10 Shows & Movies Like The Orville (2017)

Description: Similar to The Orville (2017) in its episodic storytelling, exploration of moral dilemmas, and a mix of serious and humorous tones. Both shows feature a diverse crew on a starship exploring the galaxy, dealing with both external threats and internal conflicts.

Fact: Patrick Stewart was initially reluctant to take the role of Captain Picard, thinking the show would not last more than one season. The show introduced the concept of the 'Holodeck,' which became a staple in later Star Trek series. The character of Data was inspired by Spock from the original Star Trek series.

Description: Like The Orville, Deep Space Nine blends science fiction with deep character development and explores complex social and political issues. Both shows have a balance of humor and drama, and feature a diverse cast of characters with unique backgrounds.

Fact: Deep Space Nine was the first Star Trek series to feature a stationary setting (a space station) rather than a traveling starship. The show introduced the first African American captain in Star Trek history, Benjamin Sisko. The Dominion War arc was one of the most ambitious storylines in Star Trek, spanning multiple seasons.

Description: Voyager shares with The Orville a focus on a crew stranded far from home, navigating unknown territories. Both shows emphasize teamwork, resilience, and the human (or alien) spirit in the face of adversity, with a mix of light-hearted and serious moments.

Fact: Kate Mulgrew was not the first choice for Captain Janeway; the role was initially offered to Geneviève Bujold, who left after two days of filming. Voyager was the first Star Trek series to feature a female captain as the lead. The show introduced the Borg Queen, one of the most iconic villains in Star Trek history.

Description: Stargate SG-1, like The Orville, blends science fiction with adventure and humor. Both shows feature a team exploring new worlds and encountering diverse cultures, with a mix of standalone episodes and overarching storylines.

Fact: Stargate SG-1 is based on the 1994 film Stargate, directed by Roland Emmerich. The show holds the record for the longest-running North American science fiction series, with 10 seasons. Richard Dean Anderson, who played Colonel O'Neill, was known for his role in MacGyver before joining Stargate.

Description: Enterprise, like The Orville, explores the early days of space exploration with a mix of optimism and realism. Both shows feature a crew that is less experienced but full of enthusiasm, and they often tackle ethical and philosophical questions.

Fact: Enterprise was originally titled 'Star Trek: Enterprise' but was later renamed to distance itself from the Star Trek brand. The show's theme song, 'Faith of the Heart,' was controversial among fans for being a departure from the traditional orchestral themes. Scott Bakula, who played Captain Archer, was known for his role in Quantum Leap before joining Star Trek.

Description: Firefly, like The Orville, combines sci-fi with a western aesthetic and a strong emphasis on character relationships. Both shows feature a ragtag crew with a mix of humor and heart, navigating a universe that feels lived-in and real.

Fact: Firefly was canceled after only one season but gained a cult following and spawned a movie, Serenity. The show was created by Joss Whedon, known for Buffy the Vampire Slayer and The Avengers. The Chinese language and culture are heavily integrated into the show's universe.

Description: Battlestar Galactica shares with The Orville a focus on a fleet of ships navigating through space, dealing with both external threats and internal politics. Both shows explore themes of survival, leadership, and what it means to be human.

Fact: The show was a reimagining of the 1978 series of the same name. Battlestar Galactica was praised for its realistic portrayal of military life and its complex characters. The phrase 'So say we all' became a cultural catchphrase thanks to the show.

Description: Strange New Worlds, like The Orville, embraces a more episodic format with a focus on exploration and adventure. Both shows feature a charismatic captain and a crew that feels like a family, with a blend of humor and serious storytelling.

Fact: Strange New Worlds is a direct spin-off from Star Trek: Discovery, focusing on Captain Pike and the USS Enterprise. The show brings back classic Star Trek elements like the 'planet of the week' format. Anson Mount's portrayal of Captain Pike has been widely praised by fans and critics alike.

Description: Discovery shares with The Orville a modern take on the space exploration genre, with high production values and a focus on character-driven stories. Both shows balance action with thoughtful exploration of social issues and feature diverse casts.

Fact: Discovery was the first Star Trek series to feature a gay couple in a main role. The show's protagonist, Michael Burnham, is the first human raised by Vulcans to be a central character in Star Trek. Discovery's spore drive technology is one of the most unique propulsion systems in Star Trek history.

Description: Picard, like The Orville, delves into the personal journeys of its characters while maintaining a strong sci-fi backdrop. Both shows explore themes of legacy, redemption, and the impact of past decisions on the present.

Fact: Picard marks Patrick Stewart's return to the role after nearly 20 years. The show features several characters from Star Trek: The Next Generation, including Data and Seven of Nine. The first season explores the aftermath of the Romulan supernova, a event first mentioned in the 2009 Star Trek film.