Despite concluding over a decade ago, Fringe continues to resonate with fans of speculative fiction. This classic sci-fi series has not only left a lasting imprint on its audience, but it has also influenced a wave of contemporary sci-fi and fantasy television. The growing fascination with genres like sci-fi and fantasy has led to an explosion of new series, many of which incorporate elements of time travel, alternate dimensions, and deep investigative themes that Fringe so masterfully explored.
At its core, the best episodes of Fringe brilliantly fuse elements of crime procedural dramas with science fiction. Over its run, the series evolved from episodic narratives to intricate seasonal arcs, boldly delving into unpredictable and absurd storylines. The ensemble cast, featuring talents like Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble, and Lance Reddick, brought depth to increasingly convoluted narratives, ensuring that storytelling remained balanced between character development and plot progression. Similarly, many modern sci-fi series follow suit, enhancing character arcs while weaving in compelling speculative themes.
10 Timeless (2016–2018)
A standout in the realm of time travel narratives
Timeless, though short-lived with only two seasons, made a notable impact in the television landscape by intertwining historical context with its narrative. Much like Doctor Who, this series sent its characters on thrilling adventures across different time periods while maintaining the authenticity of their surroundings. The show’s central trio navigated the complexities of thwarting a rogue agent, enriching its historical explorations with a captivating overarching plot.
The integration of erudition and thrill made Timeless a fascinating homage to previous genre-bending shows like Fringe. Character dynamics, especially the tension between Lucy (Abigail Spencer) and Wyatt (Matt Lanter), complemented by the grounding influence of Rufus (Malcolm Barrett), resonated well with viewers and maintained engagement. Episodes immersively connected audiences to historical settings while furthering the overarching narrative.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Timeless (2016–2018) |
91% |
67% |
9 Lost (2004–2010)
A show that remains eternally captivating
Two decades after its debut, Lost is still celebrated for one of the most riveting pilot episodes in TV history. Its ongoing discussion is fueled by an array of unresolved mysteries that continue to intrigue its viewers. The adept craftsmanship of its creators in weaving unexpected twists keeps engagement levels high, solidifying Lost’s place in television history.
Fringe has often been viewed as the sci-fi counterpart to Lost. While Lost aired its final seasons, Fringe emerged with similar narratives that included non-linear timelines and explorations of scientific phenomenons. Both series masterfully tease audiences with cliffhangers, gradually unraveling their enthralling mysteries and shared themes of fate and free will.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Lost (2004–2010) |
86% |
90% |
8 Flashforward (2009–2010)
Navigating the unforeseen with intriguing dilemmas
Inspired by Robert J. Sawyer’s novel, Flashforward offers a fresh narrative akin to Fringe while echoing the themes found in more recent offerings like The Leftovers. The show centers around characters grappling with foreknowledge of their futures, exploring how this insight affects their relationships and choices. Although it was canceled after just one season, the complex thematic fabric of Flashforward resonates with contemporary audiences.
As a framing device, Flashforward employs FBI agents investigating the mysterious phenomenon of a worldwide blackout, leading to glimpses into glimpses six months into the future. This provocative concept forces characters into chaotic situations reminiscent of the investigative angles found in Fringe, offering a blend of suspense and personal tumult.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Flashforward (2009–2010) |
80% |
78% |
7 The X-Files (1993–2018)
An iconic science fiction saga
The X-Files remains one of the most iconic shows in the intersection of crime and science fiction. With Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny at the helm, delivering captivating performances as agents Scully and Mulder, the series skillfully balanced supernatural intrigue with a grounded, scientific lens. The dynamic interplay between these characters brought a refreshing perspective to its episodic format.
Notably, while Fringe shares thematic connections with The X-Files, it carves its unique narrative path. Rather than dwell in uncertainty about the paranormal, Fringe fully embraces the bizarre, offering audiences a world where strangeness is an everyday reality.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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The X-Files (1993–2018) |
74% |
86% |
6 Travelers (2016–2018)
A morally nuanced approach to time travel
In the realm of ambitious narratives, Travelers explores the paradoxes of identity and morality through its compelling plot. Characters sent from a dystopian future insert their consciousness into historical figures, complicating their lives as they juggle personal challenges with their overarching mission. This unique concept not only creates a blend of suspense and drama but also poses profound ethical questions about existence and humanity.
As the characters evolve over three seasons, their internal struggles become increasingly intricate, revealing the human side of their extraordinary mission. By reflecting on the implications of their actions on the timeline, Travelers resonates with similar discussions found within the landscape of Fringe.
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Series |
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Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Travelers (2016–2018) |
100% |
97% |
5 The 100 (2014–2020)
A post-apocalyptic narrative that evolves
The 100 transports audiences into a distant future grappling with the aftermath of apocalypse. While its narrative diverges from Fringe, the strong female lead, Clarke (Eliza Taylor), mirrors Olivia’s determination, showcasing resilience in adversity. Both characters face extensive challenges and ethical dilemmas in their quests for fairness and justice within their chaotic worlds.
From its inception, The 100 underwent substantial evolution across its seven-season run, demonstrating resilience and adaptability reminiscent of Fringe. The utilization of time jumps enriches the storytelling, inviting audiences to explore how characters navigate their dynamic surroundings and redefine humanity after prolonged isolation.
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Series |
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Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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The 100 (2014–2020) |
93% |
67% |
4 Alias (2001–2006)
A thrilling spy saga with clever sci-fi elements
Best known for her dramatic roles, Jennifer Garner held her own as CIA agent Sydney in Alias, a series created by J.J. Abrams. The narrative intertwines espionage with subtle sci-fi undertones, as Sydney grapples with her dual identity. Each season unveils revelations that constantly upend her perception of allies and adversaries alike, creating a suspenseful viewing experience comparable to Fringe.
The exploration of family legacies enriches the narrative, as Sydney emerges from a generational line of agents with heightened skills. As Alias transitioned towards serialized storytelling in its later seasons, it drew parallels to Fringe, particularly in emotional dynamics between characters, revealing how deeply-rooted familial ties can shape destinies.
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Series |
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Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Alias (2001–2006) |
86% |
88% |
3 Orphan Black (2013–2017)
A masterclass in acting and storytelling
Bringing audiences a gripping narrative, Orphan Black captivates with its exploration of identity and ethics, led by the stunning performance of Tatiana Maslany as Sarah Manning and her many clones. With each clone showcasing unique personalities, the series deftly examines themes of eugenics, agency, and the complexities of personhood, which forge its connection to Fringe.
The intricate storyline continues to evolve, tackling pressing societal issues tied to scientific exploration, echoing some thematic undercurrents found in Fringe. As clones navigate their disparate paths while confronting a shadowy corporate presence, Orphan Black reveals layers of conflict akin to those encountered in the multi-dimensional realities of Fringe.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Orphan Black (2013–2017) |
93% |
92% |
2 Severance (2022–Present)
A groundbreaking exploration of identity
As anticipation builds for the upcoming season of Severance, revisiting its intricate plot reveals a masterclass in storytelling. The narrative revolves around disjointed identities and existential themes, echoing elements found in Fringe. In both series, characters grapple with profound concepts involving memory, identity, and the ethical ramifications of their realities.
The high-quality performances, deft direction, and meticulous plot development earned Severance critical acclaim and a dedicated following. As audiences await season 2, its innovative narrative format promises to tackle profound themes such as corruption and personal grief, paralleling the complex layers seen throughout Fringe.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Severance (2022–Present) |
97% |
88% |
1 Eureka (2006–2012)
A comedic take on genius and innovation
Eureka invites viewers into a fictional town populated by brilliant scientific minds, where even the best intentions can lead to chaotic outcomes. The town’s mishaps are overseen by Sheriff Jack Carter (Colin Ferguson), whose charm and grounding presence contrast the eccentricities of the resident geniuses. The show’s unique blend of comedy and drama provides an entertaining take on the challenges inherent in living within a community of visionaries.
While maintaining a lighter tone than Fringe, Eureka touches on serious themes of responsibility, technological overreach, and societal implications of genius. Despite its comedic underpinnings, the show effectively explores the consequences of meddling with fate, much like the ethical dilemmas faced by characters in Fringe.
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Series |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Eureka (2006–2012) |
81% |
89% |
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