Fantasy has always been the ultimate playground for the imagination. Whether it's a magical twist on our own world or a completely new realm of dragons and quests, the genre lets us escape into the impossible. And on television, fantasy has never been stronger. From streaming giants to classic networks, these shows prove that magic isn't just for the big screen.
We've ranked the perfect fantasy TV shows that we simply can't live without. These are the series that transport us, break our hearts, and leave us craving more. Get ready to add to your watchlist.
11. 'A Discovery of Witches' (2018–2022)
In a world where witches, vampires, and daemons hide in plain sight, historian Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer) accidentally summons a magical manuscript from Oxford's Bodleian Library. Suddenly, she's caught between deadly factions who want the book—and a centuries-old vampire, Matthew Clairmont (Matthew Goode), who can't resist her. Based on Deborah Harkness's All Souls trilogy, this series blends forbidden romance with biological worldbuilding. The costumes and sets are gorgeous, and the slow-burn chemistry is electric.
10. 'Pushing Daisies' (2007–2009)
Ned (Lee Pace) can bring the dead back to life with a touch—but if he touches them again, they're gone for good. He uses his gift to solve murders with detective Emerson Cod (Chi McBride), but when he resurrects his childhood sweetheart Chuck (Anna Friel), things get complicated. This whimsical, heartbreaking series from Bryan Fuller is a visual feast of candy-colored sets and witty dialogue. It's a story about love, loss, and the sweetness of second chances.
9. 'Beauty and the Beast' (1987–1990)
Before Disney's animated classic, CBS reimagined the fairy tale in modern New York. District attorney Catherine Chandler (Linda Hamilton) is rescued by Vincent (Ron Perlman), a gentle lion-like man living in the tunnels beneath the city. Their star-crossed romance is built on empathy and psychic connection. The first two seasons are swoonworthy, exploring prejudice and compassion with a poetic touch.
8. 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' (2022–Present)
Amazon's epic prequel to Tolkien's legendarium could have been a cash grab, but showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay deliver a visually stunning, emotionally resonant saga. With a massive budget, the series brings Middle-earth to life with cinematic grandeur. Morfydd Clark's fierce Galadriel and Charlie Vickers's sly Sauron are standout performances. It's a love letter to Tolkien's themes of hope and fallibility.
7. 'Outlander' (2014–Present)
Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), a WWII nurse, is mysteriously transported to 18th-century Scotland, where she falls for the dashing Highlander Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan). This time-traveling romance is epic in scope, blending history, adventure, and passion. The show's lush landscapes and intense chemistry make it impossible to turn away.
6. 'The Good Place' (2016–2020)
What happens after we die? In this philosophical comedy, Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) wakes up in a perfect afterlife—but she's there by mistake. Creator Michael Schur turns existential questions into hilarious, heartfelt television. The show's twists and turns keep you guessing, while its characters grow in surprising ways. It's a fantasy that makes you think and laugh.
5. 'Arcane' (2021–Present)
Based on the game League of Legends, this animated series is a visual masterpiece. Set in the twin cities of Piltover and Zaun, it follows sisters Vi and Jinx as they're torn apart by class warfare and tragedy. The steampunk aesthetic, complex characters, and emotional depth make it a must-watch for any fantasy fan.
4. 'His Dark Materials' (2019–2022)
Philip Pullman's beloved trilogy comes to life in this BBC/HBO adaptation. Lyra Belacqua (Dafne Keen) journeys across parallel worlds, accompanied by her daemon Pantalaimon. The show explores themes of free will, authority, and love, with stunning visual effects and a stellar cast including Ruth Wilson as the chilling Mrs. Coulter.
3. 'Game of Thrones' (2011–2019)
No fantasy list is complete without the show that defined a decade. Political intrigue, dragons, and epic battles made this HBO series a global phenomenon. Despite a controversial final season, its impact on television is undeniable. The world of Westeros remains a benchmark for fantasy storytelling.
2. 'The Witcher' (2019–Present)
Henry Cavill stars as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a morally gray world. Based on Andrzej Sapkowski's books, the series blends folklore, action, and dark humor. Anya Chalotra's Yennefer and Freya Allan's Ciri add depth to this sprawling saga. It's a gritty, adult fantasy that never pulls its punches.
1. 'Stranger Things' (2016–Present)
The Duffer Brothers' love letter to 80s sci-fi and horror is pure magic. In the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, a group of kids uncover a secret government lab, a parallel dimension called the Upside Down, and a girl with psychic powers named Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown). The show's blend of nostalgia, heart, and supernatural thrills makes it the ultimate fantasy series we can't live without.
These shows remind us why fantasy is the genre of endless possibilities. Whether you're into epic quests, forbidden romance, or philosophical comedies, there's something here for everyone. Which one will you binge next?
