Television and streaming platforms are offering endless options for entertainment now, and it’s not easy for a show to capture public attention almost immediately, especially in thefantasygenre. Shows likeGame of ThronesandThe Witcherhave become global hits, dominating conversations and breaking viewership records. But there are countless other magical wonders that have flown under the radar.
What does it take for a fantasy series to become popular? Unsurprisingly, it requires a perfect storm of world-building, captivating characters, unique storytelling, andthe kind of production values that can bring an ambitious vision to life.Game of Thrones, an ideal example, stunned audiences for nearly a decade with its transportive, Machiavellian narrative, special effects that made dragons and shadow babies feel real, and costumes that set new standards for the genre.The Witcheris no different; its gritty take on the genre paired with the painstakingly crafted Continent was sure to become a global sensation.
But what about other equally imaginative, boundary-pushing shows that never got their due and quietly flew under the radar? The ones that dreamed up entirely new magical worlds and introduced us to unforgettable characters? This list is a celebration of 10 such obscure and unsung fantasy TV shows that are just as worthy of praise as their huge-scale counterparts.
10’BeastMaster' (1999 – 2002)
BeastMaster
Set in a primeval world where ancient magic is still a thing,BeastMasterfollows the adventures of Dar, the last surviving member of his tribe, who has the extraordinary ability to communicate with animals. A reluctant hero, he sets off on a quest to defeat the dark sorcerer, Balcifer, after he annihilates the people he cares about. But first, Dar must face evil forces, mythical creatures, and forbidden kingdoms.
A Hidden Gem of Magic and Adventure
BeastMastermay have been overshadowed by the big-budget fantasy epics of its era, but it is a cult classic that more than holds its own as a thrilling gem. Loosely based on the 1982 film, it offersa nostalgic nod to ‘90s fantasy TVwith its charming and adventurous story and inventive use of elements like mythology, sword-and-sorcery, and diverse landscape. It’s a refreshingly grounded take on the genre, anchored by Daniel Goddard as Dar. Overall, it is a must-watch fantasy series if you’re looking for something grand in visuals but intimate in storytelling.
9’The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself' (2022)
The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself
Premiering on Netflix back in 2022,The Bastard Son & The Devil Himselfis based on the novelHalf Badby Sally Green. It tells the story of a young outcast named Nathan Byrne, who finds himself caught between two warring factions of witches – the Fairborns and the Bloods. Marked from birth as an illegitimate son of the most feared and notorious Blood witch, Marcus Edge, Nathan is abandoned by his peers and hunted by both sides because he is a potential threat with his unclear identity.
Subversive Modern-Day Fantasy
Combining the moody, atmospheric aesthetic of gothic horror with the immersive,high-stakes thrill of YA fantasy,The Bastard Son & The Devil Himselfis a bingeworthy series that refuses to play by the rules. Its dark and compelling storyline juggles themes of identity, betrayal, inner conflict, and self-discovery. The character arcs are well-crafted, the action is often stylistic, and it subverts expectations with its modern-day witch-hunt narrative. With only one season, it even wraps up the story well.
8’Carnivàle' (2003 – 2005)
Set within the depths of the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s,Carnivàlefirst introduces us to a young drifter and fugitive named Ben Hawkins, who finds his life altered when he discovers that he has healing powers. He’s drawn into the orbit of a traveling carnival group led by Brother Justin Crowe, a preacher with dark, supernatural abilities. When their lives intertwine, Ben and Justice must fight in a cosmic battle between light and dark, good and evil.
Visually Stunning and Thought-Provoking
Carnivàlelasted only two seasons, but it stands out for its rich narrative and meticulous period detail. Blending elements of historical drama and supernatural horror, it paints a vivid portrait of 1930s America and creates a somber vibe that serves as an incredible backdrop for the clash between human and demonic forces. Clancy Brown, Nick Stahl, and Amy Madigan deliver brilliant performances as the leads.
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7’The Magicians' (2015 – 2020)
The Magicians
The Magiciansfollows the story of Quentin Coldwater, a grad student who discovers that the magical world he used to read about as a child in books is actually real and he has the potential to become a magician himself. He enrolls at Brakebills University for Magical Pedagogy and begins to learn magic. Along with his friends, Quentin even faces the dark forces threatening the fate of humanity while confronting personal demons.
Dazzling and Character-Driven
For the longest time,Harry Potterhas reigned as the only franchise to offer a rewarding story about magic and danger. And while it is nearly impossible to replicate the movies,The Magicianscomes close with its premiseabout a bunch of teenagers facing dangers of epic scope while navigating the intricacies of friendship. The series is a mature version ofHarry Potterthough, because it is dark and violent and witty. The series only enjoyed moderate success and failed to break into the mainstream market of fantasy TV shows.
6’The Rook' (2019)
Myfanwy Thomas is a young woman who wakes up on the rain-swept Millennium Bridge in London surrounded by dead bodies but with no memory of who she is or how she got there. When she looks for answers, Myfanwy discovers that she is an operative in a secret supernatural agency known as the Checquy and all the members are tasked with protecting the United Kingdom from paranormal threats and supernatural forces.
Fantasy Means Espionage
The Rookis a criminally overlooked series that only lasted for one season. But it has an addictive premise. It plays out like a spy drama with its web of conspiracies, betrayals, and suspicious allies taking center stage alongside Myfanwy’s struggle to reclaim her identity and the mystery behind her memory loss. Emma Greenwell of Shameless fame plays the role of Myfanwy. She’s supported by a talented cast that includes Jon Fletcher and Joely Richardson. Visually striking and narratively unpredictable, it’s worth checking out.
5’Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' (2015)
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrellis a British fantasy dramathat’s set against the backdrop of 19th century Englandduring the Napoleonic Wars. It centers around two very different men. Gilbert Norell, a reclusive, by-the-book magician and owner of Hurtfew Abbey in Yorkshire, and Jonathan Stranges, a young, bold, and innovative apprentice. Their rivalry and desire to become England’s greatest magician plunges the world into chaos.
Historical Fantasy Doused in Elegance
Adapted by Peter Harness from Susanna Clarke’s best-selling 2004 novel of the same name,Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrellboasts a lavish production. It is a well-acted drama that more than earns its place as a hidden gem for managing to create the same spectacle as some contemporary shows and still taking a refined and cerebral approach towards the narrative. The performances, particularly by Eddie Marsan and Bertie Carvel, drive its darkly humorous and multi-layered season.
4’Tin Man' (2007)
Upon reading the title of this fantasy miniseries, if your mind goes back in time and thinks of Dorothy Hale, you’re on the right track.Tin Manis a dark and modern reimagining of the classic tale inspired by L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The series follows DG, a small-town waitress, who is thrust into a magical realm called the O.Z. She discovers that her true heritage as a lost princess requires her to overthrow the tyrannical sorceress Azkadellia.
Nuanced Take on the Beloved World of Oz
Tin Manhas a lot of things going for itself. It brings back the nostalgia of Oz but also redefines the fantastical worlds with a gritty, steampunk, sci-fi aesthetic. DZ is played by Zooey Deschanel and Kathleen Robertson breathes life into the menacing Azkadellia. The main character joins forces with a band of companions that include Glitch, Raw, and Cain. The alternate world is realized with stunning perfection and the bold new narrative addsa unique flair to the old classic.
3’The 10th Kingdom' (2000)
The fantasy genre is filled with the most imaginative stories andThe 10th Kingdomis no different. Taking viewers to a parallel world where those imaginations come to life, it tells the story of Virginia Lewis, a young New York waitress, and her father Tony, who come across a portal that gives them access to a realm filled with fairy tale characters, both good and evil. They get entangled in a plot that involves Prince Wendell White, Snow White, Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood.
Lighthearted and Playful
The 10th Kingdomsweeps viewers up in a whirlwind adventure where iconic fairy tale characters cross paths with people from the real world. It combines humor, magic, and danger and makes you forget what’s real and what’s fantasy. Celebrated for its enchanting premise and irreverent humor, the series failed to achieve mainstream fame, but it had a dedicated fanbase. With standout performances by Kimberly Williams-Paisley, John Larroquette, and Scott Cohen, the show is delightful to watch.
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2’Galavant' (2015 – 2016)
Galavant is a handsome and heroic knight who finds his world turned upside down when his true love, Madalena, is stolen away by the evil King Richard. Determined to win her back, he goes on a rescue mission only to discover that Madalena prefers the wealth and power of the king over true love. Now that his dreams are shattered, he joins forces with his faithful squire, Sid, and the lovely Princess Isabella, to free Isabella’s kingdom from Richard.
Medieval Fantasy with a Musical Twist
Nothing short of a madcap musical adventure,Galavanthad a short lifespan, but in that time. It charmed viewers to no end. Its unique mashup of musical comedy and medieval fantasy offered an entertaining spin on the genre. The clever writing, catchy songs, infectious battles, and a charismatic cast led by Joshua Sasse, Timothy Omundson, Vinnie Jones, Mallory Jansen, and more, make it more fun and lighthearted.Galavantalso transitions between action, romance, and comedy quite seamlessly.
1’Camelot' (2011)
Based on the legend of King Arthur,Camelotexplores the complex aspects of his rise to power. The series begins with the sudden death of King Uther, which compels the sorcerer Merlin to place a young and inexperienced Arthur on the throne. But instead of mending the fractured kingdom, Arthur’s journey is filled with challenges. He must navigate court intrigue, personal temptation, betrayal, and the ever-looming threat of his manipulative half-sister, Morgan, who is plotting to claim the throne for herself.
Fresh Spin on a Beloved Mythology
The reasonCamelotfaded into obscurity was because television was already brimming with high-fantasy spectacles likeGame of Thronesat the time. But the series deserves to be revisited because of its mature, character-driven take on a classic legend. Refraining from adapting the same romanticism aspreviousCamelotadaptations, this one delivers an intense, realistic, and morally complex narrative. The talented ensemble paired with the glorious production design creates an unparalleled viewing experience.
