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The 10 Best Captain Picard Episodes in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation,' Ranked

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Star Trek: The Next Generation isn’t just one of the best installments in the Star Trek franchise, but one of the greatest drama shows of all time . While the original Star Trek series was sadly canceled after the end of its third season, Star Trek: The Next Generation was given the chance to keep pushing the story forward for over seven years.

Although there are many beloved characters in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Patrick Stewart’s performance as Captain Jean-Luc Picard turned him into the greatest hero in the history of the Star Trek saga . Stewart crafted a complex, vulnerable hero who was defined by his dedication, principles, and willingness to hear both sides of any given dispute; he’s simply a character that everyone should aspire to be like. Here are the ten best Captain Picard episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation .

Star Trek: The Next Generation

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10 “The Measure of a Man”

Season 2, episode 9 (1989).

There are few relationships in the Star Trek franchise that are more profound than the dynamic between Picard and Data ( Brett Spiner ), the android who serves as one of the most important officers on the U.S.S. Enterprise. “The Measure of a Man” featured Picard serving as Data’s defender in a legal case in which he must defend his right to exist. The discussion about the merits of artificial intelligence is just as relevant today as they were when the episode first aired in 1989.

“Measure of a Man” showed that Picard was willing to stand up for the rights of those that were mistreated , as Star Trek has always been an incredibly progressive franchise when compared to other science fiction properties. This episode solidified the fact that Picard was willing to risk his own livelihood if the safety of one of his crew members was ever placed in danger.

9 “The Best of Both Worlds”

Season 3, episode 26 & season 4, episode 1 (1990).

“The Best of Both Worlds” is one of the most important episodes of any Star Trek series, as the first installment of the two-parter that ended the third season had a massive cliffhanger that had viewers screaming at their televisions. The episode featured Picard being captured by the Borg, with his replacement Captain William T. Riker ( Jonathan Frakes ) put in a position that could end his life.

“The Best of Both Worlds” was the first instance in which Picard felt completely vulnerable , as it was feasible that he could get killed off and replaced by Riker for the rest of the show. Although Picard ended up surviving the incident, his feud with the Borg as a result of his torture left him with a severe case of post-traumatic stress disorder that he continued to deal with for the rest of the series.

8 “Family”

Season 4, episode 2 (1990).

“Family” was a critical episode that helped to humanize Picard and showed what his family life looked like for the first time. Although Picard rarely discussed his personal motivations and background with members of his crew during the first three seasons of the show, “Family” saw him returning to visit his family farm after his traumatic encounter with the Borg in “The Best of Both Worlds.”

“Family” was an important shift in tone for Star Trek: The Next Generation that helped follow up the action of “The Best of Both Worlds,” and did a great job at showing how Picard was dealing with his personal mental health in the series after such a frightening incident. Stewart is arguably at his most profound and emotional in “Family,” as the episode strips away all the duties of command from Picard and examines what it is like for him to live a normal life outside of Starfleet.

7 “The Drumhead”

Season 4, episode 21 (1991).

Star Trek has always been a very political franchise that touches on hot-button issues, and “The Drumhead” explores a scary situation about the denial of truth that has proven to be just as relevant today in an era of political divisiveness and fake news. After a member of his crew is accused of being a traitor, Picard is forced to prevent a representative of Starfleet from badgering everyone under his command and impeding their civil liberties.

“The Drumhead” plays out like a legal thriller, and feels just as exciting as the courtroom dramas that dominated the 1990s . While it is relatively light on action compared to some of the more intense episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, “The Drumhead” proved that the series was capable of developing nuanced ideas about what the future would look like under Gene Roddenberry ’s vision.

6 “Darmok”

Season 5, episode 2 (1991).

“Darmok” is perhaps the most intimate episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation , as it sees Picard being trapped in a primitive world where he can only communicate with the native species using rudimentary language. The episode shows just how effective of a hero Picard can be, even if he seems to enjoy being in the company of a crew that supports him.

Star Trek: The Next Generation is well known for making interesting genre deviations, and “Darmok” feels like the closest that the series ever got to a Western adventure story . Although some viewers may have felt the same exact confusion and frustration that Picard did when the premise was first established, “Darmok” ends with one of the most powerful emotional revelations about the ability that Picard has to inspire others in all seven seasons of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

5 “Conundrum”

Season 5, episode 14 (1992).

“Conundrum” is one of the most imaginative episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation , as it takes place after a mysterious alien virus forces the entire crew to forget their memories, leaving them helpless in the middle of space. This was an episode that essentially showed how the Enterprise crew could be built again from the ground up, as Picard is the first one to assess the parameters of the mystery and start developing a solution to keep everyone safe.

“Conundrum” was one of the best episodes that showed Stewart’s generosity as an actor , as even though it is Picard’s moment to shine as a leader, every single member of the cast is given a standout moment. The success of “Conundrum” in combining the emotional with the practical is a major reason why the fifth season is often cited as the best that Star Trek: The Next Generation ever aired.

4 “Cause and Effect”

Season 5, episode 18 (1992).

Time travel is notoriously a concept that is very difficult to capture on screen in a compelling way, as it is very easy to get so confusing that viewers struggle to understand what the stakes are supposed to be. However, “Cause and Effect” presented a brilliant time travel storyline in which Picard and the crew of the Enterprise are trapped in a recurring loop that could doom them for eternity.

“Cause and Effect” was a great example of Star Trek: The Next Generation showing Picard’s abilities as a strategist . While many of the captains established in other shows and films in the Star Trek franchise earned their rank through military conquest, it's Picard’s intelligence and ability to make rational decisions while under pressure that make him such an all-time great character. “Cause and Effect” succeeds because Stewart understands this fundamental truth about the character.

3 “The Inner Light”

Season 5, episode 25 (1992).

“The Inner Light” is perhaps the most emotional episode of the entire Star Trek franchise, and would have earned Stewart a Primetime Emmy Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series had the Television Academy not been so notoriously biased against science fiction and other genre shows. The episode takes place entirely in Picard’s mind, as he begins to live out different fantasies about what an alternate life could look like when he is unconscious.

“The Inner Light” revealed truths about Picard as a character , showing how his unflinching willingness to perform his duty against mitigating circumstances put a severe detriment on his ability to start a family. There isn’t another episode more tear-jerking as “The Inner Light,” as Stewart reveals how Picard is dealing with the burdens of his sacrifices, and how it has been taken for granted by those who serve under him.

2 “Tapestry”

Season 6, episode 15 (1993).

“Tapestry” was an integral episode that revealed that Picard himself was flawed , as his encounter with Q ( John de Lancie ) allows him to travel back to moments from his past and reflect on the mistakes that he made as a young man. Essentially serving as a coming-of-age story about Picard’s youth, “Tapestry” showed that even someone that noble had elements of their past that they had buried deep within their minds.

The dynamic between Q and Picard is one of the show’s most interesting, as the two have completely different outlooks on humanity and its potential. While Q uses the mistakes that humanity has made as evidence that they are beyond reason, Picard argues that humans are capable of being empathetic, compassionate, and willing to redeem themselves. It’s Picard’s faith in others and general optimism about the future that makes him such an inspiring character.

1 “All Good Things…”

Season 7, episode 25 (1994).

There aren’t many shows that end on a perfect note, as many acclaimed programs like Game of Thrones , House of Cards , Killing Eve , and Battlestar Galactica had such underwhelming series finales that fans questioned why they were ever loyal to the shows in the first place. However, Star Trek: The Next Generation ended on a perfect note with “All Good Things…,” an episode that featured a profound moment where Picard was able to thank every member of the crew for their dedication to the Enterprise .

“All Good Things…” showed that Star Trek: The Next Generation was more interested in developing great characters than overwhelming the viewers with action, as it takes a far more philosophical approach to a series finale than some may have expected. A final shot of Picard playing cards with various crew members was the perfect way to wrap up the show.

NEXT: Every 'Star Trek' TV Show (So Far), Ranked

Every Star Trek Show And Movie In Chronological Order

As a media phenomenon, "Star Trek" began on September 8, 1966 with the airing of "The Man Trap" (the sixth episode in production order, but the first aired). Originally, the show's writers, including creator Gene Roddenberry, used the concept of "stardates" to ensure the show's actual timeline was left vague; for several episodes, all audiences knew was that "Trek" was set in the future and that the future was a pretty keen place. It wouldn't be until the episode "The Naked Time" (seventh episode produced, fourth aired, first aired on September 29, 1966) that the Gregorian year would be mentioned out loud, and an actual timeline could begin to be constructed. 

Since then, "Star Trek" has extrapolated an extensive, centuries long timeline of events, often skipping merrily back and forth through the centuries, adding more and more to the franchises complex chronology. The chronology of "Star Trek" is so complicated that entire books have been published tracking the various shows' and films' events. Because of the constant production of new "Star Trek," these books became dated immediately. 

" Star Trek: Strange New Worlds " is set to debut on Paramount+ on May 5, and it is set immediately before the events of the original "Star Trek," making it the third "prequel" series to the original. To keep matters as clear as possible, here is a (very brief, by the standards of "Trek") rundown of "Star Trek" chronology from within its own canon. 

NOTE : This list will not necessarily include single episodes wherein characters go back in time, but give an overall timeframe for each individual film and TV show.

1986: Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home

Although beginning and ending within the proper chronology of the "Star Trek" future, Leonard Nimoy's 1986 feature film " Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home " is set largely in the earliest point in the franchise's timeline (again, excluding single time travel episodes of any given TV series, wherein Mark Twain, the 1950s, and other eras are regularly visited). In the film, the crew of the Enterprise must go back in time to rescue a pair of humpback whales from extinction in order to appease an enormous, inscrutable space monolith that has been draining future Earth of its oceans, looking for its own kind. 

The bulk of "Voyage Home" takes place in 1986, and the film gained a lot of critical and audience attention for its fish-out-of-water humor and light tone; the previous three films had been comparatively dour, downbeat, or cerebral.

2024: Star Trek: Picard (Season 2)

As of this writing, the second season of "Star Trek: Picard" is still being released weekly on Paramount+, so the ultimate conclusion of the story is as yet unknown. 

What is known is that the trickster god Q (John De Lancie), a playful villain from "Star Trek: The Next Generation," visited an elderly Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) to warn him of a parallel universe. In this parallel universe, Earth is a genocidal conqueror race that has wiped out most life in the galaxy. Picard must travel back in time, paralleling the story of "Voyage Home" in order to stop the fascist timeline from starting. Thanks to the limited information they have, they travel to the year 2024, and the bulk of the season's action takes place there. 

A bit of a continuity error already: In previously mentioned "Trek" canon, the Eugenics Wars — the conflagration that wrought Khan from "Star Trek II" — should have already happened by 2024 (I believe the original date for the Eugenics Wars was 1997), but, in "Picard," they had clearly been delayed. One of the subplots of the second season of "Picard,' however, involves a malevolent genetic engineer, so it looks like the Eugenics Wars may finally be nigh.

2063: Star Trek: First Contact

Although never directly filmed, there are constant references throughout "Star Trek" to World War III, an event that left the entire planet devastated. Despite destitution and technological ruin, an inventor named Zefram Cochran managed to invent an engine that allowed humanity to travel faster than light. This technology, when being tested for the first time in the solar system, attracted the attention of some Vulcans who just happened to be passing by. This was the First Contact mentioned in the title of the 1996 film " Star Trek: First Contact ." 

In that film, the characters from "Star Trek: The Next Generation" travel back in time to foil a plot by a malevolent species of cyborgs called The Borg, and find themselves in the year A.D. 2063 where they could witness First Contact themselves. This was the event that essentially kicked off creator Gene Roddenberry's vision of a peaceful future. In meeting intelligent space aliens, a hobbled humanity learned that war was churlish, and that unity as a species was preferable in the face of a suddenly occupied cosmos. 

"First Contact" is essentially the "Star Trek" origin story.

2151 - 2155: Star Trek: Enterprise

After first talking to Vulcans, humans were eager to take to the stars and join the galactic community. The conceit of the 2001 TV series " Star Trek: Enterpris e" (originally just called "Enterprise") was that the Vulcans, seeing how illogical and roughhewn humanity still was, encouraged them to stay on Earth for nearly a century before actually taking to the stars. In that century, humanity rebuilt, formed a Starfleet, and constructed its very first long-mission starship, the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-01. The show is about the adventures of the very first humans in space, circa A.D. 2151.

"Enterprise" took place before a lot of established "Trek" tech had been invented. There were transporters, but they weren't entirely safe for use on humans. There were no shields around the ship. There were no food replicators, and the Enterprise required a galley. Most notably, there wasn't a Prime Directive yet, so a lot of mistakes are bound to be made. It wouldn't be until 2161 — according to ancillary revelations — that the Federation would be formed. 

2254: The Cage

The unused "Star Trek" pilot has probably gained more canonical traction than any other unused footage from any other work of filmed fiction. "The Cage" didn't air in its complete form until 1986, 20 years after its making. Previously, footage from "The Cage" was incorporated into a two-part "Star Trek" episode called "The Menagerie" (November of 1966). 

In the pilot, we first meet Capt. Christopher Pike (Jeffrey Hunter) and his ship the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701. We were first introduced to Spock as well, although Spock would be the only character carried over into the second pilot that was eventually used. Majel Barrett played the Enterprise's first officer in "The Cage," and she would go on to play multiple other roles throughout "Star Trek," including Nurse Chapel, M'Ress, Lwaxana Troi, and the voice of the ship's computer. 

The events of "The Cage" would also be revisited in the second season of "Star Trek: Discovery."

2256 - 2258: Star Trek: Discovery (seasons 1 and 2)

Another cataclysm that had been mentioned multiple times throughout "Star Trek" was a war between the Klingons and the Federation. The first season of "Star Trek: Discovery," which debuted on CBS All Access (now Paramount+) in November of 2017, dramatized those events explicitly, as seen through the eyes of the U.S.S. Discovery. This new ship was a science vessel that had figured out a way to tap into a galaxy-wide network of near-undetectable, microscopic spores into order to teleport anywhere in the galaxy instantaneously. 

After surviving the Klingon war, the Discovery teamed up with the U.S.S. Enterprise while it was still being captained by Christopher Pike (now played by Anson Mount), putting the events of "Discovery" immediately after the original pilot. There were a lot — and I mean a LOT — of narrative excuses as to why the high-tech Discovery (realized with late-2010s special effects) didn't match the boxier, monochromatic world of "The Cage." 

The show's writers also needed to come up with an organic reason why a ship that can teleport — a technology that would have fundamentally changed the world of "Star Trek" — was never mentioned in any of the "Trek" shows made from 1966 until 2017. As such, at the end of the second season of "Discovery," the ship was thrown almost 1,000 years into the future in order to outrun an insidious computer intelligence that would spread throughout the galaxy if knowledge of it was passed around. As such, the Discovery more or less deleted itself from existence. As panicked, narrative ass-saving measures go, it's a 7.

2258: Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

The appearance of Capt. Pike on "Discovery" was so well-received that Paramount+ elected to go back to the Enterprise, bring back the characters from "The Cage," lump in a few familiar faces from the 1966 "Star Trek," and make " Strange New Worlds ," a series that takes place only eight years prior to the events of the original TV series. 

"Strange New Worlds" brings back Anson Mount as Pike, as well as a young Spock, a very young Uhura, a young Nurse Chapel, one of Khan's ancestors, and Dr. M'Benga, who showed up in a few episodes if the 1966 show. It also, notably, will not have season-long story arcs, but a single-hour episodic structure, standing in contrast with most of the other Paramount+-era "Star Treks," with "Lower Decks" being the proud exception.

2258 (KELVIN): Star Trek (2009)

Thanks to "Star Trek," the notion of parallel universes is quite well-known to the public. Incidentally, it's been quite odd watching the films and TV shows in the Marvel universe slow-walk the notion of a multiverse over the course of multiple installments when we've already seen Spock with a goatee. 

Thanks to complicated studio politics, there was a split in Paramount in the mid-2000s, and the Paramount side of the schism — when wanting to make a new "Star Trek" feature film — was legally required to make something distinguishable from the TV shows. Enter J.J. Abrams and his 2009 feature film " Star Trek " which takes place at the same time as "Strange New Worlds," but in a parallel universe where the characters from the 1966 show now look like a new cast, the Enterprise looks brighter and sleeker, and everything is more intense and action-packed. 

This new timeline would be created when a villain went back in time interfered with James T. Kirk right when he was born.

2259 (KELVIN): Star Trek Into Darkness

Although taking place far before the events of 1982's "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," J.J. Abrams' " Star Trek Into Darkness " (2013) drew a lot of story parallels to the Nicholas Meyer film. Taking place almost immediately after the 2009 film, "Into Darkness" involved the character of Khan who, in the timeline of the 1966 series, wouldn't be resurrected from cryogenic sleep for a few years hence. In "Into Darkness," he was awakened early, became involved in a plot to smuggle other cryogenically frozen compatriots. 

Originally, the Eugenics Wars were meant to have started in the 1990s, but — as "Star Trek" persisted, and the '90s came and went in the real world — that timeline had to be altered several times. The timeline of the Eugenics Wars in "Into Darkness" are a little unclear. As we saw above in "Star Trek: Picard," we know that they'll now take place sometime after 2024.

2263 (KELVIN): Star Trek Beyond

In Justin Lin's " Star Trek Beyond " (2016), Kirk (Chris Pine) laments that his adventures have already become episodic. It's unusual that the 2009 film and the 2013 sequel are essentially origin stories about the young Kirk coming into his own, and "Beyond" skips ahead to the point where he's already tired of being on "Star Trek." We missed the actual "five year mission" part!

Another interesting wrinkle in "Beyond" is that it alludes to a time somewhere after "Star Trek: Enterprise": The evil Kroll (Idris Elba) was, in fact, a human captain named Edison who led his own starship in the "Enterprise" era. Before the film, he was mutated into an evil alien. "Beyond," in explicitly mentioning the Xindi wars and other events from "Enterprise," anchors the Kelvin films a little more solidly into the "Trek" timeline.

2265 - 2269: Star Trek

After "The Cage" was abandoned by Paramount, the studio and Gene Roddenberry reworked the show into the 1966 program we all know and love. As mentioned, Spock was the only character carried over from the original pilot, and "Star Trek" now featured William Shatner as Captain Kirk and a host of new characters besides. "Star Trek" began as a horror show — there are many monsters and scare moments in the first season — eventually tackling ethical issues in a sci-fi fantasy context. 

"Star Trek" ran for three seasons, ending its initial run on June 3, 1969. Thanks to the gods of syndication, "Star Trek" would remain in reruns for the following decade, building up interest, spawning Trek conventions, and allowing the show to grow into a full-blown cultural phenomenon.

2269 - 2270: Star Trek: The Animated Series

In the opening credits of " Star Trek ," Shatner brazenly informed the audiences that the U.S.S. Enterprise was on a five-year mission. Given that the show was canned after only three years, there was more mission left to witness. In 1973, Roddenberry teamed up with Filmation to make an animated "Star Trek" series that would, by dint of its two seasons, ostensibly complete the five-year mission. Chekov (Walter Koenig) was absent from this show, but other unusual aliens took his place, including a cat woman named M'Ress and Mr. Aryx, a being with three arms. The animated format allowed for wilder ideas, aliens, and ships to be employed, and there are stories featuring flying serpents, aliens made of plants, an undersea episode, and a story with a 50-foot Spock. 

This 1973 version of "Star Trek," in only running 30 minutes per episode, cut out a lot of extraneous character moments from the traditional "Trek" structure, and got straight to the story. It's a far more efficient show than the 1966 program, and it has a passionate following of fans. 

2273: Star Trek: The Motion Picture

The decade of syndication, "Trek" conventions, and the financial success of George Lucas' sci-fi serial epic " Star Wars " in 1977 led Paramount to start thinking about restarting "Star Trek" on TV. A project was put into production that was to be called "Star Trek Phase II," and would have reunited several familiar "Trek" characters as well as introduce some new ones. For various reasons, "Phase II" was abandoned and elements of it were transformed into what would become the 1979 theatrical release " Star Trek: The Motion Picture ."

If all you had prior to "The Motion Picture" was a failed, low-budget TV show and a little-regarded animated series, this movie would feel grand in ways that you couldn't previously imagine. A lot of time was devoted to the size of the Enterprise, the importance of the characters, and mind-bending notions about the unending vastness of the cosmos. Here was a "Star Trek" film that is often compared to 1968's "2001: A Space Odyssey." Good gracious was it enormous. 

"The Motion Picture" was successful enough to warrant a sequel, but not so successful that Roddenberry was welcomed back. Remember that detail when we get to "Star Trek: The Next Generation."

2285: Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan and Star Trek III: The Search for Spock

2285 was a significant year. In the events of Nicholas Meyer's "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" (1982), a thawed out Khan — the version played by Ricardo Montalbán from the 1967 "Star Trek" episode "The Space Seed," not the version played by Benedict Cumberbatch in "Star Trek Into Darkness" — hijacked a starship called the U.S.S. Reliant and set out on a mission of revenge against Admiral Kirk. The good admiral, we find, had forgotten about a lot of irresponsible actions taken in his past and had to face them head on just as he was looking down the barrel of old age. "Star Trek II" didn't end well for Kirk or for Spock. In that film, Spock famously dies. 

Not wasting any time, however, Kirk and co. sprang back into action in Leonard Nimoy's " Star Trek III: The Search for Spock " (1984), which picks up immediately after "Khan" ended. Thanks to the fineries of Vulcan psychic powers, and a high tech radiation wave that can generate life out of nothing, Spock could potentially be resurrected, and Kirk hijacks the Enterprise in order to help a friend. In so doing, Kirk destroys the ship, rouses the ire of some Klingons, loses his son (killed by said Klingons), and possibly destroys his career in Starfleet. Oops. 

Perhaps one of the reasons "Star Trek IV" (which began in 2286) was so popular was that it was the first "Trek" film to end on a wholly positive note. 

2287: Star Trek V: The Final Frontier

Often cited as the worst of the "Trek" movies, William Shatner's "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier" (1989) starts with a promising concept, but was undone by a bad script hastily written during a strike, and a repeatedly cut FX budget. The film ultimately feels flimsy and ill-considered, not able to truly confront the interesting ideas it brings up. Shatner has apologized for the poor quality of his film, which was fraught with production troubles.

In "Frontier," a newly-built Enterprise is hijacked by Spock's half-brother Sybok (Laurence Luckinbill), who is leading a cult of brainwashed followers, freed from pain by their leader's psychic powers. He seeks a mysterious planet at the center of the galaxy where he believes God physically lives. The final frontier of the title is not space, but the soul, religion, or spirituality. Many "Trek" purists will point out that seeking the center of the galaxy, and finding a deity there, is similar to an Animated Series episode called "The Magicks of Megas-Tu," wherein Kirk found the planet at the center of the galaxy is actually home to Satan. 

Note : "The Magicks of Megas-Tu" is far better than "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier."

2293: Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Made after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Nicholas Meyer's " Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country " (1991) was very clearly a metaphor for the end of the Cold War. In it, the Klingon Empire is crippled by the accidental explosion of one of their moons, leaving the entire government requiring Federation help. "Country" is about how difficult it is to give up being enemies, especially when so much of one's identity is tied in with hate. There's an assassination, a investigation, a trial, a prison break ... It's one of the best "Trek" movies. 

One might glean from the title of the previous film in the series that the entire Kirk era was meant to end with "The Final Frontier." One might also glean that the poor reception and bad box office of "Final Frontier" led to one last go 'round. Fans may be relieved that the final feature film in the Kirk era was actually, y'know, a good one.

2364 - 2370: Star Trek: The Next Generation

Throughout the 1970s, Gene Roddenberry made tours on the convention circuit, talking about his vision for "Star Trek," and interacting with fans who were inspired by the peace, diplomacy, and calm that "Star Trek" has written into its DNA. Looking back over the 1966 show, notions of optimism and diplomacy are present, but they are mixed in with a lot of violence, sexism, and other now-backward ideas. After Roddenberry was essentially barred from involvement on the "Star Trek" feature films, he decided to make a purer, better version of his old show, set another 80 years in the future, and even more devoted to intelligence and diplomacy than ever before. Hence, 1987's " Star Trek: The Next Generation ." 

Taking place on a new ship, the Enterprise NCC-1701-D, and featuring an all new cast, the update of "Star Trek" started a little clumsily, but eventually found its stride to become the best "Star Trek" has offered to date. The tech was more convincing than it ever was, and it featured professional, adult characters who deal with crises with stiff upper lips. More so, it more frequently addressed questions about the meaning of life that humanity will always, it seems, wrestle with.

"Next Generation" last for seven full seasons, and its characters ended up occupying just as large a place in the pop consciousness as the characters from the 1966 TV series. 

Yes, "Next Generation" went back in time several times.

In terms of chronology, "Next Generation" overlapped with...

2369 - 2375: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

" Deep Space Nine " (1993 – 1999) was an unusual animal in many ways. It was the first time two "Star Trek" shows would run concurrently, and would take place over the same time frame (Picard from "Next Generation" appeared in the show's pilot). It was not about trekking at all, as it took place aboard a space station. It was also not set in the world of the Federation, often revolving alien species who were not offered protection from the organization. It was a show of healing and animosity. Of war and death. It started with an ensemble of seven or eight people, and eventually expanded to include about 30 main characters. "Deep Space Nine" is "Star Trek" via a Russian historical novel. 

When taken as a unit, "Next Generation" and "Deep Space Nine," both excellent in their own rights, become a complementary mass that is greater than their sum. The strength of diplomacy vs. its breakdown. The avoidance of war vs. the involvement in it. The absence of fascism vs. its inevitable regrowth. 

Yes, "Deep Space Nine" went back in time several times. 

"Deep Space Nine's" chronology would overlap with "Star Trek: Voyager," as well as with...

2371: Star Trek: Generations

The 1994 feature film " Star Trek: Generations " was a strange excursion. Although "Next Generation" had already run for seven years, "Generations" was still insistent on "passing the torch" from Kirk to Picard, and it bent over backwards to create the means by which Kirk and Picard, separated by 87 years of history, could meet face-to-face. It was the fan crossover no Trekkie wanted. As such, "Generations" is a flimsy affair, speeding through a ridiculous plot about a mobile temporal nexus that serves as Heaven for the people it scoops up along its path. 

Trekkies were even-headed enough to realize that Kirk and Picard weren't meant to meet, and that "Next Generation" was its own entity. The decision to aggressively tie the two shows even more closely together was just baffling. 

Notable too: The Enterprise-D was destroyed in "Generations," and would be replaced by a big ol' ugly thing for three additional feature films.

2371 - 2378: Star Trek: Voyager

" Star Trek: Voyager " debuted in 1995 and ran concurrently with "Deep Space Nine" both on television and within the chronology of "Star Trek." To cleverly avoid any interference between the two shows, however — "Deep Space Nine" would eventually become embroiled in a galaxy-spanning war — "Voyager" was given a "Lost in Space"-style premise wherein the title ship was thrown all the way across the galaxy to a portion of space that has never been explored by Starfleet, and could otherwise only be reached by 70 years of space travel. 

While the premise would perhaps lead a viewer to believe that "Voyager" was going to be about resource allocation and survival, it quickly became more about the Borg, a character played by actress Jeri Ryan, and Captain Janeway's (Kate Mulgrew) steady slide into autocracy. 

"Voyager" struggled with ratings for years, but still managed to last seven seasons like "Next Gen" and "Deep Space" before it. The final episode of "Voyager," a time travel story called " Endgame ," would air in March of 2001.

2375: Star Trek: Insurrection

While "Voyager" and "Deep Space Nine" were running concurrently on television, the "Next Generation" crew were yukking it up in the overwhelmingly mediocre 1998 Jonathan Frakes film " Star Trek: Insurrection ." Like "The Final Frontier," "Insurrection" can be seen straining against the limits of its budget, with bad CGI, bland costumes, and locations clearly found in the California mountains. The cheapness of "Star Trek" has often served as a boon for its story, forcing writers to insert interesting and challenging ideas into their plywood sets. "Insurrection" has no such ideas, asking the ethical question of forced relocation, but never feeling threatening, and offering a magical curative radiation that would require study and collection. 

Although one can admit this: "Insurrection" captures the tone of the "Next Generation" TV series far better than any of the other movies in this part of the series. It's a pity, though, that after the grand finale of "Next Generation," we find ourselves with suck lackluster films. 

Speaking of lackluster films ...

2379: Star Trek: Nemesis

Released in 2002, Stuart Baird's " Star Trek: Nemesis " was poised to be the final gasp for "Star Trek." "Enterprise" was already taking the franchise in a new direction, and the "NextGen" cast was clearly too tired to handle a continued barrage of poorly planned action movies, and thrillers that didn't resemble the show they were inspired by. "Nemesis" is dark and action-packed and violent and takes a lot of structural cues from "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan." 

In it, Tom Hardy plays a character named Shinzon who is, in fact, a clone of Captain Picard, grown in a Romulan lab, and eventually discarded into a Romulan mine. Shinzon escaped the mine, built an army, and is poised to take a giant death ship into Federation space to revenge all over people. "Nemesis" is also the film in which Data (Brent Spiner) dies, and Captain Picard drives a dune buggy. 

The sentiment of the time was reminiscent of T.S. Eliot's " The Hollow Men ." This is the way "Next Gen" ends. Not with a bang, but a whimper.

Worry not. There will be further whimpers for the NextGen crew.

2380 - ?: Star Trek: Lower Decks

Named after a seventh season episode of "Next Generation," and taking place in line with the end of "Nemesis" and "Voyager," " Star Trek: Lower Decks " debuted on Paramount+ in 2020 as part of a slew of "Star Trek"-related indicia that the company was desperate to exploit. And while the all-your-eggs-in-one basket approach to TV production affected by Paramount led to stinkers like "Discovery" and "Picard," it did lead to this surprisingly good animated program. 

One of the more appealing aspects of "Star Trek" is that it's essentially a series of workplace shows. The characters are typically vocation-forward, and take their duty to their ship very seriously. Where a "Star Trek" character works speaks powerfully to who they are. "Lower Decks" follows the people who have the worst possible jobs on a Starfleet vessel, often tasked with cleaning holodecks, sanitizing floors, and arranging widgets for the senior staff. It's rough going for ensigns. They sleep in the hallway and are typically not deemed important enough to include on more exciting missions. What's more, the central ship on "Lower Decks" is a tiny, crappy ship with substandard tech. Surely such jobs would exist in "Star Trek." 

"Lower Decks" is eager to make "Trek" references, and is clearly made by people who understand "Trek's" ethos, but who still have a raunchy sense of humor. The future is here. And it's still crappy for those on the bottom. 

2383: Star Trek: Prodigy

Produced under the auspices of Nickelodeon, " Star Trek: Prodigy " (2021) was the first Trek series to be made explicitly with a younger audience in mind. The series follows a ragtag group of alien youths as they flee a prison mine and discover an abandoned Starfleet vessel called the U.S.S. Protostar. On board is an instructional hologram of Captain Janeway from "Voyager," and she teaches the kids how to behave like Starfleet officers, the importance of duty and compassion, and how their trauma does not define them. The design and the creatures are more reminiscent of "Star Wars" than "Star Trek" (the series features an evil emperor and his powerful masked servant, invoking the Emperor and Darth Vader), but it certainly functions as a generic space adventure. The "Star Trek" stuff is mere window dressing. 

It's almost disappointing to include "Prodigy" on this timeline, as one of the show's central mysteries — at least for the first part of its first season, the only part to have aired as of this writing — is when and where it takes place. It was possible that "Prodigy" took place centuries or even millennia beyond the known Trek universe. The last we saw, however, the real Captain Janeway is still alive, giving "Prodigy" a known place in Trek chronology. 

2399: Star Trek: Picard (Season 1)

After nearly 20 years of a world without Picard, Paramount+ convinced Patrick Stewart to reprise his role in a new show named for him. " Star Trek: Picard " debuted on Paramount+ in 2020, taking place further in the future than any other Trek show to date. In the timeline of "Picard," the Federation had become soured by xenophobia and openly discouraged the evacuation of Romulus, historically an enemy world, but now in dire straits after their sun went supernova (something something J.J. Abrams). Picard had left Starfleet in disgust, and had now retired to his winery. 

The story of the first season is too convoluted to get into here, needless to say it involved a Romulan secret society, a planet of androids, a reclaimed Borg cube, and a robot Cthulhu. I'm not kidding. 

It's a pity that "Picard" did not roll with its future setting more, establishing new tech or positive sea changes in the "Trek" universe. Instead, everything is devoted to a chewy, awful story about androids. Indeed, by the end, Picard himself would have his consciousness shunted into an android body. What a snore.

3188 - 3190: Star Trek: Discovery (Seasons 3 and 4)

When last we saw the U.S.S. Discovery, it was being pulled through a time hole into the distant future. In the third and fourth seasons , Discovery's crew learns that they are stranded 930 years from home, and now must rediscover their function as Starfleet officers after the Federation went into hiding. A galaxy-wide disaster — The Burn — spontaneously destroyed millions of starships, and a fierce new criminal enterprise, The Emerald Syndicate, now rules the galaxy.

The 23rd-century ship now has to learn how to use 32nd-century technology. The Discovery was redesigned, and the new mission became to spread diplomacy in a galaxy unready for it. This is the premise, it seems, that Discovery should have started with two years prior. The writing is still rather weak, and the characters are callow and weepy, but "Discovery" does excel in one notable way: Queer representation. Seven of the main cast members are openly queer. After 55 years of a dodgy relationship with queerness, "Discovery" finally nailed it.

I just wish it were a better show.

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The Best '90s Sci-Fi TV Shows, Ranked

These are the best 1990s sci-fi shows, ranked from best to worst by user votes. Some good '90s sci-fi series are set centuries in the future, while other great 1990s sci-fi programs take place in the far reaches of outer space. A few of the most popular 1990s science fiction shows have been re-imagined in films.

What programs are featured on this best 1990s sci-fi shows list? Since premiering in 1993, The X-Files kept viewers on the edge of their seats as agents Mulder and Scully discovered that “The truth is out there.” This great '90s science fiction show was so popular that new episodes were created in 2016, long after it ended in 2002. Stargate SG-1 was another good sci-fi series that aired on television in the 1990s.

When an alien expedition landed on earth in 3rd Rock from the Sun , viewers discovered lots of laughs. Other great programs that appear on this top 1990s sci-fi shows list include Profiler , Sliders and Star Trek: The Next Generation .

What are the best 1990s sci-fi TV shows? Did the sci-fi series you think were the best make this list? Vote up the '90s sci-fi shows you think are the best of the decade.

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Continuing the legacy of Gene Roddenberry's iconic original series, Star Trek: The Next Generation became an instant classic with its exploration of social issues, technological advancements, and uncharted territories of space. Set in the 24th century, the show followed the adventures of the USS Enterprise-D and its diverse crew, led by the charismatic Captain Jean-Luc Picard. The series delved into a multitude of imaginative storylines, such as the existence of androids, alternate realities, and the ethical implications of advanced technology, that captivated its audience and provoked philosophical discussions. The Next Generation expertly carried the torch of its predecessor while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of science fiction television.

• Actors : Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden

Worth Your Time?

The X-Files

The X-Files , a groundbreaking series from the '90s, masterfully combined elements of science fiction, supernatural phenomena, and conspiracy theories to create a genuinely thrilling and thought-provoking experience for its viewers. With a dynamic duo of FBI agents, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, the show explored bizarre cases involving extraterrestrial encounters, advanced technology, and cryptic government cover-ups. The engrossing storytelling, which utilized both episodic and serialized narratives, helped to broaden the scope of science fiction on television . Moreover, the complex character development and chemistry between the leads further solidified The X-Files as a standout example of 1990s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi, Robert Patrick, Annabeth Gish

Stargate SG-1

Expanding upon the premise of the 1994 film, Stargate , this captivating series introduced viewers to the secret military organization known as the Stargate Command, whose members traverse the galaxy through ancient wormhole technology. Stargate SG-1 expertly blended elements of Egyptian mythology, advanced alien technology, and military drama, creating a unique and engaging sci-fi experience. The series drew viewers in with its compelling characters, including the intelligent archaeologist Dr. Daniel Jackson and the resourceful military expert Colonel Jack O'Neill, who often found themselves entangled in complex interstellar politics and battles. Showcasing a rich and well-developed mythology, Stargate SG-1 remains a defining example of '90s science fiction TV .

• Actors : Amanda Tapping, Michael Shanks, Christopher Judge, Richard Dean Anderson, Ben Browder

A unique and innovative addition to the sci-fi genre, Farscape took viewers on a wild ride through uncharted territories of space as it followed astronaut John Crichton, who finds himself stranded aboard a living spaceship filled with alien outlaws. The series showcased inventive storytelling and a diverse cast of characters, including animatronics and puppetry from the legendary Jim Henson Company, to create a visually stunning and emotionally captivating experience for its audience. In addition to its technological advancements and spacefaring adventures, Farscape delved into themes of cultural identity, prejudice, and personal growth, providing depth and nuance to its unconventional narrative. This imaginative series remains a standout example of 1990s sci-fi television, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

• Actors : Ben Browder, Claudia Black, Anthony Simcoe, Jonathan Hardy, Lani John Tupu

Quantum Leap

Innovative in its time-travel premise, Quantum Leap starred Scott Bakula as Dr. Sam Beckett, a scientist who becomes trapped in a time loop, "leaping" into the lives of various individuals throughout history. With its mix of futuristic technology and historical events, the show pushed the boundaries of science fiction by blending episodic storytelling with a strong focus on human experiences and character development. Quantum Leap also used its time-travel platform to examine thought-provoking social and ethical issues, from racism to animal rights, proving science fiction could engage viewers emotionally and intellectually. Its unique, character-driven approach ensures Quantum Leap remains a beloved and influential example of 1990s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Scott Bakula, Dean Stockwell, Dennis Wolfberg, W. K. Stratton, Carolyn Seymour

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Set on a remote space station near a coveted wormhole, Deep Space Nine defied the traditional Star Trek formula, exchanging exploration for interpersonal conflict and political intrigue. The series delved into deep moral and ethical issues, such as the nature of war, the consequences of oppression, and the complexity of religious faith, showcasing the versatility of the science fiction genre. With its darker tone, serialized storytelling, and rich character development, Deep Space Nine presented viewers with a more complex and mature take on the Star Trek universe. This daring departure from the franchise's norms solidified its status as an unforgettable and groundbreaking sci-fi series of the '90s.

• Actors : Avery Brooks, Rene Auberjonois, Nana Visitor, Michael Dorn, Cirroc Lofton

Star Trek: Voyager

Breaking new ground in the Star Trek universe, Voyager introduced fans to the franchise's first female captain, Kathryn Janeway, and her diverse crew aboard the USS Voyager, stranded in the uncharted Delta Quadrant. The series excelled in incorporating cutting-edge technology, such as the Emergency Medical Hologram and bio-neural circuitry, alongside engaging storylines involving time travel, alternate dimensions, and advanced alien species. Voyager also explored themes of social and political issues, such as gender equality, environmentalism, and cultural assimilation, while boldly going where no Star Trek series had gone before. By taking risks and challenging conventions, Star Trek: Voyager solidified its status as a pivotal sci-fi series of the '90s.

• Actors : Kate Mulgrew, Robert Beltran, Roxann Dawson, Robert Duncan McNeill, Ethan Phillips

Babylon 5 , a groundbreaking series set on a space station tasked with maintaining fragile interstellar peace, daringly embraced serialized storytelling, weaving intricate plotlines and complex character arcs throughout its five-season run. In addition to exploring futuristic technology and alien species, the show ambitiously tackled themes of war, politics, and self-discovery, offering viewers a captivating blend of action, drama, and philosophic debate. Its creator, J. Michael Straczynski, also introduced innovative visual effects, utilizing computer-generated imagery to bring life to the vast expanse of space and intricate spacecraft designs. Through its bold narrative structure and pioneering special effects, Babylon 5 remains a legendary example of 1990s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Bruce Boxleitner, Claudia Christian, Jerry Doyle, Mira Furlan, Richard Biggs

Challenging the science fiction status quo, Sliders introduced viewers to a group of travelers who used a wormhole technology to "slide" between parallel dimensions, encountering alternate versions of Earth along their adventures. With its unique premise, the series delved into thought-provoking storylines that explored alternate histories, social issues, and innovative technology while simultaneously raising questions about morality, personal choice, and the nature of reality. The dynamic ensemble of characters, led by physics prodigy Quinn Mallory, brought humor, heart, and humanity to the often bizarre and unpredictable worlds they encountered. As a compelling blend of adventure and speculation, Sliders stands out as an exceptional and innovative example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Jerry O'Connell, John Rhys-Davies, Kari Wuhrer, Cleavant Derricks, Robert Floyd

The Outer Limits

Reviving the spirit of the original '60s anthology series, The Outer Limits showcased standalone episodes that delved into the realms of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, often culminating in a dramatic twist. The series explored themes such as artificial intelligence, genetic manipulation, and extraterrestrial encounters, creating thought-provoking and suspenseful narratives that challenged viewers' perceptions and assumptions. With its striking visual style and innovative storytelling, The Outer Limits reaffirmed the power of the anthology format to push the boundaries of science fiction television. This captivating revival remains an enduring example of the creative potential of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Kevin Conway

Unapologetically unconventional, Red Dwarf fused science fiction with British humor to create a cult classic that followed the eclectic crew of a titular mining spaceship through space and time. The series used its futuristic setting and outrageous plotlines to explore the human condition, often showcasing advanced technology and bizarre alien encounters amidst clever satire, biting wit, and hilarious banter. With a memorable cast of characters, including the last human alive, a holographic projection, a humanoid feline, and a servile robot, Red Dwarf demonstrated the expansive potential of science fiction to entertain, surprise, and provoke laughter. This irreverent and imaginative series remains a beloved treasure in the realm of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Craig Charles, Danny John-Jules, Chris Barrie, Robert Llewellyn, Norman Lovett

3rd Rock from the Sun

Blending elements of science fiction and sitcom, 3rd Rock from the Sun provided a refreshing and humorous spin on the genre by following a group of extraterrestrial "visitors" as they attempted to understand human society while living undercover as a suburban family. The series brilliantly used its alien perspective to explore and satirize modern-day human customs, behaviors, and technology, revealing both the absurdity and complexity of human life. Bolstered by an exceptional ensemble cast led by John Lithgow and an engaging comedic energy, 3rd Rock from the Sun demonstrated that science fiction could be both enlightening and uproariously funny. Its innovative approach and timeless humor ensure this quirky series remains a standout example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : John Lithgow, Jane Curtin, Kristen Johnston, French Stewart, Joseph Gordon-Levitt

seaQuest DSV

Set in the near future, seaQuest DSV imagined a world where humans had colonized the ocean floor, utilizing cutting-edge technology to explore and protect the vast underwater frontier. The series followed the crew of a state-of-the-art submarine, navigating geopolitical conflicts, environmental crises, and encounters with mysterious aquatic creatures. With its unique setting and focus on marine exploration, seaQuest DSV offered viewers a fresh and inventive twist on the science fiction genre. Its innovative premise and thoughtful storytelling make it a memorable and compelling example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Roy Scheider, Jonathan Brandis, Don Franklin, Rosalind Allen, Edward Kerr

Mystery Science Theater 3000

As an ingenious fusion of science fiction and comedy, Mystery Science Theater 3000 broke new ground with its imaginative premise: a captive human and his robot companions are forced to endure an endless stream of low-budget sci-fi movies, all the while providing hilarious running commentary and sketches. The show cleverly navigated the intersection of science fiction and pop culture, offering viewers a unique perspective on the genre's history, tropes, and clichés. MST3K's innovative format and sharp wit not only entertained audiences but also redefined the possibilities of science fiction television. This beloved cult classic stands as an enduring and influential testament to the creative potential of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Mike Nelson, Joel Hodgson

With its playful fusion of science fiction and sitcom, ALF delighted viewers with its unique premise of a lovable and wisecracking alien from the planet Melmac who becomes a part of a suburban family after crash-landing on Earth. The show cleverly navigated the intersection of otherworldly technology and human customs, showcasing the comedic potential of extraterrestrial encounters and the cultural misunderstandings that ensued. ALF's endearing antics and the humorous dynamics between the characters helped popularize the concept of aliens living among humans on television, paving the way for future sci-fi comedies. The show remains an endearing and iconic staple of '90s sci-fi TV, still capturing hearts with its charm and wit.

• Actors : Max Wright, Paul Fusco, Anne Schedeen, Andrea Elson, Benji Gregory

Alien Nation

Exploring the challenges of cultural integration and xenophobia, Alien Nation presented a unique take on the science fiction genre by depicting a futuristic society where human coexisted with extraterrestrial refugees known as Newcomers. The series adeptly used its sci-fi premise to address social issues, such as racism, discrimination, and cultural understanding, through compelling character-driven narratives that transcended genre boundaries. With a diverse cast of characters showcasing different perspectives, Alien Nation provided insightful and thought-provoking commentary on real-world issues, proving that science fiction could serve as an effective platform for social exploration. This groundbreaking show's innovative approach and poignant storytelling continue to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a defining example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Gary Graham, Eric Pierpoint, Michele Scarabelli, Sean Six, Terri Treas

Adapted from R.L. Stine's best-selling book series, Goosebumps captivated young audiences with its spine-tingling tales of supernatural phenomena, extraterrestrial visitors, and advanced technology gone awry. Though targeted towards children and teens, the show's imaginative storylines and memorable characters resonated with viewers of all ages, introducing an entire generation to the thrills and chills of science fiction and horror. Goosebumps demonstrated that science fiction could be accessible, engaging, and age-appropriate without sacrificing quality or ambition. This iconic series remains a beloved and influential part of '90s sci-fi TV history.

• Actors : R.L. Stine, Kathryn Short, Cody Jones

Set in the mysterious town of Roswell , New Mexico, this captivating series followed the lives of three teenage aliens hiding their true identities while navigating high school life and relationships. Blending elements of science fiction, romance, and teen drama, Roswell delved into themes of identity, loyalty, and trust, exploring the impact of extraterrestrial origins on the characters' lives and relationships. With its compelling storylines and engaging characters, the show effectively showcased the human side of science fiction, fostering empathy and intrigue. Roswell's unique combination of genres and its focus on character development has solidified its status as a beloved and influential example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Shiri Appleby, Jason Behr, Katherine Heigl, Majandra Delfino, Brendan Fehr

Envisioning humanity's quest for a new home in the far reaches of space, Earth 2 chronicled the courageous efforts of a group of colonists attempting to establish a settlement on an unexplored alien planet. This captivating series masterfully combined elements of futuristic technology, survival drama, and extraterrestrial encounters to create a suspenseful and engaging viewing experience. The complex and dynamic relationships between the diverse cast of characters added depth to the show's exploration of colonization, cooperation, and the struggle for survival. Earth 2's innovative premise and adventurous spirit continue to resonate with fans, making it a standout example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Debrah Farentino, Clancy Brown, Sullivan Walker

From the creator of The X-Files , Millennium delved into the dark and mysterious world of a gifted former FBI agent who joins a secretive organization called the Millennium Group, tasked with combating apocalyptic threats and supernatural phenomena. The series masterfully blended elements of science fiction, horror, and crime drama to create a thrilling and unsettling viewing experience that challenged conventional genre boundaries. Millennium also explored themes of destiny, morality, and the nature of evil, providing thought-provoking commentary on the human condition. Its ambitious storytelling, complex characters, and chilling atmosphere cemented Millennium's status as a haunting and unforgettable example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Lance Henriksen, Klea Scott, Brittany Tiplady, Stephen E. Miller

With its inventive premise of time travel technology allowing its user to journey back exactly seven days to prevent disasters and catastrophes, Seven Days offered viewers thrilling adventures and high-stakes action while raising questions about the ethical implications of altering the past. The series balanced its futuristic concepts with engaging characters and compelling storylines, providing a unique blend of excitement, suspense, and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience through the lens of time travel. Seven Days' ambitious narrative structure and its unique twist on the sci-fi genre made it a standout example of '90s science fiction television, demonstrating that it was possible to entertain and challenge audiences simultaneously.

• Actors : Jonathan LaPaglia, Don Franklin, Justina Vail

Exploring the age-old trope of alien invasion with a fresh and innovative twist, First Wave followed the journey of a man who discovers that he has been chosen to battle an insidious alien force known as the Gua. Drawing its inspiration from the writings of Nostradamus, the series skillfully interwove elements of prophecy, advanced technology, and extraterrestrial intrigue to create an absorbing and thought-provoking viewing experience. With its engaging characters, suspenseful storytelling, and imaginative premise, First Wave demonstrated that it was possible to reinvent and invigorate a familiar science fiction concept. The show's enduring appeal and inventive spirit continue to captivate fans, securing its status as an essential example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Traci Lords, Roger Cross, Rob LaBelle, Joe Pascual, Sebastian Spence

The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest

Reinvigorating the classic '60s animated series, The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest brought new life to the titular character and his allies as they embarked on thrilling expeditions into a world of advanced technology, exotic locations, and dangerous adversaries. The series deftly balanced traditional animation with cutting-edge computer-generated imagery to create a visually stunning and imaginative viewing experience. With its exciting adventures and engaging characters, The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest demonstrated the enduring appeal of its source material while pushing the boundaries of animated science fiction storytelling. Its innovative approach and timeless charm continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved part of '90s sci-fi TV history.

• Actors : Frank Welker, Quinton Flynn, J.D. Roth

Set during the tumultuous 1960s, Dark Skies weaved a chilling and intricate tale of alien invasion and government conspiracy, blending historical events with imaginative science fiction elements. The series followed a young couple as they became entangled in a shadowy battle to protect Earth from a covert extraterrestrial threat known as the Hive. With its suspenseful storytelling, richly drawn characters, and effective use of period detail, Dark Skies showcased the power of science fiction to captivate audiences and explore the darker side of human history. This thrilling and innovative show remains a haunting and memorable presence in the landscape of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Jeri Ryan, J. T. Walsh, Eric Close, Gregory Harrison, Tim Kelleher

As a groundbreaking animated series, Aeon Flux redefined the boundaries of science fiction television with its dystopian vision of the future, fluid animation style, and enigmatic storytelling. Centered on the titular secret agent and her missions in a world ravaged by political intrigue and advanced technology, the show delved into themes of control, individuality, and the balance between order and chaos. Aeon Flux's groundbreaking visual style and thought-provoking narratives captivated audiences and demonstrated the potent possibilities of animation as a medium for exploring complex and mature science fiction themes. The show's lasting impact and influence make it an essential example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Denise Poirier, John Rafter Lee, Julia Fletcher

Based on the popular book series by William Shatner, TekWar transported viewers to a futuristic world where a former law enforcement officer is tasked with battling a powerful and addictive virtual reality drug known as Tek. The series expertly combined elements of crime drama, advanced technology, and cyberpunk aesthetics to create a unique and immersive science fiction world. With its compelling characters, intriguing mysteries, and exploration of the consequences of technological advancement, TekWar showcased the potential for science fiction to provide both entertainment and thought-provoking social commentary. This innovative and captivating series remains a standout example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Greg Evigan

Nowhere Man

Offering an intriguing twist on the science fiction genre, Nowhere Man followed the life of a photojournalist whose entire existence is seemingly erased overnight, transforming him into a fugitive forced to unravel a vast and sinister conspiracy. The series skillfully blended elements of psychological drama, advanced technology, and shadowy intrigue to create an enigmatic and suspenseful viewing experience that challenged viewers' perceptions of reality. With its captivating storytelling, complex characters, and intricate plotlines, Nowhere Man showcased the power of science fiction to delve into the depths of the human psyche and explore the darker side of technological advancement. This unique and thought-provoking show remains a revered and influential example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Bruce Greenwood

A spin-off of the acclaimed Babylon 5 , Crusade followed the crew of the starship Excalibur as they embarked on a desperate mission to find a cure for a deadly alien plague threatening Earth. The series expanded upon the rich mythology and universe established in Babylon 5 , exploring new aspects of interstellar politics, advanced technology, and the struggle for survival. With its compelling characters and suspenseful storytelling, Crusade showcased the potential for thoughtful and engaging science fiction drama within the context of a larger narrative universe. Though short-lived, the series remains a memorable and cherished entry in the realm of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Gary Cole, Daniel Dae Kim

In an inventive fusion of time-travel and crime-fighting, Time Trax followed the adventures of a 22nd-century police officer who travels back to the 1990s to apprehend fugitives, armed with advanced technology and a vast knowledge of future events. The show skillfully combined elements of action, suspense, and science fiction while raising questions about the moral implications of altering the past and the power of advanced technology. With its engaging characters, thrilling storylines, and unique premise, Time Trax offered viewers a fresh and entertaining twist on the sci-fi genre. This captivating series remains an enduring and noteworthy example of '90s sci-fi TV.

• Actors : Dale Midkiff, Liz Alexander, Peter Donat

Adapted from the popular book series by K.A. Applegate, Animorphs brought to life the thrilling adventures of five teenagers who are granted the extraordinary power to morph into animals in order to battle a secret alien invasion. The show skillfully balanced elements of science fiction, action, and teen drama, exploring themes such as identity, courage, and the struggle for freedom in the face of overwhelming odds. With its captivating storylines, relatable characters, and imaginative premise, Animorphs demonstrated that sci-fi television could be accessible, engaging, and relevant to younger audiences. Despite its short-lived run, the show remains a fondly remembered part of '90s sci-fi TV history.

• Actors : Shawn Ashmore, Brooke Nevin, Boris Cabrera, Nadia Nascimento, Christopher Ralph

With its unique blend of science fiction and evolutionary biology, Prey presented a chilling vision of humanity's future, as a newly evolved species of humans threatens to usurp the dominant role of Homo sapiens on Earth. The series followed a group of scientists, led by the brilliant Dr. Sloan Parker, as they race against time to understand and combat this powerful new predator. Through its thought-provoking premise and suspenseful storytelling, Prey explored themes such as evolution, survival, and the natural order, providing a compelling and unsettling examination of humanity's place in the world. Though its run was brief, the show left a lasting impact on the landscape of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Debra Messing, Frankie Faison, Christopher Titus, James Morrison, Roger Howarth

Flash Gordon

Reimagining the beloved comic-strip hero for a new generation, Flash Gordon followed the interstellar adventures of its eponymous hero as he battled evil forces and sought to protect the galaxy from the sinister machinations of the tyrannical Ming the Merciless. The series showcased futuristic technology, exotic alien worlds, and daring heroics, providing an exciting and imaginative sci-fi viewing experience for fans old and new. Though short-lived, Flash Gordon's ambitious storytelling and iconic characters ensured its lasting impact on the world of science fiction television. Its enduring legacy can still be felt today, testifying to its status as a cherished part of '90s sci-fi TV history.

• Actors : Paul Shaffer, Lexa Doig

Exploring the cutting edge of virtual reality technology, VR.5 followed the life of a young computer expert who discovers that she can access the minds and memories of others through a groundbreaking VR interface. The series delved into themes such as memory, identity, and the blurred boundary between the virtual and real worlds, offering viewers a thought-provoking and suspenseful journey into the realm of advanced technology. With its engaging characters, innovative premise, and evocative storytelling, VR.5 showcased the potential of science fiction to provide both entertainment and meaningful exploration of the human condition. This captivating and groundbreaking show remains a standout example of '90s sci-fi television.

• Actors : Lori Singer, Michael Easton, Anthony Head

RoboCop: Alpha Commando

As a continuation of the iconic RoboCop film series, RoboCop: Alpha Commando introduced viewers to an animated world where the titular cyborg law enforcer returns to action, armed with advanced technology and a relentless pursuit of justice. The series masterfully blended elements of action, crime-fighting, and science fiction, offering fans a thrilling and imaginative exploration of RoboCop's enduring struggle against crime and corruption. With its captivating storytelling, iconic characters, and innovative premise, RoboCop: Alpha Commando remains a cherished and influential part of '90s sci-fi TV history.

• Actors : David Sobolov, Akiko Morison, Dean Haglund

Harsh Realm

From the creator of The X-Files , Harsh Realm transported viewers into a fully immersive virtual reality universe, where a skilled soldier must navigate a dangerous and unpredictable landscape in order to save the real world from a rogue military officer. The series offered a compelling exploration of the intersection of advanced technology, human nature, and the power of illusion, weaving a rich tapestry of suspense, intrigue, and thought-provoking themes. Though its run was short-lived, Harsh Realm's innovative premise and captivating storytelling left a lasting impact on the world of '90s sci-fi TV, demonstrating the genre's potential to challenge and entertain in equal measure.

• Actors : Scott Bairstow, D.B. Sweeney, Terry O'Quinn

Crime Traveller

Merging elements of science fiction and detective drama, Crime Traveller presented a unique twist on the classic whodunit formula, as a pair of investigators use a time machine to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. The show skillfully combined suspenseful storytelling, futuristic technology, and the age-old appeal of solving mysteries, offering viewers an engaging and innovative take on the sci-fi genre. With its dynamic characters and captivating premise, Crime Traveller remains a beloved and memorable entry in the world of '90s sci-fi television, showcasing the potential for creative reinvention within established genres.

• Actors : Sue Johnston, Chloë Annett, Michael French, Paul Trussell, Bob Goody

Super Force

Blending elements of science fiction, action, and crime drama, Super Force followed the life of a former astronaut who dons a high-tech suit of armor to bring justice and order to a lawless future society. The show showcased futuristic technology, daring heroics, and gripping storylines, providing an entertaining and imaginative spin on the classic superhero archetype. With its engaging characters and inventive premise, Super Force made a lasting impression on the world of '90s sci-fi television and continues to resonate with fans of action-packed and imaginative storytelling.

• Actors : Patrick Macnee, Musetta Vander, Marc Macaulay, Ken Olandt, Antoni Corone

Lost on Earth

Lost on Earth offered viewers a refreshingly light-hearted take on the science fiction genre, as a group of hapless aliens find themselves stranded on Earth and forced to navigate the strange and unpredictable world of human society. The series used its humorous premise to explore themes such as culture shock, assimilation, and the universality of the human experience, providing both laughs and thought-provoking insights. With its engaging characters and quirky storytelling, Lost on Earth remains a memorable and endearing example of '90s sci-fi television that demonstrates the genre's potential for comedy and heartfelt exploration of the human condition.

• Actors : Paul Gleason, Stacy Galina, Tim Conlon

Jupiter Moon

Set aboard a space station orbiting the distant planet Jupiter, Jupiter Moon offered a unique blend of science fiction, soap opera, and character-driven drama. The series explored themes such as ambition, love, and the challenges of living in a confined and isolated environment, all the while showcasing cutting-edge technology and breathtaking visuals depicting the vast expanse of outer space. With its distinctive blend of genres and its focus on the human experience, Jupiter Moon provided a fresh and inventive take on the world of '90s sci-fi television, demonstrating the potential for science fiction to resonate with audiences on a deeply personal and emotional level.

• Actors : Lucy Benjamin, Anna Chancellor, Fay Masterson, Richard Lintern, Jamie Glover
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Every STAR TREK Series, Ranked from Worst to Best

Star Trek is a pop culture franchise that just won’t quit. Now over five decades into its existence, it has outgrown its humble beginnings as a low-budget sci-fi show with a loyal cult following, and into a true cultural juggernaut. Who doesn’t know the phrases “beam me up” or “ live long and prosper? ” It’s ingrained in our collective psyche. And the franchise is going stronger than ever, with several shows currently airing. But of all these new series, and the many that came before, which one is the cream of the crop? It’s time to evaluate each of the eleven series set in the Final Frontier from the past 55 years .  Here’s our ranking of every Star Trek series, from worst to best.

11. Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973-1975)

Yes, it’s at the bottom, but I’d never say this is a bad series. There are some smart sci-fi scripts spread throughout the show’s two-season run, notably the time-travel episode “Yesteryear,” which gave us a glimpse into Spock’s childhood. But the animation was really limited due to budget constraints, and the voice actors didn’t even record together (and it shows). We give it points for keeping the Trek flames burning in the long decade between the original series and Star Trek: The Motion Picture , but it still ranks last. If only because there’s simply not enough of it.

10. Star Trek: Lower Decks (2020-Present)

We’re now three seasons into the first animated Trek show since the ’70s, and also the first overtly comedic sh o w in the franchise’s history. Lower Decks centers around a second-tier starship’s junior crew, and so far, it has gained quite a cult following. The mix of irreverent humor and lovable characters has made it very endearing. It’s also very faithful to Star Trek lore (if not Star Trek storytelling sensibilities .) But the show is ultimately too fluffy to place any higher. That could change down the line of course. But for now, the crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos is near the bottom. They’re probably used to it.

9. Star Trek: Enterprise (2001-2005)

This is the fourth and last Star Trek series of the Rick Berman era. The show ran on UPN for four seasons, making it the shortest run of the modern Trek series (so far). Despite a winning cast lead by Scott Bakula as Captain Jonathan Archer, this prequel show to the original Trek felt stuck in the television tropes of the prior decade. It didn’t really even feel like a true Star Trek prequel until the show’s wonderful fourth and final season. But that season’s not enough to save the show’s legacy as a whole. Also, the theme song was pretty cringe-worthy and out of place for a Star Trek series.

8. Star Trek: Picard (2020-Present)

This live-action series saw the return of Sir Patrick Stewart as the (now retired) Jean-Luc Picard . Although the series started out promisingly , its plot about a race of artificial lifeforms was ultimately way too similar to Battlestar Galactica and Blade Runner, both of which did the same story, but better. It also showed the once-Utopian world of the 24th century as a place now filled with bitter, broken people, which was a bummer. Stewart is fantastic as always, and his inner journey helped the show remain very watchable. But the promise of a full TNG cast reunion in the third and final season could push this series much higher. 

7. Star Trek: Discovery (2017-Present)

Star Trek: Discovery is the franchise’s current “flagship show.” Four seasons in, the show is definitely a mixed bag. On the pro side: the cast—headed by Sonequa Martin-Green—is truly fantastic, and it has the best production value of any Trek to date. But like too much modern Trek , it often feels like it’s cribbing from other (more popular) franchises. Its prequel timeline/continuity was also handled messily from the get-go.

The series’ first two seasons are set about a decade before the original series. But in season three, the show went way past where any Trek has gone before, by jumping 1,000 years into the future. This was ultimately a good thing, as the journey past the prequel timeline and into an unknown future gave the show a much-needed shot in the arm. And season four further improved upon the third. Maybe with time, Discovery will move up higher on this list.

6. Star Trek: Prodigy (2021-Present)

Star Trek: Prodigy is the first animated all-ages Star Trek series since the 1973 Saturday morning cartoon show. Because of this, many fans dismissed it offhand before it ever aired. But Prodigy , about a group of misfit kids who commandeer a prototype Federations starship, the Protostar , in the far reaches of space, turned out to be absolutely delightful. And very true to the core, exploratory spirit of the franchise .

The camaraderie between the main cast of kids is always heartwarming, and this series has more ties to greater franchise lore than most other modern Trek shows. Of course, the addition of Kate Mulgrew as Kathryn Janeway, both the “training hologram” version, and the actual Admiral Janeway, that’s just the cherry on top. One of the best modern Star Trek shows, “kid’s show” or not.

5. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022-Present)

It almost feels like cheating, putting a show with just one season behind it so high on this list. But so far, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is the best Trek series of the modern streaming era. It also has had the best first season of any Trek since the original series. Technically a prequel to the original show , SNW fulfills the promise of that first unaired pilot episode “The Cage,” by focusing on Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount) and his Number One (Rebecca Romijn). Of course, young Spock is there too, played by Ethan Peck. Together, they’ve created a new trio of instantly likable headliners.

SNW returns to the “one and done” story format of classic Trek , but gives it all a modern sheen. The color scheme and ship designs may be retro, but it’s never done in a dismissive, kitschy way. In many ways, SNW reminds us why the original format of the show, about a crew of diverse people engaged in pure exploration and diplomacy, is still the best way to go. The characters are great, the actors are great, the writing is great. So we only expect SNW to climb further up this chart as more seasons roll in, assuming they don’t drop the ball.

4. Star Trek: Voyager (1995-2001)

Let’s get this out of the way: Kate Mulgrew as Captain Janeway was a great Captain , and the rest of the cast was terrific as well. But this series never fully lived up to its premise. It was supposedly about a Federation starship lost in space, years from home. A ship with a crew made up of former enemies, now forced to work together. But you’d almost never know it watching the show, which often felt like a series desperately trying to capture the glory of the TNG years.

Many episodes of Voyager, especially in the first few seasons, felt very familiar to those that had aired just a couple of years earlier on The Next Generation . However, enough episodes scattered throughout are indeed quite terrific, but there really should be more of those for a series that lasted seven seasons. We’re glad the legacy of Voyager lives on with Seven of Nine on Picard, and with Janeway as a principal character on Prodigy.

3. Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

This show had everything going against it when it premiered in 1987 . How does one follow up on something as iconic as the original Star Trek ? And with all new characters and a new starship Enterprise ? Well, after a very wobbly first two seasons, the show found its footing in season three. It then became a true standout sci-fi series with dozens of classic episodes . Seasons three through seven are, in many ways, as good as this franchise gets.

Patrick Stewart is arguably the best actor ever to sit in the Captain’s chair, and the characters of Picard, Data, Worf, and the rest have all become pop culture icons. It also has one of the best series finales of any show ever. TNG represented Star Trek at its peak mainstream popularity, and no show before or since has matched its ratings power. The only reason this doesn’t rank slightly higher is that the first two seasons really are kind of a mess, and lower the value ever so slightly.

2. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993-1999)

Much like TNG before it, Deep Space Nine took about two seasons to find its footing. This despite always showcasing a stellar cast, headlined by Avery Brooks, playing the first African-American lead in a Star Trek show. But man oh man, despite the rough start, when it finally did click, it became one of the most ambitious science-fiction series ever produced for television. It did serialized, complex genre storytelling a good decade before that became the norm.

DS9 dealt with themes of religion and war and politics among the usual Star Trek tropes. Not one character was the same at the end of this series as they were at the start of it. The same can’t be said for most other shows on this list, even the best ones. It also expanded and deepened our understanding of the many different species introduced in previous Trek shows. Plus it gave us the franchise’s best villains in Gul Dukat, and later, the Dominion. This is one Trek series that broke the mold.

1. Star Trek: The Original Series (1966-1969)

Without Gene Roddenberry’s original series, there simply is no Star Trek franchise, period. It created the template that eight of the series that followed it picked up on. The original series was ground zero for modern nerd fandom, and it made pop culture icons of William Shatner’s Captain Kirk and Leonard Nimoy’s Mr. Spock. But beyond all that enduring cultural legacy, the character dynamic of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy remains one of the greatest ever seen in popular entertainment.

Looking back, we can see that Star Trek’s first season was nearly flawless, with almost thirty amazing episodes written by legends of the science-fiction genre. Season two is great as well, and season three is…well, it is less so. Regardless of that wonky last season though, the iconic nature of Star Trek: The Original Series , which spawned six feature films and a 21st century reboot of the characters, still wins hands down. Forget the dated music, visual effects, and occasionally cheesy acting. When it was at its best, you just couldn’t beat the original series.

Featured Image: CBS

Originally published in 2019.

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Star Trek TV Shows Ranked by Tomatometer

Updated: September 8, 2023

The Star Trek universe kicked off in 1966 with the original series , created by science fiction visionary Gene Roddenberry , and later exploded into a massive film and TV juggernaut.

While the original series, which starred William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk and Leonard Nimoy as Mr. Spock, saw only three seasons, it made an indelible impression on the sci-fi genre. Live-action TV follow-up Star Trek: The Next Generation , with  Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard leading an ensemble cast, captivated viewers from 1987–1994 and inspired three more series that would air within the next decade:  Star Trek: Deep Space Nine ,  Star Trek: Voyager , and  Star Trek: Enterprise .

Starting with 1979’s  Star Trek: The Motion Picture , Paramount Pictures has been regularly cranking out Trek films with the original series and Next Generation casts, as well as a rebooted version in 2009 with Chris Pine as Starfleet Academy cadet James Kirk and Zachary Quinto as young Spock. ( See the Star Trek films ranked here. )

In 2017,  Trek  returned to small screens with season 1 of CBS All Access streaming title  Star Trek: Discovery , set during a tumultuous wartime era about a decade before the original and starring Sonequa Martin-Green . The new series marked a TV franchise reboot by Alex Kurtzman , writer on the 2009 Star Trek film and its sequel  Star Trek Into Darkness .

RELATED: All Star Trek Movies Ranked by Tomatometer

The year 2020 gave fans a celebration of one of its most iconic characters with the premiere of Star Trek: Picard and Stewart reprising his role in the new streaming series that launched its second season in 2022. New live-action series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds was also released in 2022, and its first season was quickly Certified Fresh with a 100% Tomatometer score (it has since dropped to 99% on one review). The show’s second season, released in 2023, was nearly as well received and is Certified Fresh at 97% on the Tomatometer.

The TV franchise has since introduced two animated series Star Trek: Lower Decks , about the misfit support crew on one of Starfleet’s least-important ships, and kid-friendly Star Trek: Prodigy , which tells the story of a diverse group of teens who inadvertently become the crew of a prize starship and learn important lessons in their subsequent adventures. The latter series — No. 3 on our list below — has since been canceled by Paramount+, but a petition to save the show has gathered over 33,000 signatures.

Have a look below to find out which series score highest with critics in our Trek TV by Tomatometer list.

Disagree with the results? Tell us in the comments which series you think should have been ranked higher (or lower).

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022) 98%

Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973) 94%

Star Trek: Prodigy (2021) 97%

Star Trek: Lower Decks (2020) 92%

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) 92%

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993) 91%

Star Trek: Picard (2020) 89%

Star Trek: Discovery (2017) 84%

Star Trek (1966) 80%

Star Trek: Voyager (1995) 76%

Star Trek: Enterprise (2001) 56%

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Ranking All Star Trek TV Shows

11. Star Trek: Discovery

Discovery undermines the original Star Trek series with terrible writing and acting, and by Season 5 we just wanted it to be over. | © CBS Studios

10. Star Trek: The Animated Series

The Animated Series was significantly limited by the animation technologies of its time, but it had the original cast doing the voices and some interesting stories. Solid stuff for fans of animation. | © CBS Studios

9. Star Trek: Lower Decks

Lower Decks has to be the most hilarious entry on the list. And it has a great quartet at the center, with Boimler and Mariner performing particularly well. | © CBS Eye Animation Productions

8. Star Trek: Enterprise

Enterprise isn't as wonderful as previous installments in the series, but it was still able to capture moments of real greatness. It also allowed viewers to see the beginnings of the Federation. | © Paramount Network Television

7. Star Trek: Prodigy

Prodigy is a fun show that brings a new angle to the traditional Star Trek universe. The main cast is a gang of ragtag teenagers, which helps the series to appeal to wider audiences. | © Brothers Hageman Productions

6. Star Trek: Picard

Picard brings the next-gen crew to a traditional setting, with fairly successful results. This will certainly never be remembered as one of the great Star Trek shows, but at the same time, it's hard to imagine anyone really hating it. | © Escapist Fare

5. Star Trek: Voyager

Voyager has some problems with character development (or the lack thereof), but it's still a worthwhile show in other respects. The first season is a bit bumpy, but the series got a lot better with the introduction of the Borg and Seven. | © Paramount Network Television

4. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Deep Space Nine is a hidden gem that pushes the utopian ideals of the 24th Century to their limits and keeps improving the quality in every season. The show masterfully portrays the tension between maintaining ideals and confronting harsh realities. | © Paramount Domestic Television

3. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Strange New Worlds is a welcomed return to the hour-long episodes, with a terrific cast that combines old and new characters. If it keeps up the incredible quality, this could easily move up the list even further. | © H M R X Productions

2. Star Trek

The original Star Trek show has spawned a half-century-long franchise thanks to the incredible trio of Kirk, Spock, and Bones. It's hit-and-miss, but more hits than misses. | © Paramount Television

1. Star Trek: The Next Generation

The Next Generation is the most popular Star Trek show, and there are obvious reasons why it's people's favorite. It brings up the best things from previous installments and doubles them, producing more interesting and consistent episodes. | © Paramount Domestic Television

Here's our ranking of all Star Trek shows, folks! Please do give us your thoughts in the comments!

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In the 23rd Century, Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise explore the galaxy and defend the United Federation of Planets. In the 23rd Century, Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise explore the galaxy and defend the United Federation of Planets. In the 23rd Century, Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise explore the galaxy and defend the United Federation of Planets.

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• Trivia In the hallways of the Enterprise there are tubes marked "GNDN." These initials stand for "goes nowhere does nothing."
• Goofs The deck locations for Kirk's Quarters, Sickbay and Transporter Room vary (usually between decks 4-7) throughout the series.

Dr. McCoy : "He's dead, Jim."

• Crazy credits On some episodes, the closing credits show a still that is actually from the Star Trek blooper reel. It is a close-up of stunt man Bill Blackburn who played an android in Return to Tomorrow (1968) , removing his latex make up. In the reel, He is shown taking it off, while an off-screen voice says "You wanted show business, you got it!"
• Alternate versions In 2006, CBS went back to the archives and created HD prints of every episode of the show. In addition to the new video transfer, they re-did all of the model shots and some matte paintings using CGI effects, and re-recorded the original theme song to clean it up. These "Enhanced" versions of the episodes aired on syndication and have been released on DVD and Blu-Ray.
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What Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Star Nana Visitor Looks Like Today

Strong, capable women are integral to "Star Trek." And in the world of Trek, few women go harder than former Bajoran resistance fighter Major Kira Nerys of "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." Despite Visitor's original misconception that Kira Nerys would be a one-off performance, the straight-talking Bajoran would become one of the franchise's most beloved characters, with sites like Slate and Wired ranking Nerys among their top 10 "Star Trek" crew members.

After "Deep Space Nine" ended, the actor who brought Nerys to life, Nana Visitor, went on to guest star as the sadistic Madame X, aka Elizabeth Renfro, on "Dark Angel," appearing in six episodes of the James Cameron co-created cyberpunk series. Between 2009 and 2014, Visitor voice-acted as a number of "Family Guy" characters. She would later land a role on the Seth MacFarlane Trek-inspired series "The Orville," but much to the disappointment of "Star Trek"-loving "Orville" fans, Visitor's agent didn't tell the actor she had the part until it was too late for her to join the series.

Through the years, Visitor has also guest-starred on a number of other shows, including "Battlestar Galactica," "Torchwood: Miracle Day," "Grimm," and "Castle." She has also appeared in a few films, including her roles as Pamela Voorhees in the 2009 "Friday the 13th" and as an adoption agent in another MacFarlane project, "Ted 2." Visitor would also stop in to reprise her role as Kira Nerys on a 2022 episode of "Star Trek: Lower Decks." Most recently, Visitor has been busy writing "Star Trek: Open a Channel: A Woman's Trek," which the actor called "a book about the women of Star Trek and their cultural effect" (via  X ) scheduled for release in October 2024.

For Visitor, Kira Nerys was a gamechanging female role

In a 1990s landscape where TV and film representations of women too often lacked dimension and complexity, Visitor found Nerys to be a game-changer. Up to that point, Visitor told Bleeding Cool, all of her roles had been written to in some way serve the production's male characters. "I served to make people understand something more about the male character who was the star of every show," Visitor explained. In fact, Nerys was written so differently that the actor originally mistook Kira for a male role, telling herself that someone had made a mistake. When she realized it wasn't, she pumped herself up to get into the Kira Nerys headspace with the help of some Doc Martens and very loud rap music. In a world of flat, static female characters, Visitor found Nerys to be a refreshingly complicated figure.

As the actor told  TrekMovie.com, "[I]t was the first time I was playing someone who wasn't an adjective. She had goals, and agency, and dreams. And it was like being taken out of a straitjacket." Visitor's decision to write her book years later grew out of the awareness that many viewers connect with characters like Nerys and that connection has the power to quite literally change lives.

Visitor sees that need for representation realized in the new slate of "Star Trek" series  that strives for more diverse representation despite the apparent cognitive dissonance of some gatekeeping old-school Trekkies. As Visitor keenly observed in her interview with Bleeding Cool, "People didn't understand there were many more diverse groups, how many women, how many black women were watching the original show and getting huge inspiration from it."

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10 best modern tv shows set in the 1990s.

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10 Best Dark Comedies Of The 1990s

10 1990s comedies barely anyone remembers, 10 best mystery tv series of the 2020s (so far).

• From family shenanigans to R-rated humor, TV shows set in the 1990s blend nostalgia with cultural relevance for both old and new audiences.
• City on a Hill authentically showcases Boston's crime scene of the '90s, while Cruel Summer twists '90s nostalgia with modern storytelling.
• Everything Sucks! delivers a realistic portrayal of '90s high school life, while Clarice dives deep into a '90s crime drama with a female lead.

The sole purpose of rewatching some of the best TV shows of the 1990s is to bring the audience back to the nostalgia of the decade. However, there are some modern series set in the iconic era of grunge fashion, upbeat pop music and changing technology. While these shows are more contemporary, they focus on the social and historical issues that defined the time.

From nostalgic, family-centered shenanigans to R-rated comedies , they offer a combination of humor, drama, and detail that makes the '90s return to life. The format of these shows provides a nice trip down memory lane, while still introducing the decade's culture to a newer generation.

The 1990s produced some of the best dark comedies of all time, with filmmakers injecting bleak humor into a wide range of different genres.

10 City On A Hill (2017)

Recreating boston in the '90s, city on a hill.

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City on a Hill is a crime drama series set in 1990s Boston, exploring the city's corrupt legal system and the unexpected alliance between Assistant District Attorney Decourcy Ward (Aldis Hodge) and a potentially compromised FBI veteran, Jackie Rohr (Kevin Bacon). They work together to take on a family of armored car robbers, leading to a broader inquiry into Boston's pervasive criminal justice issues.

Boston's crime scene in the 1990s is explored vividly in City on a Hill . With its top-notch writing, directing, acting, and post-production, it quickly became one of the best Boston crime dramas . It thoroughly managed to attract viewers with its broader themes of corruption and crime.

The show was very firm at aiming to create an authentic '90s feel, so much so that they involved Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, who grew up in Boston at that time, to consult about its depiction of the city. The chemistry between the main characters was very unique, with both of them coming from completely opposite backgrounds, but brought together to tackle Boston's police problems in the '90s. More so, it made its viewers understand what goes on behind criminal acts and react on a case-to-case basis. City on a Hill became a staple in the "Boston Crime" subgenre, making it a must-watch for fans of police dramas.

9 Cruel Summer (2021)

Filled with '90s teen angst, cruel summer.

Cruel Summer is set in Texas, where Kate Wallis, a popular teen in high school, is kidnapped. The series takes place over the summer of 1993, 1994, and 1995, showing Jeanette Turner becoming the new popular girl in her town to one of the most hated women in America. Cruel Summer stars Chiara Aurelia as Jeanette and Olivia Holt as Kate. 

From beginning to end, Cruel Summer kept its fans on the edge of their seats. With it being based in a small Texas town in 1993, it directly referenced major societal issues of the time . However, it is worth noting that the show spans three years ('93-'95), in which the producers were set on creating an immersive but evolving landscape. The show depicted the stumbling blocks of adolescence and tackled sensitive topics like grooming - which used to happen in different ways compared to nowadays.

Cruel Summer had constant twists, but it stayed consistent at recreating everything to imitate the look and feel of 1993. The interior design, the music, and fashion helped set the tone of the era, adding a nostalgic touch. With its unpredictable plot, it hooked viewers of all ages, not just teens. There are some unrealistic uses of technology that do detract from the authenticity, but despite these flaws, it is still a bingeworthy experience.

8 Everything Sucks! (2018)

Navigating high school life in the '90s, everything sucks (2018).

Everything Sucks! is a coming-of-age comedy-drama series set in the 1990s, focusing on a group of high school students in Boring, Oregon. The story follows members of the A/V club and drama club as they navigate the challenges of teenage life, including friendships, relationships, and self-discovery. The series features performances by Jahi Di'Allo Winston and Peyton Kennedy.

Everything Sucks! likes to constantly remind the audience of its setting in the '90s with its cultural references and dialogues. Its constant focus on face-to-face interactions contrasts with today's digital ones, providing a sense of deep sentimentality to those who grew up in the era. The show makes it very easy to fall in love with the characters and their journeys, as they do provide a solid, realistic feel of teenage life in the '90s.

The series captures the essence of growing up in that era and the trials of high school, awkwardness, relationships, and self-discovery. Many of its episodes faced more significant and common problems in the '90s, like single-parent households and social hierarchies. The actors made the characters their own and made their stories feel genuine at all times. Sadly, its cancelation left many fans longing for more.

7 Clarice (2021)

A modern take on crime drama.

Clarice is a psychological horror/thriller series loosely adapted from the Red Dragon novel series that tells the story of FBI Agent Clarice Starling as she returns to the field after the events of The Silence of the Lambs. Brilliant and vulnerable, Clarice's bravery gives her an inner light that draws monsters and madmen to her. However, her complex psychological profile that stems from her difficult childhood makes her capable of seeing angles of crimes others cannot comprehend. 

Based on 1991's The Silence of the Lambs, Clarice does a remarkable job at capturing the psychological thriller atmosphere that was so popular in '90s cinema . The show managed to stand on its own by focusing on a female protagonist, as opposed to how male-dominated the police field actually was in the decade. Its exploration of darker themes made good reference to many genres of that time.

With its suspenseful storytelling, Clarice was able to provide a fresh perspective on the process of catching serial killers. The show was able to show a deep look at the political and social landscape of the time , setting the stage for a series of events that got better with each passing episode. Ultimately, the show's commitment to navigate through the hardships of a career and personal life was what made it relatable and beloved by fans.

The 1990s were packed with incredible comedy movies, although some truly under appreciated gems have been mostly forgotten by modern audiences.

6 Yellowjackets (2021)

'90s trauma with a modern twist, yellowjackets.

Yellowjackets is a thriller and drama television series created by Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson. The series stars Melanie Lynskey, Tawny Cypress, and Ella Purnell. The plot sees a high-school Soccer team from New Jersey returning home from a National Tournament in Seattle. As they make their way back by plane, there is an unfortunate crash that sees them stranded in the Canadian wilderness.

Yellowjackets became very notable from the start after receiving excellent reviews from both critics and audiences alike. Often compared to other shows that were actually released in the '90s, like The X-Flies and Twin Peaks, it shared a similar feel while introducing fresh segments. As a dramatic thriller, it kept viewers guessing and eager for more.

Yellowjackets drew inspiration from various pieces of media, from The Shining , to the Uruguayan Rugby Team's 1972 plane accident.

Yellowjacket's episodes exceeded everybody's expectations with its many twists and turns, making it addicting for anyone watching. The blend of drama, mystery, comedy, and even action makes the episodes feel like a rollercoaster of emotions . The story focusing on a group of girls stranded in the wilderness helps add a coming-of-age feel to its scenes, making even the slowest episodes maintain their quality.

5 That '90s Show

A sequel that honors the original, that '90s show (2023).

That '70s Show returns set two decades later with That '90s Show, acting as a sequel but bringing back old cast favorites. Led by Red (Kurtwood Smith) and Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp) Forman, the new cast arrives as the next generation, with the daughter of Eric and Donna, Leia Forman, leading the charge. Spending the summer with her grandparents, Leia makes new friends and forges new bonds in Point Place, Wisconsin. That '70s Show series regulars make cameos in the show to maintain that sense of familiarity, and the show adopts the conventions of the '90s as expected. That '90s Show first aired on Netflix with a total of ten episodes. 

Trying to capture the specific essence of 1995, That '90s Show was released as a sequel to That '70s Show . The new show is full of funny lines, and the return of many characters from That '70s Show brought back the classic humor that audiences loved from the original. At times, it can feel more like a modern teen flick rather than a sitcom, but that's what makes it garner fans of its own.

Compared to other entries, That '90s Show felt like it was trying to appeal to a younger, Gen-Z audience, while also attempting to gain back its old viewers by being nostalgic. To some, the writing often felt unrealistic with the situations it put its characters in, but others argue that that's part of the excitement of it being set in the 1990s. The show has a lot of potential, so the third part of season 2 can still give it a better chance at adding some depth.

4 Pose (2018)

Showcasing the ballroom culture of the '80s & '90s.

Pose is an FX drama series that explores the deeper parts of ballroom culture in New York City at the end of the '80s through the '90s with an additional focus on the various problems affecting various communities that find families within each other as they build their own unique subcultures.

When starting Pose, audiences were given a more detailed inside view of the different problems many communities had in the 1980s and 1990s. Being one of the best shows to stream on Paramount+ , it features a dedicated cast of characters that tell how the world used to look for marginalized people. Pose excelled at showing the importance of family , either biological or chosen, and was not afraid to put the spotlight on how individuals can create their own support systems when traditional ones fail.

The hardships of many during the AIDS crisis are also a focus for many of its most impactful moments. While there are some areas where the show could've been more polished, Pose is a beautifully-crafted series that reflects the dedication of all the people involved in its production. Pose managed to address the tensions of society of the '90s in an extremely realistic way, while also having the visual cinematic upgrades of later decades.

3 Young Sheldon (2017)

A '90s childhood through a genius's eyes, young sheldon.

A spinoff of the sitcom The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon follows the youth and coming-of-age of Sheldon Cooper during his childhood in Texas as he pursues science and academia. The show also follows his parents, siblings, and Mee-Maw, painting a picture of the world where Sheldon grew up.

Television critics and fans of The Big Bang Theory were skeptical upon the announcement of Young Sheldon , a spin-off focusing on the childhood of Sheldon Cooper. Set in the early 1990s, Young Sheldon gave viewers a rare sight of clean family entertainment while also describing the difficulties of the time. The show did not shy away from including topics like marital strain, seeking independence, and financial struggles - all encapsulating the realities that people had to live in the '90s.

Being a successor to one of the best sitcoms of all time is hard, but many fans feel like it has the potential to surpass it. Certain improvements, like ditching the laugh tracks, made the show even more funny. The casting for this show was perfect, with Sheldon and Missy tackling some interesting family dynamics. Each week, viewers anticipated clever dialogue and steady character development.

2 Derry Girls (2018)

The troubles of teen life in northern ireland during the 1990s, derry girls.

Derry Girls centers on Erin Quinn, a 16-year-old girl living in Northern Ireland in the '90s. Derry Girls tells the story of her life and the complicated exploits of her family Saoirse-Monica Jackson stars as Erin in this comedy series that lasted for a total of three seasons between 2018 and 2022.

Using the Irish city of Derry as its main setting, Derry Girls has always been notable for its political and religious commentary. Brilliantly written, with a ton of funny, rapid-fire jokes, the show centers on the adventures of a group of four Irish girls and one English boy. Though Derry Girls is a fictional series, it was able to weave real-life occurrences of the 1990s, providing a different type of setting for the characters to develop in.

References to historical events like the Clintons visiting Ireland and the Northern Ireland peace processes are relevant to the episodes' plots. To achieve a better sense of authenticity, the show's producers went the extra mile and incorporated real footage of shows and news from the era into the background. Where Derry Girls really shines, however, is in its interesting selection of characters. Each has a very distinct personality, but together they felt relatable and serve as a good representation of teens from the decade.

1 Fresh Off The Boat (2015)

An immigrant experience in '90s america, fresh off the boat.

Inspired by the autobiography of chef Eddie Huang, Fresh off the Boat stars Hudson Yang as Eddie, the oldest son of the Huang family, who moves with his parents and younger brothers to Orlando Florida in the mid-1990s to open a restaurant. The series chronicles the family's lives and business ventures in the intervening years. Randall Park and Constance Wu also star. 

Fresh Off the Boat is a show that takes full advantage of its 1990s setting. Based on Taiwanese-American experiences, the show has a bold approach to discussing race and stereotypes of the period. The characters are so relatable and likable, that they are able to balance comedy and cultural insights in a way that is enjoyable for everybody, whether they are Asian or not.

Set in the 1990s, the show followed an immigrant family adjusting to their new lives in Orlando. With its plots involving common problems of the era like discrimination and trying to achieve the American Dream, Fresh Off the Boat focuses on different challenges for the family. The premise had the potential to develop into something edgy, but it instead evolved into a well-crafted narrative. The series is also extremely meticulous when adding references to music, TV, and slang from the '90s, making it feel genuine.

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