctive visual style and engaging narrative set it apart from other sci-fi series of the time.

The Show’s Influence on Puppetry and Sci-Fi

The series’ use of puppetry and its blend of sci-fi and action influenced later productions. Terrahawks remains a unique and memorable part of the sci-fi genre.

Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973-1975)

Expanding the Star Trek Universe

Star Trek: The Animated Series brought the Star Trek universe to animation, featuring the original cast reprising their roles. The series explored new adventures and expanded the lore of the Star Trek franchise.

The Show’s Contribution to the Franchise

The series’ contributions to the Star Trek universe are evident in its exploration of new storylines and characters. Star Trek: The Animated Series remains a significant part of the franchise’s history.

Small Wonder (1985-1989)

A Family-Friendly Sci-Fi Series

Small Wonder followed a family with a robot daughter, Vicki, who was designed to appear human. The show’s blend of family sitcom and sci-fi elements made it a unique and memorable part of ’80s television.

The Show’s Appeal and Influence

The series’ focus on a robot character and its family-friendly humor set it apart from other sci-fi shows. Small Wonder remains a nostalgic favorite for fans of ’80s television.

Timeslip (1970-1971)

A Time-Travel Adventure

Timeslip followed two children who discover a portal to different eras of the 20th Century. The British series explored themes of time travel and adventure, offering a unique take on the genre.

The Show’s Influence on Time-Travel Narratives

The series’ exploration of time travel and its focus on young protagonists influenced later sci-fi shows. Timeslip remains a notable example of early time-travel storytelling.

Alien Nation (1989-1990)

A Sci-Fi Drama with Social Commentary

Alien Nation explored themes of immigration and integration through the lens of a human-police officer partnership with an alien. The series offered a thoughtful exploration of societal issues and remains relevant in its commentary.

The Show’s Lasting Impact

The series’ exploration of societal issues and its focus on diversity and integration continue to resonate with modern audiences. Alien Nation remains a significant part of sci-fi television history.

The Bionic Woman (1976-1978)

A Groundbreaking Female Cyborg

The Bionic Woman, a spin-off of The Six Million Dollar Man, featured Lindsay Wagner as the first female cyborg. The series explored themes of enhancement and empowerment, setting a precedent for future sci-fi characters.

The Show’s Influence on Sci-Fi and Female Protagonists

The series’ focus on a female cyborg and its exploration of enhancement themes influenced later sci-fi shows. The Bionic Woman remains a pioneering example of female-led sci-fi narratives.

War of the Worlds (1988-1990)

A Continuation of a Classic Tale

War of the Worlds continued the story of H.G. Wells’ classic novel, exploring an alien invasion that was only temporarily halted. The series offered a modern take on the classic tale and provided a new perspective on the alien threat.

The Show’s Contribution to Sci-Fi Television

The series’ continuation of a classic story and its exploration of new themes contributed to its significance in the genre. War of the Worlds remains a notable example of sci-fi television.

Logan’s Run (1977-1978)

A Dystopian Adventure

Logan’s Run, based on the 1976 film, depicted a dystopian society where citizens are terminated upon reaching the age of 30. The series followed Logan as he sought freedom from this society, offering a compelling narrative and exploring themes of rebellion and survival.

The Show’s Influence on Dystopian Narratives

The series’ exploration of a dystopian society and its focus on themes of rebellion influenced later sci-fi and dystopian narratives. Logan’s Run remains a classic example of the genre.

The Six Million Dollar Man (1974-1978)

A Bionic Hero

The Six Million Dollar Man starred Lee Majors as Colonel Steve Austin, an astronaut who is rebuilt with bionic limbs and enhanced abilities after a horrific accident. The series combined action with a focus on the technology of the time, making it a groundbreaking entry in sci-fi television.

The Show’s Legacy

The show’s exploration of human enhancement and its influence on later sci-fi and superhero narratives highlight its importance. Its spin-off, The Bionic Woman, also made a significant impact, as previously mentioned.

The Invisible Man (1975-1976)

A Modern Take on a Classic

The Invisible Man, not to be confused with the earlier adaptations of H.G. Wells’ novel, featured David McCallum as a scientist who discovers a way to become invisible. The series combined elements of espionage and sci-fi, offering a fresh take on the concept of invisibility.

The Show’s Influence

The series’ unique approach to the invisibility trope and its blending of sci-fi with spy drama contributed to its place in sci-fi television history.

The Phoenix (1981)

A Mythical Sci-Fi Adventure

The Phoenix starred Judson Scott as a powerful alien who has been in a state of suspended animation for centuries. Upon awakening, he uses his abilities to help humanity, while dealing with the challenges of his new environment.

The Show’s Unique Elements

The show’s combination of mythical elements and futuristic science fiction, along with its focus on a lone hero’s journey, set it apart from other sci-fi series of the time.

The Powers of Matthew Star (1982-1983)

An Alien on the Run

The Powers of Matthew Star followed an alien teenager with superpowers who is hiding on Earth while being pursued by intergalactic forces. The series blended teen drama with sci-fi action, providing a unique angle on the “hidden hero” narrative.

The Show’s Impact

The series’ focus on a young protagonist with extraordinary abilities and its themes of identity and secrecy resonated with audiences and influenced similar narratives in later sci-fi TV shows.

The Last Starfighter (1984)

A Space Adventure in TV

Although The Last Starfighter is primarily known as a film, it was briefly adapted into a TV series. The story follows a teenager recruited to fight in an interstellar war after becoming a champion video gamer.

The Show’s Appeal

The series’ combination of video game culture with space adventure showcased the early integration of gaming with sci-fi narratives, reflecting the era’s fascination with new technologies and media.

The Quest (1976-1977)

An Epic Sci-Fi Adventure

The Quest followed a group of adventurers seeking a magical artifact on a distant planet. The show combined fantasy with sci-fi elements, creating a unique blend of adventure and science fiction.

The Show’s Influence

The series’ focus on epic quests and imaginative worlds contributed to its appeal and influenced later shows that explored similar themes of adventure and exploration.

Future Cop (1976-1977)

A Cop with a Futuristic Twist

Future Cop starred Ernest Borgnine and Michael Conrad as partners in a futuristic police force. The series combined elements of police drama with sci-fi, featuring advanced technology and futuristic crime-solving techniques.

The Show’s Legacy

The show’s integration of futuristic technology into a traditional police drama provided a fresh perspective on the genre and influenced later sci-fi cop dramas.

In revisiting these iconic sci-fi TV shows from the 1970s and 1980s, we can appreciate the creativity and innovation that defined this era. These shows not only entertained audiences but also pushed the boundaries of the genre, exploring new ideas and themes that continue to resonate with viewers today. Whether through time travel, alien invasions, or futuristic adventures, the sci-fi TV shows of the ’70s and ’80s have left an indelible mark on television history and continue to inspire new generations of fans and creators alike.