Time travel has long been a fascinating concept in science fiction, and many TV shows have delved into this idea in creative and thought-provoking ways. Whether you’re a fan of classic time loops, mind-bending paradoxes, or adventures that stretch across centuries, there’s a time travel show for every type of viewer. Below are some of the best TV shows about time travel that you should check out.
1. Doctor Who (1963–Present)
Arguably the most iconic time travel show of all time, Doctor Who has been a cornerstone of British sci-fi for decades. The show follows the Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey who travels through time and space in the TARDIS, a time machine that looks like a British police box on the outside but is much larger on the inside.
Why it’s worth watching:
- The Doctor has a unique ability to regenerate, allowing different actors to take on the role over the years, keeping the show fresh.
- The adventures span across time and space, featuring alien encounters, historical figures, and alternate timelines.
- It’s one of the most enduring time travel series, with over 50 years of content and a dedicated fan base.
2. Dark (2017–2020)
This German series is widely regarded as one of the best modern sci-fi shows about time travel. Set in the small town of Winden, the story begins with the mysterious disappearance of a teenager and spirals into a complex narrative that involves multiple generations, time loops, and a tangled web of interconnected families.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Mind-bending plot: Dark has an incredibly intricate storyline that weaves together different timelines, creating a puzzle that will keep you guessing.
- Atmosphere: The moody, atmospheric setting enhances the sense of mystery and unease.
- Character-driven: The show is just as much about the characters’ emotional journeys as it is about the sci-fi elements.
3. The Umbrella Academy (2019–Present)
Based on the comic series created by Gerard Way, The Umbrella Academy follows a dysfunctional family of adopted superhero siblings who are brought together after their father’s mysterious death. The family members have powers that span from time manipulation to super strength, and their time travel adventures are central to the plot, especially in the show’s second season.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Quirky characters: The eccentric characters, including a time-traveling member named Five, bring humor and depth to the show.
- Superhero twist: While time travel is at the core of the story, the series also blends elements of superhero and dysfunctional family drama.
- Action and humor: It strikes a great balance between intense moments and lightheartedness.
4. Outlander (2014–Present)
Based on the book series by Diana Gabaldon, Outlander follows Claire Randall, a nurse from 1945 who is mysteriously transported back to 18th-century Scotland. As Claire tries to navigate life in the past, she faces political intrigue, romance, and the struggle to find a way back to her original timeline.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Historical setting: The series seamlessly blends historical events with fantasy elements, offering a captivating look at different time periods.
- Romantic plot: The emotional depth of Claire’s relationships, especially with her husband and her lover in the past, adds a compelling layer to the time travel narrative.
- Time travel as an emotional journey: Unlike many other time travel shows, Outlander focuses as much on the emotional and psychological effects of time travel as it does on the logistics.
5. 12 Monkeys (2015–2018)
Inspired by the 1995 film of the same name, 12 Monkeys follows a man named James Cole, who is sent back in time to stop a devastating plague that wipes out most of humanity. As he jumps between timelines, Cole uncovers a secret group that might be behind the creation of the virus and faces the reality of paradoxes and unintended consequences.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Complex narrative: The show explores time loops, paradoxes, and the fragility of the timeline, making for a thought-provoking and intense experience.
- Psychological depth: The psychological effects of time travel are explored deeply, especially regarding Cole’s mental state and his relationship with others.
- Twists and turns: The series keeps viewers on their toes with plenty of unexpected developments and cliffhangers.
6. The Time Traveler’s Wife (2022)
Based on the novel by Audrey Niffenegger, The Time Traveler’s Wife is a romantic drama that explores the relationship between Henry DeTamble, a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to involuntarily time travel, and his wife, Clare, who has to cope with the unpredictability of his disappearances.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Heartfelt story: The show focuses on the emotional and romantic impact of time travel, exploring how it affects relationships and personal growth.
- Non-linear storytelling: The show’s narrative structure, which moves through different points in time, reflects the time travel aspect of the story.
- Character-driven: Much like Outlander, the show delves into the emotional and psychological effects of time travel on the characters’ lives.
7. Travelers (2016–2018)
In Travelers, a team of “travelers” from a post-apocalyptic future are sent back to the 21st century to prevent global disasters. These travelers take over the bodies of people in the present day, using their knowledge of the future to stop catastrophic events from unfolding.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Future-saving mission: The central premise of trying to prevent a future collapse through small changes in the present is a compelling take on time travel.
- Ethical dilemmas: The characters often face moral dilemmas about how much they can change the timeline without risking disastrous consequences.
- Character and team dynamics: The show focuses on the relationships between the team members, adding a personal layer to the action-packed plot.
8. Quantum Leap (1989–1993)
A classic in the time travel genre, Quantum Leap follows Dr. Sam Beckett, a physicist who invents a time travel experiment called Quantum Leap, which causes him to “leap” into the bodies of people at different points in time. With the help of his companion Al, Sam tries to “set things right” before leaping again.
Why it’s worth watching:
- Episodic structure: Each episode brings Sam into a new time period, providing a variety of historical and cultural contexts to explore.
- Feel-good vibe: The show mixes drama, humor, and heartwarming moments as Sam tries to right wrongs in history.
- Classic charm: Quantum Leap has a nostalgic quality and has remained a beloved time travel series for fans of ’90s television.
Time travel is a compelling theme that allows for endless exploration of history, future possibilities, and moral dilemmas. Whether you’re looking for intense drama, historical romance, or mind-bending paradoxes, there’s a time travel TV show that fits the bill. From the epic adventures of Doctor Who to the intricate storytelling of Dark, these shows offer something for every sci-fi fan. So, grab some popcorn and start jumping through time—there’s a whole universe of stories waiting for you.