A fascinating genre that allows viewers to dive into imaginative worlds and embark on epic adventures, fantasy’s great appeal is not remotely difficult to understand. Fortunately for fans of both the genreandthe format of television series, 2024 has been a favorable year for fantasy TV—it has pushed boundaries of what it can achieve, ranging from ambitious adaptations to original screenplays. These shows continue to prove that fantasy is a dominating genre in the realm of entertainment, whether in film or TV.
To celebrate the grandeur of the genre, we take a look back at the best fantasy TV shows of 2024, examining how each of these series—both completely new projects or new seasons—have captured the attention of audiences with their visuals and premises, elevating the category with their creativity and ambition.
10’Renegade Nell' (2024)
Created by Sally Wainwright
Centering around Nell Jackson, who finds herself unexpectedly framed for murder and becoming the most notorious outlaw in 18th-century England,Renegade NellstarsLouisa Harlandin the lead role and has earned praise for its witty and engaging storytelling, cementing itself as an adventure and fantasy epic that fans of the genre should check out this year.
Renegade Nell’s performances, particularlyLouisa Harland’s as the titular character, are captivating and engaging, playing a huge part in anchoring the story and making it an entertaining watch. Despite some negativefeedback regardingRenegade Nell’s pacing,Sally Wainwright’s action-packed adventure TV show is quirky and humorous, resulting in a great watch for all ages. Furthermore, the series provides viewers with a refreshing take on the genre, balancing escapism with commentary, particularly on 18th-century societal expectations.
Renegade Nell
Watch on Disney+
9’The Rings of Power' (2022–)
Created by Patrick McKay and John D. Payne
Despite its polarized reception,The Rings of Powerimproves on every detail in Season 2, making it worth the watch if you enjoyThe Lord of the Rings. Set thousands of years before the novel in Middle-earth’s Second Age, the newRings of Powerseason illustrates the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron and his plan to deceive the Elves into creating more Rings of Power that he can use to dominate the free peoples of Middle-Earth.
Featuring a complex and rich narrative that delves into themes of greed, ambition, and the battle between good and evil,The Rings of Powerstands tall among the best fantasy shows of the year. While its standout elements are its beautiful visuals, enhanced by the stunning landscapes and special effects,The Rings of Power’s newest season offers intriguing character development and improved writing coupled with great performances by its cast.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
8’Kaos' (2024)
Created by Charlie Covell
StarringJeff Goldblumin the lead role,Charlie Covell’s highly creativeKaoscombines fantasy elements with dark comedy, with the results being nothing short of entertaining. Viewers with amodern-day Greek mythology retelling, with its creator delivering a multi-layered narrative exploring timeless themes such as the corruption of power and societal oppression.
Goldblum’s eccentric portrayal of God Zeus elevates this engaging show to higher levels, as it brings humor and layers the show’s central character. Through its bold and innovative retelling with sharp social commentary,Kaospresents a world that is equally surreal and divine, making most of its beautiful visuals and a strong ensemble cast, and using its fantastical elements to make for a thought-provoking and immersive viewing experience. Although short-lived (Kaoswas canceled after its first season),the show is still worth checking out.
7’Superman & Lois' (2021–2024)
Created by Todd Helbing
One of the most acclaimed superhero shows,Todd Helbing’sSuperman & Loissees the world’s most famous superhero and comic books' most famous journalist face the pressures of balancing work life, justice, and parenthood in contemporary society.Tyler HoechlinandElizabeth Tullochstar in the lead roles.
DespiteSuperman & Loisbeing canceleddue to branding issues, Helbing’sseries is celebrated for its high production quality, perfectly blending family drama, superhero action, and deep character exploration. WhileSuperman & Lois' newest and final season has a darker and more intense tone, the series maintains its essence and endures just as much of a captivating supernatural story, with its ultimate closure resonating with both long-time fans and newcomers. Through its exploration of heroism and family,Superman & Loisoffers viewers a lasting testament to Superman’s legacy as a cultural icon.
Superman and Lois
6’My Lady Jane' (2024)
Created by Gemma Burgess
In thisGemma Burgesscostume drama, Lady Jean Grey and her husband live during the reign of Edward, son of Henry VIII. Her life takes a wild turn when she unexpectedly finds herself crowned queen overnight and instantly becomes the target of criminals who want her dead. Based on the 2016 young adult fantasy novel written byCynthiaHand,BrodiAshton, andJodiMeadows.
Thanks to its creative blend of historical drama and magical realism with sharp humor,My Lady Janeis easily one of the most captivating additions to the fantasy genre this year, excelling in the romance realm as well. Through its reimagining of the tragic story ofLady Jane Grey, the series combines its engaging narrative with fantastical elements, making it an even more engaging viewing that mirrors contemporary issues, such as privilege and oppression.
My Lady Jane
5’Agatha All Along' (2024)
Created by Jac Schaeffer
A highly anticipated Marvel show,Agatha All Alongis a dark, supernatural fantasy that provides audiences withKathryn Hahn’s titular character’s backstory. The Disney original sees Agatha regaining freedom thanks to a teen’s help, inviting viewers to eventually embark on the Witches' Road trials to reclaim her powers.
Those who enjoy a campy series with a magical twist are probably going to want to giveAgatha All Alonga watch. The best part? Viewers who are not well-versed with Marvel lore can still enjoy it — though a few Easter Eggs will probably fly over their heads unnoticed. Regarded as one of the best Marvel shows andan undeniably worthy addition to the MCU,this fun and whimsical fantasy series is nothing short of entertaining, starting off slowly but ultimately becoming more intriguing by the fourth episode.
Agatha All Along
4’House of the Dragon' (2022–)
Created by George R. R. Martin
Based on parts ofGeorge R. R. Martin’s 2018 bookFire & Bloodand set about 100 years after the Seven Kingdoms are united by the Targaryen conquest,House of the Dragonis a worthy watch forGame of Thronesenthusiasts, as it provides fans with more context about the spellbinding fictional world. Back again with the release of season 2, it sees Queen Rhaenyra, played byEmma D’Arcy, and her Black Council consider their next move.
It’s impossible to discuss fantasy series without bringing up the critically acclaimedHouse of the Dragon. A fan-favorite in the genre, much like its predecessor,House of the Dragonis a shining star in fantasy, captivating viewers with its immersive worldbuilding and intrigue. Season two continues to impress audiences, even if it doesn’t scale the epic heights of the original series. With striking visuals, featuring beautiful landscapes, and a well-thought-out narrative that perfectly incorporates fantasy elements,House of the Dragonis a show you don’t want to miss.
House of the Dragon
Watch on Max
3’The Legend of Vox Machina' (2022–)
Created by Chris Prynoski
The Legend of Vox Machinais one of the many shows that have earned a second season this year, with the third chapter premiering in October. The newest season follows the Vox Machina crew as they face the Chroma Conclave, a group of powerful dragons, in one of their most perilous adventures. They travel to the mysterious ancient city of Vasselheim to search for allies.
Viewers who enjoyanimated shows featuring diverse magical powers, mythical creatures, and beautiful, visually immersive landscapes probably won’t regret givingThe Legend of Vox Machinaa watch. Featuring memorable, well-developed, and overall three-dimensional characters on top of its enthralling premise — with equal amounts of heart and humor —Prynoski and Crtical Role’s show makes for a captivating fantasy watch. The great news is it has been renewed for a fourth season.
The Legend of Vox Machina
2’The Boys' (2019–)
Created by Eric Kripke
Created byEric Kripke,The Boysis also a great addition to fantasy television, whether for the way it turns the superhero genre on its head and offers an unapologetic take that resonates with audiences or its action-packed narrative. This Prime Video dark comedy centers around a group of vigilantes who set out to take down corrupt superheroes who abuse their power.
Over the years,The Boyshas become more than merely a series, raising the stakes with its shocking reveals, epic confrontations, and timely social commentary that critiques corporate greed and political corruption. On top of its bold storytelling paired with a cast of complex, stylized world that genuinely feels like an alternate reality, and morally ambiguous characters, this fantasy series has cemented its growing popularity quite fast, with a spin-off also spiking interest among global audiences.
1’Arcane' (2021–2024)
Created by Christian Linke and Alex Yee
With a new and final season released this year,Arcanehas fully cemented itself as one of the most important and beloved fantasy shows of all time. Naturally, it is also a fan-favorite pick in the genre regarding the 2024 series. The season picks up after the events of the first one after Jinx launches a stolen Hextech gemstone at the Piltover Council,Arcaneis packed with beautiful animation and great action sequences that complement its engaging storytelling.
Thanks to its unique blend of hand-painted textures and 3D animation,the popular Netflix showis understandably one of the most visually exciting shows of recent times. Beyond its aesthetics, the show conquers viewers' hearts through its believable character arcs that set a gold standard in storytelling, with the relationships being emotionally charged and adding to its amazingly compelling narrative. It is not only a good pick for fantasy fans; it packs a punch for action enthusiasts, delivering plenty of memorable sequences filled with impeccable choreography and high stakes.
