10 Forgotten Fantasy TV Shows That Deserve A Second Chance

It is not always clear why someone fantasy The TV show is popular, while another fails to capture the public’s attention. However, the most popular additions to the genre in recent years have all been crossover hits that connect with viewers who would normally tune in to speculative fiction, as well as a variety of other audiences. These new viewers found themselves drawn to the intricate world-building and storytelling of these projects. As fantasy has been gaining traction with wider audiences, It’s about time neglected and forgotten series were brought back to the forefront of the conversation.

While there are some fantasy TV shows that continued for many seasons, these forgotten series were typically cut short. However, even those who had successful years did not enjoy the same legacy of fantastic projects that will be remembered for years to come. There are many reasons why these programs have been largely forgotten, whether it was the lack of a stronger audience base during its run or whether it cost too much to produce. Whatever the cause, it doesn’t change the fact that these shows are iconic and should be recognized for their contributions to fantasy.

10

Carnival (2003–2005)

This mythical fantasy series hits a gothic tone with deliberate pacing

There are many familiar faces in Carnivala Great Depression-era fantasy period piece which is a precursor to recent television works such as American horror story or Terrible Penny. Addressing different religions, occultism and infusing many gothic influences, Carnival utilized the darker, desolate, and grim aspects of this part of the story to make the fantasy elements seem even stranger and scarier. However, this is what sets the series apart and makes it memorable, as it avoids the classic sword and sorcery parts of fantasy.

Carnival is a fantasy TV show that had huge potential, but was canceled after the first two seasons. It is likely that Carnival would perform better today and be a response to the many high fantasy TV shows that air on a variety of streaming services. Every part of the story, from character development to the overarching plot, was slowly and deliberately revealed to the audience, never revealing anything too soon. There is an argument to be made that Carnival It would be a great candidate for a reboot series, giving it a second life.

9

The Storyteller (1987–1989)

Puppets, actors and enchanting legends create an unforgettable atmosphere in The Storyteller

Also stylized as Jim Henson’s Storyteller, This criminally underrated series combines the Henson Company’s characteristically beautifully realized puppetry with live action acting to bring classic folklore to life. John Hurt plays the titular Narrator who narrates the obscure European legends that The storyteller brought to life. There was a brief spinoff series, The storyteller: Greek mythswhich aired in 1991, which followed the same format but with Greek legends. However, for audiences looking to enter a never-before-seen world, the original is the best place to start.

Hurt was the perfect choice to play the Narrator, as his voice, demeanor, and wisdom combine to draw the viewer in and encourage them to curl up alongside the dark and compelling tales. Although intended for audiences of all ages, The storyteller did not hesitate to deal with more serious and dark legends that don’t always end with a classic happily ever after. However, that’s part of the reason it’s so compelling to watch The storyteller today and why the narratives it presents have stood the test of time.

8

Galavant (2015–2016)

Silly, cheerful and full of music, Galavant is fun until the end

A raunchy comedy series with musical numbers included, Galavant Didn’t get the credit and fame he deserves as a clever addition to the genre. Following the misadventure of Sir Galavant, the show isn’t afraid to include every possible medieval fantasy plot and folklore into the story, allowing for plenty of references to great films, TV shows, and works of literature. The series also features original musical numbers written by Alan Menken and Glenn Slater, resulting in high-quality songs that juxtapose the silly tone.

Timothy Omundson, known for his work on the beloved mystery comedy series Psychologicallend your talents to Galavant alongside Joshua Sasse as the titular Sir Galavant. However, the supporting cast is equally talented, with Karen David and Luke Youngblood anchoring the narrative with a respite from the misplaced bravery and self-importance that gets Sir Galavant into trouble. Also featuring iconic cameos from actors and musicians, Galavant isn’t afraid to lean into the exaggerated side of fantasy, what modern series could do with a little more.

7

Misfits (2009–2013)

A British superhero show that centers young people as rising heroes

The British science fiction and fantasy series Misfits is a cult classic with audiences who are long-time fans of Robert Sheehan, who rose to prominence thanks to The Umbrella Academy. In the same way as the American TV series Heroes, the characters in Misfits start developing incredible superpowers in an interrogative twist on the superhero genre. This is made even more compelling by the fact that all of the powerful people are teenagers struggling with their own insecurities and issues, influencing their judgment and the way they use their new abilities.

However Misfits has long been recognized for its effective blend of humor and drama in the UK, international audiences aren’t as familiar with the project, and that’s a shame. Running for five seasons, Misfits There’s plenty of drama and intrigue to keep viewers interested in each episode and it has incredible potential for viewers looking for a new sci-fi fantasy show with a little edge. While the comedy and subject matter may be mature, that’s part of the charm of Misfits.

6

Cursed (2020)

The Arthurian legend comes to life once again in this updated series

An updated, character-based addition to the canon of Arthurian TV shows and movies, Cursed presents the perspectives of the Druid people. Katherine Langford, known for her work on 13 reasons whystar as Nimue, the Fey featured heavily in the stories surrounding King Arthur’s rise to power. However, this version of the story shows Nimue and her people trying to fight the destruction of their lands and traditions at the hands of a corrupt king and serves as a coming-of-age story for young Nimue.

Many viewers and critics wondered why Netflix was canceled Cursed after one season, but unfortunately it fell victim to the same fate as many promising series before it. How your audience didn’t match the production cost Cursed was an axe, and viewers will have to return to the single season multiple times to remember the story. However, the compact and innovative narrative is worth revisiting as it reshapes traditional storytelling in a new and relevant way.

5

The Shannara Chronicles (2016-2017)

This fantasy teen drama features familiar faces and well-crafted source material

Before turning into iconic characters like Elvis in Elvis and Feyd-Rautha in Dune: Part TwoAustin Butler was branching out from his roots as a child actor with his starring role in The Shannara Chronicles. Surprisingly, the series’ popularity hasn’t skyrocketed, as recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of fantasy TV shows based on books. Despite this, the fact that The Shannara Chronicles was based on The Sword of Shannara Terry Brook trilogyThis did not help to make a big impact on the public.

Filled with iconic sword and sorcery elements and a strong coming-of-age narrative, The Shannara Chronicles they could have been teen fantasy TV shows. For viewers ready to delve into fantasy but don’t want an epic saga on the scale of Game of Thrones or The Wheel of Time, The Shannara Chronicles is a great place to start. Butler is joined by a strong cast of young actors who give their all in the mission that the protagonist, Will (Butler), is sent on to prevent the end of the world.

4

Schmigadoon! (2021–2023)

This musical comedy series features the work of some of the best comedians of the 21st century

Despite its incredible quality, stellar performances and incredible musical numbers, Schmigadoon! it was always going to be a hard sell to a wide range of audiences. Musicals are not for everyone, but for those who enjoy stories that poke fun at the light-hearted themes of musical theater while paying homage to the craftsmanship, Schmigadoon! It’s the perfect series. With a pair of protagonists who are as shocked to find themselves in a musical world as any audience member would be, the show is surprisingly accessible.

Unfortunately, there are only two seasons of Schmigadoon! to enjoy, but the series effectively raised the stakes and kept the story fresh in its second outing. Fortunately, there is a Schmigadoon! musical set to debut at the Kennedy Center in 2025 (via Deadline). This will likely appeal to the dedicated fan base that has been with Schmigadoon! from the beginning. With an incredible cast led by Cecily Strong and Keegan-Michael Key Schmigadoon! It will soon be considered a cult classic.

3

Carnival Row (2019–2023)

This star-studded series came and went and should have made a bigger impact

Discrimination, immigration and cultural clashes are explored in Amazon Prime’s lesser-known fantasy series Carnival. Starring Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne, Carnival is one of the many magical shows that Prime has produced in recent years, cementing the streamer as the home of some of the best fantasy TV shows of the 2020s. Carnival is often overlooked in this conversation, which may be due to the series’ steampunk influences.

Although steampunk is an interesting and vibrant aesthetic, its heyday was near the end of the 2000s and early 2010s, placing Carnival a little late. The premise of the series revolves around the discrimination faced by magical races such as fairies and fauns. at the hands of human beings and how their communities suffer from acts of violence and crime at disproportionate rates. While Carnival may have received mixed critical reception, it tried hard to deal with serious subject matter, and it consistently delivers beautiful visuals.

2

Sense8 (2015–2018)

Canceled too soon, Sense8 had to rush its explosive conclusion

The Wachowski Sisters lend their typically visionary storytelling skills to the short-lived but beloved fantasy series Sense8. It’s a show that might have been remembered as perfect if it hadn’t been canceled by Netflix after its second season. Through its unforgettable premise, Sense8 It brings together people from all corners of the world and connects them through a psychic bond. This bond imbues them with power and knowledge they never had before and leads to emotionally raw confrontations and realizations.

Despite its significant budget and epic scale, Sense8 It went unnoticed by many viewers and was quickly forgotten after the series finale. However, just because the show has a limited number of episodes doesn’t mean they’re not worth watching. Witnessing the eight protagonists and members of the psychic group grow, change, and develop throughout the story is an incredibly moving experience. With beautiful on-location locations and cleverly used practical effects, Sense8 it makes viewers feel as connected to the characters as they do to each other.

1

Grimm (2011–2017)

An intricate darkness sets Grimm apart from other crime procedurals

However Grimm could easily fall into the category of supernatural procedural, the series is much more than that. Adhering to the legacy of the Brothers Grimm, the famous storytelling duo who are credited with recording some of the most iconic fairy tales of all time, Grimm sees its hero fight against the forces of evil and darkness in the role of a detective. David Giuntoli plays Nick, the police officer who discovered himself as the titular Grimm, a person capable of seeing legendary creatures and monsters and tasked with stopping them.

One of the problems that has prevented Grimm What is most remembered is the fact that it is so similar to other fantasy series that performed best. Once upon a time also deals with folktales and legends, but has the added advantage of having access to the fairy tale intellectual property that Disney owns. However, it would be a mistake to say that Grimm it’s just a copy of their influences. Living up to its name, Grimm leans into the dark and dangerous aspects of its premise and it is an interrogation worthy of the procedural format of the crime.