20 TV Shows Set in the Future That Shine

Television has a knack for pulling us into worlds yet to come, where technology, society, and human nature twist in fascinating ways. Shows set in the future let us dream, question, and sometimes fear what lies ahead, all while telling gripping stories.

I’ve rounded up 20 series that dive into futuristic settings, from sprawling space epics to chilling dystopias. Each offers a unique vision of tomorrow, packed with bold ideas and unforgettable characters.

20. ‘The Orville’ (2017-2022)

‘The Orville’ follows the crew of a mid-level spaceship in the 25th century, blending sci-fi adventure with Seth MacFarlane’s humor. It’s a love letter to ‘Star Trek’ with a comedic edge.

The show tackles social issues through its planetary missions, but its light tone kept it from mainstream fame. Its three seasons are a fun, thoughtful ride for sci-fi fans.

19. ‘For All Mankind’ (2019-present)

This alternate history drama imagines a world where the Soviet Union lands on the Moon first, sparking an endless space race. It follows astronauts, engineers, and their families across decades.

With rich character arcs and stunning visuals, it’s a grounded take on space exploration. Its niche appeal means it’s often underappreciated, but it’s a gem on Apple TV+.

18. ‘Dark’ (2017-2020)

‘Dark’ is a German time-travel thriller set in a small town, weaving a complex web of interconnected lives across multiple timelines. Its future segments depict a post-apocalyptic world.

The show’s intricate plot and emotional depth make it a standout. It demands focus but rewards with a mind-bending story across three seasons.

17. ‘Years and Years’ (2019)

This British miniseries tracks a family from 2019 to 2034, showing a near-future UK grappling with political unrest, tech advancements, and global crises. Emma Thompson steals scenes as a populist leader.

Its chillingly plausible vision of tomorrow hits hard in one season. It’s a bold, overlooked drama that feels eerily prescient.

16. ‘Lost in Space’ (2018-2021)

A reboot of the 1965 classic, ‘Lost in Space’ follows the Robinson family, stranded on an alien planet in 2046 after a space mission goes awry. It’s a mix of survival drama and sci-fi.

With strong visuals and family dynamics, it’s a modern adventure. Its three seasons didn’t grab huge buzz but deliver solid storytelling.

15. ‘The 100’ (2014-2020)

Set 97 years after a nuclear apocalypse, ‘The 100’ follows young survivors sent from a space station to test Earth’s habitability. It evolves into a gritty saga of survival and power.

The show’s bold choices and moral dilemmas keep it engaging over seven seasons. It’s a cult favorite that deserves more mainstream love.

14. ‘Counterpart’ (2017-2019)

‘Counterpart’ explores a Cold War-style conflict between parallel universes, one slightly ahead technologically. J.K. Simmons plays dual roles as a spy and his alternate self.

Its smart writing and espionage thrills make it a hidden gem. Canceled after two seasons, it’s a must for fans of cerebral sci-fi.

13. ‘Fringe’ (2008-2013)

‘Fringe’ blends sci-fi and mystery as FBI agents investigate bizarre phenomena, including glimpses of a dystopian future. Anna Torv and John Noble lead a stellar cast.

The show’s mix of standalone cases and overarching mythology is gripping. Its five seasons are a wild ride for fans of speculative fiction.

12. ‘12 Monkeys’ (2015-2018)

Inspired by the 1995 film, ‘12 Monkeys’ follows a time traveler from a plague-ravaged future trying to stop a global catastrophe. It’s a twisty sci-fi thriller.

With tight plotting and strong performances, it spans four seasons. It’s an underseen gem that elevates its source material.

11. ‘The Peripheral’ (2022)

Set in 2032 and a far-future London, ‘The Peripheral’ follows a woman linked to a virtual reality game that’s more real than it seems. Chloë Grace Moretz stars in this cyberpunk tale.

Its ambitious world-building and visuals impress, though it ended after one season. It’s a bold, immersive dive into tech’s dark side.

10. ‘Silo’ (2023-present)

‘Silo’ is set in a future where humanity lives in an underground bunker, believing the surface is toxic. Rebecca Ferguson leads as a sheriff uncovering dark secrets.

The show’s tense atmosphere and mystery drive its two seasons so far. It’s a slow-burn hit that’s gaining traction on Apple TV+.

9. ‘Humans’ (2015-2018)

‘Humans’ explores a near-future where synthetic robots, or Synths, are household staples, sparking ethical debates. Gemma Chan shines in a story of AI and humanity.

Its three seasons blend drama and social commentary. Despite critical praise, it flew under the radar but remains a thought-provoking watch.

8. ‘Black Mirror’ (2011-present)

This anthology series delivers standalone tales of tech-driven futures, from utopian to dystopian. Each episode, like ‘The Entire History of You’, explores human nature under pressure.

With sharp writing and varied tones, it’s a cultural touchstone across six seasons. Its bold ideas make it essential viewing.

7. ‘Altered Carbon’ (2018-2020)

Set in a future where consciousness can be swapped between bodies, ‘Altered Carbon’ follows a detective solving a murder in a cyberpunk world. It’s visually stunning and gritty.

The show’s two seasons dive into identity and morality. Though canceled too soon, it’s a thrilling ride for sci-fi fans.

6. ‘Severance’ (2022-present)

‘Severance’ depicts a future where workers split their work and personal memories via a procedure. Adam Scott leads a cast unraveling corporate secrets.

Its eerie vibe and deep themes hook viewers across two seasons so far. It’s a fresh, unsettling take on work-life balance.

5. ‘Westworld’ (2016-2022)

‘Westworld’ is set in a futuristic theme park where AI hosts cater to human desires, until they start questioning their reality. Evan Rachel Wood and Thandiwe Newton star.

The show’s first two seasons are masterpieces of philosophy and suspense. Despite a divisive end, its four seasons are bold and ambitious.

4. ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (2017-2025)

Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel, this dystopian drama depicts a totalitarian future where women are subjugated. Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerhouse performance.

Its six seasons blend harrowing drama with resistance themes. It’s a chilling, relevant warning of societal regression.

3. ‘Futurama’ (1999-2013, 2023-present)

This animated comedy follows Fry, a pizza delivery guy frozen until 2999, working for an intergalactic delivery service. It’s packed with humor and heart.

Across eight seasons, it balances satire with emotional moments. Its enduring charm makes it a sci-fi comedy classic.

2. ‘Firefly’ (2002)

‘Firefly’ is a space western set in 2517, following the Serenity crew’s adventures in a lawless galaxy. Nathan Fillion leads a tight ensemble.

Canceled after one season, its rich world and loyal fanbase keep it alive. It’s a timeless mix of grit and wit.

1. ‘The Expanse’ (2015-2022)

Set in a colonized Solar System, ‘The Expanse’ tracks a crew caught in a web of political intrigue and cosmic threats. Its realistic science and diverse cast shine.

Over six seasons, it builds a sprawling, grounded universe. It’s a sci-fi epic that sets the bar for storytelling.

Which futuristic show is your favorite, or did I miss a must-watch vision of tomorrow? Share your picks in the comments!