12 Lesser-Known Sci-Fi Shows That Are Totally Worth Watching

Sci-fi often dazzles with sprawling epics or flashy blockbusters, but some of the genre’s best stories thrive in obscurity. These under-the-radar shows deliver bold concepts, rich characters, and worlds that spark wonder without the fanfare of mainstream hits.

From quirky space romps to chilling mysteries, these series offer fresh, gripping takes on sci-fi that deserve more love. Below, I list my top 12 lesser-known sci-fi shows, each a hidden gem ready to hook you.

12. ‘The Middleman’ (2008)

Wendy, a young artist, joins a secret agency to battle comic book-style villains, guided by her earnest boss. This quirky, single-season show mixes sci-fi with playful humor.

Natalie Morales and Matt Keeslar shine with sharp banter and charm. Its retro vibe and wild alien encounters make it a fun, overlooked treasure.

11. ‘Now and Again’ (1999-2000)

A man killed in an accident is revived in a lab-grown body for secret missions, all while yearning for his old family life. It blends action with heartfelt drama.

Eric Close and Dennis Haysbert deliver grounded performances in this unique concept. Canceled after one season, it left a bold sci-fi idea unexplored.

10. ‘Journeyman’ (2007)

A journalist starts time-traveling without warning, fixing strangers’ lives while struggling to keep his own intact. This heartfelt drama explores fate and sacrifice.

Kevin McKidd leads with quiet strength, supported by Gretchen Egolf. Its single season was packed with emotion, deserving more time to grow.

9. ‘Lexx’ (1997-2002)

A misfit crew pilots a living spaceship through a chaotic universe, stumbling into bizarre planets and dark adventures. Its low-budget weirdness is pure cult charm.

Brian Downey and Eva Habermann anchor this Canadian-German oddity. Its four seasons of surreal sci-fi make it a must for fans of the unconventional.

8. ‘Misfits’ (2009-2013)

A group of young delinquents gain strange powers after a freak storm, leading to chaotic, irreverent adventures. This British sci-fi blends dark humor with heart.

Nathan Stewart-Jarrett and Iwan Rheon shine in a rotating cast. Its five seasons flew under the radar, offering a gritty twist on superpowers.

7. ‘The Lazarus Project’ (2022-2023)

A man discovers he’s part of a secret group that resets time to prevent global catastrophes, but personal loss tests his loyalty. This tense thriller keeps you guessing.

Paapa Essiedu leads with raw intensity, backed by Anjli Mohindra. Its two seasons are a gripping, underseen take on time loops and moral dilemmas.

6. ‘Eureka’ (2006-2012)

A U.S. marshal stumbles into a secret town of genius inventors, where wild experiments spark chaos and comedy. This lighthearted sci-fi blends quirky charm with heart.

Colin Ferguson and Salli Richardson-Whitfield lead a lovable cast. Its five seasons were a quiet hit, but it never got the buzz it deserved.

5. ‘Sliders’ (1995-2000)

A group of travelers “slides” between parallel universes, facing alternate Earths with twisted histories. This inventive premise mixes adventure with clever what-ifs.

Jerry O’Connell and Cleavant Derricks anchor the shifting cast. Its five seasons were a cult favorite, but mainstream fame eluded it.

4. ‘Odyssey 5’ (2002)

Astronauts witness Earth’s destruction and are sent back five years to stop it, uncovering a sci-fi conspiracy. This gritty drama balances action with emotional stakes.

Peter Weller leads with rugged intensity in this single-season gem. Its abrupt end left fans craving more of its bold, apocalyptic mystery.

3. ‘Continuum’ (2012-2015)

A future cop, stranded in present-day Vancouver, hunts time-traveling terrorists to protect the timeline. This Canadian series blends sleek action with ethical questions.

Rachel Nichols shines as the driven lead, with Victor Webster as her ally. Its four seasons were smart and thrilling, yet it remained a niche hit.

2. ‘Farscape’ (1999-2003)

An astronaut, lost on a living ship with alien outcasts, navigates a vibrant, chaotic galaxy. This Australian-American series mixes wild visuals with deep bonds.

Ben Browder and Claudia Black deliver electric chemistry, with Henson creature designs. Its four seasons built a cult following, but it deserved wider love.

1. ‘Firefly’ (2002)

A scrappy spaceship crew takes odd jobs in a frontier galaxy, blending Western grit with sci-fi heart. Its rich world and lovable rogues make it a timeless tragedy.

Nathan Fillion and Gina Torres lead Joss Whedon’s masterpiece. Canceled after one season, its enduring fanbase proves it was robbed of greatness.

Which sci-fi gem do you wish more people knew about, or is there a show I missed? Share your picks in the comments!