10 Shows and Movies Like Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987)

Description: As part of the Star Trek franchise, 'Deep Space Nine' shares the same universe and many thematic elements with 'The Next Generation,' including exploration, diplomacy, and moral dilemmas. However, it distinguishes itself with a more serialized storytelling approach and a focus on a stationary space station rather than a starship, exploring deeper character development and complex political narratives.

Fact: 'Deep Space Nine' was the first Star Trek series to feature a long-term story arc, spanning all seven seasons. The show introduced the first African American commander (later captain) in Star Trek history, Benjamin Sisko. It is known for its darker tone compared to other Star Trek series, dealing with themes like war, religion, and terrorism.

Description: 'Voyager' continues the Star Trek tradition of space exploration and ethical storytelling, much like 'The Next Generation.' It follows the crew of the USS Voyager as they try to return home from the distant Delta Quadrant. The series emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge, core values shared with 'TNG.'

Fact: 'Voyager' was the first Star Trek series to feature a female captain, Kathryn Janeway, as the lead. The show introduced the character Seven of Nine, a former Borg drone, who became a fan favorite. It was the first Star Trek series to be produced after the death of Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek.

Description: 'Stargate SG-1' shares with 'The Next Generation' a focus on exploration, teamwork, and encountering diverse alien cultures. While it has a more military and Earth-centric perspective, it similarly explores ethical and philosophical questions through its sci-fi lens.

Fact: 'Stargate SG-1' is based on the 1994 film 'Stargate' and is one of the longest-running North American sci-fi TV series. The show's success led to two spin-offs: 'Stargate Atlantis' and 'Stargate Universe.' Richard Dean Anderson, who plays Jack O'Neill, was already famous for his role in 'MacGyver.'

Description: 'Farscape' is similar to 'The Next Generation' in its imaginative alien cultures and deep character development. However, it has a more chaotic and irreverent tone, following a human astronaut stranded in a distant part of the universe. Both shows explore themes of identity, belonging, and the unknown.

Fact: 'Farscape' was a collaboration between the Jim Henson Company and an Australian network, featuring advanced puppetry for its alien characters. The show was canceled after four seasons but concluded with a miniseries, 'The Peacekeeper Wars,' due to fan demand. It is known for its unique 'living ship,' Moya, which is a biomechanical organism.

Description: Created by Gene Roddenberry's estate, 'Andromeda' shares 'The Next Generation's' optimistic view of the future and focus on rebuilding a fallen interstellar government. It features a starship crew dedicated to restoring peace and order, similar to the Federation's mission in 'TNG.'

Fact: 'Andromeda' was based on unused concepts by Gene Roddenberry, originally intended for a post-'Star Trek' project. The show stars Kevin Sorbo, famous for his role in 'Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.' It was one of the first sci-fi series to be syndicated after the decline of syndicated TV in the late 1990s.

Description: A prequel to the original Star Trek series, 'Enterprise' explores the early days of space exploration by humans, focusing on the first Warp 5-capable starship. Like 'The Next Generation,' it deals with themes of discovery, first contact, and interstellar diplomacy, but with a more primitive and less polished Federation.

Fact: 'Enterprise' was originally titled 'Star Trek: Enterprise' but dropped the 'Star Trek' prefix in its third season. The show's theme song, 'Faith of the Heart,' was a departure from the traditional instrumental themes of previous Star Trek series. It was the first Star Trek series to be canceled before completing seven seasons, ending after four.

Description: While 'Firefly' has a more Western and gritty aesthetic compared to 'The Next Generation,' both shows emphasize crew camaraderie and moral dilemmas in a sci-fi setting. 'Firefly' explores themes of freedom and resistance against oppressive forces, much like the Federation's ideals in 'TNG.'

Fact: 'Firefly' was created by Joss Whedon, known for 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'The Avengers.' The show was canceled after only one season but gained a cult following, leading to the 2005 film 'Serenity.' It blends elements of science fiction and Western genres, creating a unique 'space Western' vibe.

Description: While 'Battlestar Galactica' is more militaristic and darker than 'The Next Generation,' it shares themes of survival, leadership, and the ethical dilemmas of advanced technology. Both shows explore what it means to be human, with 'Battlestar' focusing on the conflict between humans and Cylons, their robotic creations.

Fact: The 2004 series is a reimagining of the 1978 'Battlestar Galactica.' The show was praised for its complex characters and political allegories, particularly relating to post-9/11 America. It features one of the first openly gay characters in a sci-fi TV series, Felix Gaeta.

Description: 'Killjoys' is a more action-oriented and less philosophical series compared to 'The Next Generation,' but it shares the theme of a close-knit crew navigating a complex interstellar society. Both shows feature strong character dynamics and a mix of episodic and serialized storytelling.

Fact: 'Killjoys' is set in a star system called the Quad, which is governed by a feudal corporate society. The show was created by Michelle Lovretta, who also created 'Lost Girl.' It was praised for its strong female leads and diverse cast.

Description: Created by Seth MacFarlane, 'The Orville' is a loving homage to 'Star Trek,' particularly 'The Next Generation.' It combines space exploration and moral dilemmas with humor, maintaining a similar episodic structure and optimistic view of the future. The show often tackles social issues, much like 'TNG.'

Fact: 'The Orville' was initially marketed as a comedy but evolved into a more serious sci-fi drama with comedic elements. Several Star Trek alumni, including Jonathan Frakes (Riker from 'TNG'), have directed episodes. The show's visual effects are produced by the same company that worked on 'Star Trek: Discovery.'