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Over 400 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Space Westerns on TV
Voting Rules
Vote up the shows that best blend the themes of westerns and science fiction.
Latest additions: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, The Book of Boba Fett
Most divisive: Obi-Wan Kenobi
The best space western shows can range from very western with some sci-fi elements to mostly science fiction with some classic western themes. This flexibility is what makes it such a fun sub-genre. Great space westerns also tend to include space pirates - which are a more dashing option to fill the space bandit roles.
From a quick-draw raygun hombre to robot horses, good space western series take some of the most interesting things about their respective genres and blend to create something new. The Star Trek series are space westerns that examine the new frontiers of galaxies, as are the Star Wars series, though none are as overt about their Western genre influence as the new Disney+ show, The Mandalorian. Many anime series also blend Westerns with sci-fi elements. One of the most popular space westerns is the cult series Firefly, which may only have had one series but is considered one of the best space western shows by many.
Popular space western TV shows have been a staple of television for years, but even so there's often debate about what the most entertaining space western show of all time is and if that show truly qualifies as a "space western". Don't let your favorite space westerns get to the bottom of the list, vote them up so they have the chance to mosey on up to the top spot.
In the vast expanse of the television universe, Firefly stands out as a beacon of innovative storytelling and genre-blending entertainment. This short-lived yet critically acclaimed series masterfully combines elements of science fiction, western, and drama, creating an immersive experience for its dedicated fan base. The ensemble cast, led by the charismatic Captain Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion), navigates the perils and moral quandaries of a futuristic frontier aboard their trusty vessel, Serenity. Despite its premature cancellation, Firefly's impact has been recognized through numerous award nominations, including an Emmy win for Outstanding Visual Effects. With its compelling narrative, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Firefly continues to shine brightly in the hearts of its admirers.
Actors: Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Sean Maher, Adam Baldwin
In a galaxy far, far away, The Mandalorian takes viewers on an exhilarating adventure through the uncharted territories of the Star Wars galaxy. This critically acclaimed series, nominated for multiple awards including 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, masterfully combines elements of sci-fi, action, and drama, creating a riveting narrative that keeps fans hooked. With Pedro Pascal in the lead role as Din Djarin, a skilled bounty hunter, the show delves into the complexities of his character while introducing new faces and revisiting some familiar ones. As the story unfolds, audiences become immersed in the captivating world-building and compelling storytelling that has come to define this enthralling series.
Actors: Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito, Omid Abtahi, Nick Nolte
A pioneering classic in the realm of science fiction television, Star Trek: The Original Series stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and human imagination. With its ensemble cast, including the iconic Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and the logical Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy), this groundbreaking series ventured where no show had gone before, exploring new worlds while tackling thought-provoking social issues and moral dilemmas. A multiple Emmy-nominated production, it not only inspired generations of fans but also spawned a vast universe of spin-offs, films, and cultural phenomena that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Actors: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Nichelle Nichols
Embarking on a thrilling journey through the uncharted Delta Quadrant, Star Trek: Voyager presents a compelling tale of exploration, resilience, and camaraderie. This esteemed sci-fi series, which has garnered multiple Emmy nominations, introduces audiences to Captain Kathryn Janeway (Kate Mulgrew) and her diverse crew as they navigate their way home after being stranded 70,000 light-years from Earth. Along the way, viewers are treated to thought-provoking storylines, intriguing alien encounters, and a masterful blend of action, suspense, and humor. By delving into the complexities of its characters and tackling themes of morality and cultural diversity, Star Trek: Voyager skillfully upholds the legacy of the iconic Star Trek franchise.
Actors: Kate Mulgrew, Robert Beltran, Roxann Dawson, Robert Duncan McNeill, Ethan Phillips
In the vast expanse of space lies a beacon of hope and adventure, where Star Trek: Deep Space Nine unfolds its compelling narrative. This critically acclaimed science fiction series, which garnered multiple Emmy nominations during its seven-season run, dives deep into the complexities of its diverse characters. Commander Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks) leads an ensemble cast as they navigate political intrigue, moral dilemmas, and personal growth aboard the eponymous space station. The show's unique setting allows for a rich exploration of both familiar and new alien species, while maintaining the spirit of human perseverance that defines the Star Trek universe.
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