15 Best Alternate History TV Shows

What if history took a different turn? Alternate history TV shows dive into this question, reimagining the past with twists that spark curiosity and excitement. These series blend real events with bold changes, creating worlds where outcomes we know shift dramatically.

From dystopian nightmares to thrilling reimaginings of space races or wars, these shows keep viewers hooked with creative storytelling. I’ve rounded up 15 of the best alternate history TV series that bring fresh spins on the past, perfect for anyone who loves a good ‘what if’ story.

15. ‘Motherland: Fort Salem’ (2020-2022)

This show flips the Salem Witch Trials, imagining a world where witches are not only real but become a powerful military force in an alternate America. Young women train as magical soldiers, fighting for a nation that struck a deal with witches centuries ago to avoid persecution.

The mix of fantasy and alternate history creates a unique vibe, with strong female leads like Raelle Collar driving the story. It’s a bold take on empowerment, though some find the pacing uneven, it’s a fun watch for fans of magic and history.

14. ‘Hollywood’ (2020)

Set in a reimagined 1940s Hollywood, this miniseries explores a world where the film industry dismantles racism and homophobia earlier than in reality. Newcomers like Darren Criss and Jeremy Pope shine alongside veterans like Patti LuPone, playing fictional and real figures.

The show’s optimistic rewrite of Tinseltown’s past is heartfelt, though it can feel idealized. It’s a short, vibrant ride for those who love stories about breaking barriers in a glamorous setting.

13. ‘1983’ (2018)

This Polish series envisions a world where a 1983 bombing keeps the Cold War alive, locking Poland behind the Iron Curtain into 2003. A law student and a cop uncover a conspiracy that could spark a revolution.

With its gritty atmosphere and slow-burn intrigue, ‘1983’ offers a tense look at a world stuck in political limbo. It’s a hidden gem for fans of espionage and alternate history, though a second season never materialized.

12. ‘SS-GB’ (2017)

In this chilling series, Nazi Germany wins World War II and occupies Britain in 1941. Detective Douglas Archer navigates a tense world under German rule, balancing personal loyalty and resistance.

Based on Len Deighton’s novel, the show’s dark tone and strong performances, like Sam Riley’s, make it gripping. It’s a short but intense dive into a world where history’s darkest fears come true.

11. ‘Noughts + Crosses’ (2020-2021)

This British series imagines a world where African nations colonized Europe, reversing racial power dynamics. Black ‘Crosses’ rule over white ‘Noughts,’ creating a tense backdrop for a forbidden love story.

The show’s bold premise tackles racism head-on, with strong performances from Masali Baduza and Jack Rowan. It’s a thought-provoking watch, though some feel it leans heavily on its message.

10. ‘Kingdom’ (2019-2021)

Set in Korea’s Joseon period during the late 16th century, this series blends alternate history with horror. A zombie plague ravages the kingdom as Crown Prince Lee Chang fights political enemies and the undead.

The mix of historical drama and terrifying zombies makes ‘Kingdom’ stand out. Its stunning visuals and tight storytelling keep you glued, perfect for fans of intense, genre-blending history.

9. ‘The Plot Against America’ (2020)

This HBO miniseries, based on Philip Roth’s novel, imagines Charles Lindbergh winning the 1940 U.S. presidential election, leading to a fascist, anti-Semitic America. The story unfolds through a Jewish family’s eyes.

With stars like Winona Ryder and John Turturro, the show delivers a haunting look at a divided nation. Its relevance to modern politics makes it a must-watch, though it’s emotionally heavy.

8. ‘Crossbones’ (2014)

This pirate drama reimagines Blackbeard surviving his 1718 death, ruling a secret island in the Bahamas. John Malkovich’s charismatic performance as the infamous pirate clashes with a British agent sent to stop him.

The show’s mix of swashbuckling action and political intrigue is fun, though it struggled with consistency. It’s a short, thrilling ride for those who love pirate lore with a historical twist.

7. ‘Hunters’ (2020-2023)

Set in 1977 New York, ‘Hunters’ follows a team led by Al Pacino’s Meyer Offerman as they track Nazis hiding in America, plotting a Fourth Reich. The diverse cast brings action and dark humor to the table.

The show’s bold mix of conspiracy and history keeps it engaging, though pacing can falter. Pacino’s rare TV role makes it a standout for fans of intense, alternate history thrills.

6. ‘11.22.63’ (2016)

This Hulu miniseries, based on Stephen King’s novel, follows a teacher, played by James Franco, who time-travels to stop John F. Kennedy’s 1963 assassination. His journey blends romance, suspense, and historical drama.

The show’s period details and emotional stakes make it a gripping ride. It’s a must for fans of time-travel twists and King’s storytelling, though it’s a one-season commitment.

5. ‘Watchmen’ (2019)

Expanding on the iconic graphic novel, this HBO series is set in an alternate America where Vietnam is a U.S. state and masked vigilantes are outlawed. Regina King leads as a detective uncovering a vast conspiracy.

The show’s bold take on race, power, and history is visually stunning and thought-provoking. It’s a standout for superhero fans and those who love complex alternate realities.

4. ‘My Lady Jane’ (2024)

This fantasy-romance series reimagines 16th-century England, where Lady Jane Grey avoids her historical execution and navigates a magical world of shape-shifters. Emily Bader shines as the sharp-witted Jane.

With humor and heart, the show offers a lighthearted twist on history. It’s a delightful escape for fans of quirky, romantic takes on the past, though it’s loosely tied to real events.

3. ‘Shōgun’ (2024-present)

FX’s epic series blends historical figures like John Blackthorne with fictional drama in 1600 Japan. A shipwrecked English sailor gets caught in a power struggle among Japanese lords, led by Hiroyuki Sanada.

The show’s rich storytelling and stunning visuals make it a masterpiece. Its cultural depth and intense drama make it a top pick for fans of historical reimaginings.

2. ‘For All Mankind’ (2019-present)

This Apple TV+ series imagines the Soviet Union beating the U.S. to the moon in 1969, leading to a never-ending space race. Joel Kinnaman and Sarah Jones lead a diverse cast across decades of innovation.

The show’s mix of sci-fi and drama, with strong focus on women and minorities, is thrilling. Its ongoing success and visual effects make it a must-watch for space enthusiasts.

1. ‘The Man in the High Castle’ (2015-2019)

Based on Philip K. Dick’s novel, this Amazon series envisions a 1960s America where the Axis powers won World War II, splitting control between Nazi Germany and Japan. Alexa Davalos and Rufus Sewell lead a tale of resistance and mystery.

The show’s chilling world and complex characters make it a gripping exploration of a dark ‘what if.’ It’s a fan favorite for its bold premise and emotional depth.

Which alternate history show sparks your imagination, or did I miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!