Alternate history television shows offer us fascinating perspectives on how history might have unfolded differently. These narrative explorations not only captivate viewers but spark discussions about societal values and beliefs. Here, we present a curated list of the best alternate history TV shows that challenge conventional historical narratives.
Created by David Simon and Ed Burns, The Plot Against America transports viewers to an alternate reality where Franklin D. Roosevelt is defeated by Charles Lindbergh in the 1940 presidential election. As a Jewish family in New Jersey grapples with the rise of racism and xenophobia under Lindbergh's rule, the series examines the fragility of democracy and the perils of populism. The family's struggle to adapt in a transforming America challenges their beliefs and sense of security.
Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, Hollywood reimagines Tinseltown in a post-World War II era where a determined group of aspiring actors and filmmakers tries to make their mark. Blending fact and fiction, the show reveals a wish-fulfillment fantasy where bravery could alter the landscape of the movie industry. It invites viewers to consider what could have been, illuminating the often difficult road to success in Hollywood.
In Timeless, created by Eric Kripke and Shawn Ryan, a time machine theft leads a team—comprising an engineer, a scientist, and a soldier—on a thrilling chase through time. As they attempt to prevent changes to American history, they discover that their fates are interwoven with the very history they are trying to protect. This suspense-laden series combines action and thought-provoking historical scenarios, captivating fans of time travel narratives.
Created by Steve Blackman, The Umbrella Academy begins in a world where, on October 1, 1989, 43 women gave birth simultaneously, albeit with no apparent signs of pregnancy. Seven of these extraordinary children are adopted by an eccentric billionaire, Reginald Hargreaves, forming a dysfunctional superhero team. As they confront personal struggles and external threats, the series explores themes of family dynamics and the burden of expectations.
In The Man in the High Castle, created by Frank Spotnitz, viewers are thrust into a dystopian reality where the Axis powers triumphed in World War II, and America lies divided under Japanese and German rule. The series delves into the lives of individuals navigating this oppressive environment and the fragile peace maintained by tyrannical superpowers. When films showcasing an alternate history where the Allies won appear, the tension escalates, offering a gripping narrative about resistance and hope.
Created by Justin Marks, Counterpart is a sci-fi thriller that follows an ordinary un employee who stumbles upon a gateway to a parallel dimension. This alternate world is embroiled in a cold war with his own, complicating both his life and the life of his otherworldly counterpart, a top spy. As espionage escalates, the protagonist is drawn into a web of intrigue, raising questions about identity and loyalty.
Created by Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, and Ben Nedivi, For All Mankind postulates an alternate reality where the Space Race never-ending, sparked by a Soviet lunar landing first. The series unravels the intricacies of political tensions and astronaut aspirations, pushing humanity’s ambitions in the realm of space exploration. Stunning visuals accompany an exploration of what might have been, challenging viewers to rethink historical trajectories.
Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, 11.22.63 was created by Bridget Carpenter and follows Jake Epping, an English teacher who travels back in time to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Torn between his mission and personal life, Jake wrestles with moral dilemmas of altering history. The series builds suspense while inviting viewers to ponder the impact of historical events on the present.
As the first Korean Netflix original series, Kingdom, created by Kim Eun-hee, offers a gripping mix of historical drama and horror. Following a young Crown Prince during the aftermath of the Japanese invasion, the show weaves intrigue, betrayal, and the specter of a dangerous plague into its narrative. Notably, the series merges historical events with thrilling concepts, reminiscent of epic fantasy shows like Game of Thrones.
Created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, Fringe intricately explores bizarre phenomena in a reality teetering on the edge of chaos. Following a specialized task force that investigates strange occurrences, the series combines science fiction with thrilling detective work, tackling overarching themes of morality and the consequences of scientific exploration. Fringe captivates with its imaginative extensions of scientific theories, always grounding itself in the complex dynamics of human emotion.
These alternate history shows not only entertain but also challenge viewers to reflect on the intricacies of our own history. By asking "what if?" they create poignant narratives that resonate deeply with modern audiences, satisfying our curiosity about the past while peering into the potential of alternative futures.
Part 1/12:
Exploring the Best Alternate History TV Shows
Alternate history television shows offer us fascinating perspectives on how history might have unfolded differently. These narrative explorations not only captivate viewers but spark discussions about societal values and beliefs. Here, we present a curated list of the best alternate history TV shows that challenge conventional historical narratives.
10. The Plot Against America
Part 2/12:
Created by David Simon and Ed Burns, The Plot Against America transports viewers to an alternate reality where Franklin D. Roosevelt is defeated by Charles Lindbergh in the 1940 presidential election. As a Jewish family in New Jersey grapples with the rise of racism and xenophobia under Lindbergh's rule, the series examines the fragility of democracy and the perils of populism. The family's struggle to adapt in a transforming America challenges their beliefs and sense of security.
9. Hollywood
Part 3/12:
Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, Hollywood reimagines Tinseltown in a post-World War II era where a determined group of aspiring actors and filmmakers tries to make their mark. Blending fact and fiction, the show reveals a wish-fulfillment fantasy where bravery could alter the landscape of the movie industry. It invites viewers to consider what could have been, illuminating the often difficult road to success in Hollywood.
8. Timeless
Part 4/12:
In Timeless, created by Eric Kripke and Shawn Ryan, a time machine theft leads a team—comprising an engineer, a scientist, and a soldier—on a thrilling chase through time. As they attempt to prevent changes to American history, they discover that their fates are interwoven with the very history they are trying to protect. This suspense-laden series combines action and thought-provoking historical scenarios, captivating fans of time travel narratives.
7. The Umbrella Academy
Part 5/12:
Created by Steve Blackman, The Umbrella Academy begins in a world where, on October 1, 1989, 43 women gave birth simultaneously, albeit with no apparent signs of pregnancy. Seven of these extraordinary children are adopted by an eccentric billionaire, Reginald Hargreaves, forming a dysfunctional superhero team. As they confront personal struggles and external threats, the series explores themes of family dynamics and the burden of expectations.
6. The Man in the High Castle
Part 6/12:
In The Man in the High Castle, created by Frank Spotnitz, viewers are thrust into a dystopian reality where the Axis powers triumphed in World War II, and America lies divided under Japanese and German rule. The series delves into the lives of individuals navigating this oppressive environment and the fragile peace maintained by tyrannical superpowers. When films showcasing an alternate history where the Allies won appear, the tension escalates, offering a gripping narrative about resistance and hope.
5. Counterpart
Part 7/12:
Created by Justin Marks, Counterpart is a sci-fi thriller that follows an ordinary un employee who stumbles upon a gateway to a parallel dimension. This alternate world is embroiled in a cold war with his own, complicating both his life and the life of his otherworldly counterpart, a top spy. As espionage escalates, the protagonist is drawn into a web of intrigue, raising questions about identity and loyalty.
4. For All Mankind
Part 8/12:
Created by Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, and Ben Nedivi, For All Mankind postulates an alternate reality where the Space Race never-ending, sparked by a Soviet lunar landing first. The series unravels the intricacies of political tensions and astronaut aspirations, pushing humanity’s ambitions in the realm of space exploration. Stunning visuals accompany an exploration of what might have been, challenging viewers to rethink historical trajectories.
3. 11.22.63
Part 9/12:
Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, 11.22.63 was created by Bridget Carpenter and follows Jake Epping, an English teacher who travels back in time to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Torn between his mission and personal life, Jake wrestles with moral dilemmas of altering history. The series builds suspense while inviting viewers to ponder the impact of historical events on the present.
2. Kingdom
Part 10/12:
As the first Korean Netflix original series, Kingdom, created by Kim Eun-hee, offers a gripping mix of historical drama and horror. Following a young Crown Prince during the aftermath of the Japanese invasion, the show weaves intrigue, betrayal, and the specter of a dangerous plague into its narrative. Notably, the series merges historical events with thrilling concepts, reminiscent of epic fantasy shows like Game of Thrones.
1. Fringe
Part 11/12:
Created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, Fringe intricately explores bizarre phenomena in a reality teetering on the edge of chaos. Following a specialized task force that investigates strange occurrences, the series combines science fiction with thrilling detective work, tackling overarching themes of morality and the consequences of scientific exploration. Fringe captivates with its imaginative extensions of scientific theories, always grounding itself in the complex dynamics of human emotion.
Part 12/12:
These alternate history shows not only entertain but also challenge viewers to reflect on the intricacies of our own history. By asking "what if?" they create poignant narratives that resonate deeply with modern audiences, satisfying our curiosity about the past while peering into the potential of alternative futures.