Discover the Top 9 Sci-Fi Shows Every ‘Doctor Who’ Fan Must Watch!

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Since its debut in 1963, the British science fiction series Doctor Who has garnered one of the most passionate fan bases in television, spanning over a remarkable 26 years until its reboot in 2005. To this very day, it continues to captivate viewers with its compelling storylines.

Combining science fiction, adventure, and a quintessentially British wit, Doctor Who skillfully balances humor with poignant and contemplative scenes. It offers moments of deep reflection, social critique, and genuine emotion, resulting in a unique and extraordinary series.

As a devoted fan of Doctor Who, I’ve curated a list of shows that you might find captivating if you share my affection for this unique series. If you appreciate the witty humor and nostalgic aesthetic, enjoy the time-jumping sci-fi escapades of its iconic character, or are drawn to the rich lore and intricate universe building, then I’m confident that there will be something on this list that appeals to you.

Here are the best sci-fi shows like Doctor Who.

9
‘Quantum Leap’ (1989 – 1993)

With his rapid-fire AI partner by his side, Quantum Leap finds Dr. Sam Beckett leaping through different time eras, entering other people’s lives to rectify past mistakes, all with the aim of eventually returning to his own era. The show initially aired from 1989 to 1993 and developed a dedicated fanbase, but when it was rebooted in 2022, reactions were varied.

‘Quantum Leap’ Is Another Time-Traveling Triumph

Much like “Doctor Who,” “Quantum Leap” is a popular science fiction series that emphasizes time travel, boasting an assortment of eccentric side characters and scenarios. However, compared to “Doctor Who,” it has a more grounded and realistic feel, with less emphasis on the fantastical or campy elements. Both shows share a common theme of incorporating emotional depth and human experiences within their science fiction backdrop.

8
‘Red Dwarf’ (1988 – Presents)

As a film enthusiast who appreciates a good dose of humor in their sci-fi, I can’t help but sing praises for the British classic, “Red Dwarf.” This show first graced our screens from 1988 to 1999, and during that time, it managed to amass a dedicated cult following. The narrative unfolds onboard the spaceship Red Dwarf, where an unusual assortment of characters band together to tackle the challenges of the cosmos. With its clever wordplay, biting satire, and side-splitting slapstick, “Red Dwarf” offers a delightful blend of intellectual stimulation and absurdity that keeps viewers coming back for more.

Both Shows Explore Big Ideas with a Light Touch

Aficionados of the series “Doctor Who” will likely appreciate the amusing mix of science fiction and humor found in “Red Dwarf,” which features peculiar characters and unusual journeys through space and time. Similar to “Doctor Who,” it delights in absurdity and tackles big themes with a subtle approach. Both shows share a charming aesthetic reminiscent of B-movies, though “Red Dwarf” may contain more mature content. Nonetheless, they both provide an equally inventive escapade.

7
‘Torchwood’ (2006 – 2011)

After the significant excitement surrounding the 2005 reboot of Doctor Who, a more mature-oriented spin-off titled Torchwood debuted in 2006. Set in Wales, the series features John Barrowman as Jack Harkness who, along with his team, defends Earth from various alien dangers.

‘Torchwood’ Was Highly Divisive

Over a span of four seasons from 2006 to 2011, the show Torchwood garnered mixed reactions. Some viewers criticized it as an attempt to be overly edgy, while others felt it lacked the playful, campy appeal of Doctor Who. Yet, many appreciated its effort to expand upon the success of Doctor Who, catering to adults with more complex storylines, realistic characters, and thought-provoking plots.

6
‘The Sarah Jane Adventures’ (2007 – 2011)

After the 2005 revival of Doctor Who, the show’s popularity seemed to reach its peak, making it a logical decision to produce a spin-off series that catered to younger audiences. Given the title, this new show chronicles the escapades of Sarah Jane, a character who previously journeyed through time and space with the Doctor during her youth.

‘The Sarah Jane Adventures’ Takes ‘Doctor Who’s Winning Formula and Adapts It for a Younger Audience

In the role of protecting our world from harmful entities and alien menaces, The Sarah Jane Adventures maintains the science fiction allure of its original series, but eliminates the scarier instances, deeper ethical quandaries, and intricate time travel issues. Instead, it emphasizes universal ideas such as friendship, bravery, and championing righteousness.

The series found great success among the youth and continued for five seasons, but unfortunately had to end when its main actress, Elisabeth Sladen, passed away.

5
‘WandaVision’ (2021)

The miniseries titled WandaVision was revolutionary compared to any previous Marvel production. After the devastating events portrayed in Avengers: Endgame, Wanda Maximoff constructs an unusual sitcom-inspired world as a means of dealing with the loss of her partner, Vision. The series traverses various time periods, mirroring classic sitcoms from each era at first. However, as secrets are revealed and truths come to light, it culminates in a thrilling superhero battle, combining intense emotion with action-packed sequences. This not only marks Wanda’s evolution into the Scarlet Witch but also prepares the ground for the ensuing multiverse turmoil.

‘Doctor Who’ and ‘WandaVision’ Use Fantastical Elements to Tell Deeply Human Stories

Just like “Doctor Who,” the series “WandaVision” combines science fiction with mystery, seamlessly transitioning between varying tones and formats. Both shows delve into genuine human emotions by utilizing their fantastical aspects to narrate profoundly human stories. These tales are filled with unexpected twists, character growth, and intricate plotlines that reward careful viewing and emotional engagement.

Enthusiasts of the authentic “Doctor Who” may find themselves captivated by the early installments of “WandaVision,” which attempt to replicate the ambiance, visuals, and atmosphere reminiscent of old-time TV series.

4
‘Class’ (2016)

Class, similar to another series known as Doctor Who, presents a spin-off storyline that revolves around the daily lives of students at Coal Hill Academy. A rift in space and time, causing a flood of dangerous creatures from various dimensions into our world, falls under the responsibility of these unassuming champions to safeguard humanity from these malicious entities. By seamlessly combining coming-of-age drama with the thrilling, otherworldly perils characteristic of Doctor Who, the series crafts a distinctive and captivating science fiction journey.

‘Class’ Is Set in the Same Universe as ‘Doctor Who’

Keen-eyed Doctor Who fans are sure to enjoy finding plenty of delight in the hidden references, tributes, and Easter eggs scattered everywhere. Although Class veers the franchise towards a more somber, emotionally charged tone, it still preserves a good deal of the series’ unique mix of sci-fi, mystery, now seasoned with teenage turmoil.

3
‘Primeval’ (2007 – 2011)

Primeval focuses on a team of researchers who are sent to examine a string of mysterious events, finding themselves confronted by various ancient and advanced creatures that have somehow appeared in the modern world. The series spanned five seasons and garnered high praise for its compelling female characters and groundbreaking special effects, despite its modest budget.

‘Primeval’ Was Initially Written Off as a ‘Doctor Who’ Rip-Off

Initially proposed to the BBC, known for “Doctor Who,” the show didn’t get approved due to being too alike in concept. It eventually found its home on ITV and established its unique identity, becoming successful as a standalone production. Although it did share some themes with “Doctor Who,” it offered a more down-to-earth approach, giving fans of “Doctor Who” new puzzles and peculiarities to explore.

2
‘Continuum’ (2012 – 2015)

In the story, a team of time-traveling law enforcement officers are unexpectedly transported back to 2012, along with a dangerous terrorist group. Stuck in the past, they join forces with a local detective and a tech-savvy individual to dismantle the terrorists and keep them from changing the future in ways that could be devastating.

Despite Its Short Run, ‘Continuum’ Was a Critical Hit

In contrast to the playful, fantastical vibe of “Doctor Who”, “Continuum” presents a more realistic, gritty atmosphere. However, both series share a common thread in their inventive examination of time travel, technology, and human nature. “Continuum” was highly acclaimed for its original concept and imaginative narrative, garnering numerous accolades during its four-year run from 2012 to 2015.

1
‘The Twilight Zone’ (1959 – Present)

1963 marked the broadcast of the initial episode of “Doctor Who,” a TV series that has since become iconic and timeless. On the other hand, “The Twilight Zone” premiered on television in 1959, making it an early pioneer in this realm. This anthology show presents characters grappling with peculiar or disquieting situations, a journey often likened to stepping into the eerie and enigmatic world of “The Twilight Zone.

Both Shows Combine Elements of Sci-Fi with Sharp Social Commentary

Over the years, both series have undergone multiple reboots and revivals, leading us to speculate that they may have taken inspiration from one another at times. Despite differences in structure and even mood, with The Twilight Zone typically leaning towards a more somber, psychological style, both shows have effectively used science fiction as a means to deliver thought-provoking social commentary by mirroring and critiquing real-world issues through their narratives.

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2025-04-28 05:35