Skip to main content

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

3 underrated 1980s sci-fi TV shows you should watch in November

By the 1980s, science fiction had become a much less niche proposition. Several major movies had proven that it was possible to make popular versions of these stories, and TV followed suit shortly after that.

While there were several immensely popular sci-fi series airing during this period, a few also fell under the radar. These three shows are perfect examples of why sci-fi storytelling became much more popular in the 1980s across a wide array of different formats, whether it was in the U.S. or the U.K.

Red Dwarf (1988)

Red Dwarf - Series 1 Trailer

A great example of a British sci-fi comedy, Red Dwarf ran for a staggering 12 seasons, and followed the adventures of the last man on Earth and his various companions. The show is immensely popular in the U.K., and new seasons still debut there every once in a while.

With clever writing and an enduring premise, Red Dwarf is both bleak and endlessly charming. It has the kind of cynicism that has often been a definitive feature of British science fiction. It may not be quite as adventure-oriented as its American counterparts, but that’s part of what has allowed Red Dwarf to endure.

Red Dwarf is streaming for free on Tubi.

V (1983)

V Trailer The Original V Miniseries

If you’re looking for something short and sweet, may fit the bill perfectly. The show was only a two-part miniseries when it originally aired in 1983, Following an invasion of Earth by humanoid aliens, the series tracks the slow realization that the aliens who claim to come in peace are in fact much more interested in becoming a conquering army.

The series ends on an admirably bleak note, with the alien conquerors dominating Earth, and a band of resistance fighters looking to space for an answer. It’s a nice, compact watch, and one that was a major deal when it was first released.

V is available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

Quantum Leap (1989)

Quantum Leap 1989 NBC Trailer

The kind of sci-fi series that has become more popular in retrospect than it was when it actually aired, Quantum Leap follows a scientist who finds himself traveling through time, hopping into a different body in a different period for every episode.

The show was light, science fiction joy, and it was exactly the kind of show that most people loved watching just to see what would happen next. The stakes are almost always incredibly low, but the charm of Quantum Leap is the unique adventure that comes with each and every episode.

Quantum Leap is streaming on Peacock.

Editors' Recommendations

Joe Allen
Joe Allen is a freelance writer based in upstate New York focused on movies and TV.
3 dramas on Prime Video you need to watch in November
3 dramas prime video watch november 2023 rocky

Amazon Prime Video has so much content to watch that’s included with your standard Amazon Prime subscription. From comedies to dramas, Amazon originals, classic network shows, blockbuster movies, and more, the options are endless.

If you’re looking for something that leans more towards the dramatic side, there are three dramas on Prime Video you need to watch in November. One is a gritty DC Comics superhero flick, one is a Tom Cruise classic, and the third is one of the most iconic films ever made.
The Batman (2022)
THE BATMAN – Main Trailer

Read more
3 TV shows on Tubi you should watch in November
A man walks down an alley in Luther.

The prices of many streaming services are getting out of hand. Every major streaming service, from Netflix to Disney+, has seemingly increased monthly rates over the last year. If you want to access thousands of movies and TV shows for free, then sign up for Tubi, an ad-supported streaming service. Tubi is considered a FAST streaming service, meaning it's free to sign up and use. The only catch is that ads will run sparingly during your program.

With over 50,000 movies and TV shows, Tubi can keep you entertained for a long time. To help you find something great to watch, we curated a list of three TV shows on Tubi you should watch in November: a DC origin story, a Lovecraftian drama, and a British crime thriller.
Gotham (2014-2019)

Read more
6 best TV shows you need to watch in December
tv shows you need to watch december 2023 reacher season 2

The end of the year is almost here: can you believe it’s almost 2024? As you wind things down at work, take time off to enjoy with the family, and relax, it’s the perfect time to curl up with a great show. There are plenty of new and returning shows this month that are available through all the top streaming services. Browse this list and you’re bound to find a few worth adding to your nightly viewing selection.

There’s everything from dramas to comedies, a British heist series, a Canadian gem, and the end of a royal era. Have a look at these six shows you need to watch in December and pick the ones you want to dive into before the year is over.
Slow Horses season 3 (December 1)
Slow Horses — Season 2 Official Trailer | Apple TV+

Read more