The 220 Best Cult TV Shows
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261.1K votes
18.4K voters
75 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the best TV shows that have a significant fan presence that can be seen on forums, websites, clubs or fan-fiction.
Latest additions: Doctor Who
Most divisive: Farscape
Over 18.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 220 Best Cult TV Shows
Dive into the riveting underworld of cult documentaries, a realm that spotlights charismatic leaders, devoted followers, and intoxicating ideologies. These engrossing series, shining a spotlight on the power of persuasion, decode the beguiling allure of cults for mass audiences, striking a masterful balance between entertainment and education. Unravel the intricate tapestry of compelling stories that echo chilling narratives from across the globe, shedding light on the devastating aftermaths that can ensue from blind faith.
As you immerse yourself in this exploration, anticipate encounters with classic documentaries about cults - productions that have captured viewers’ hearts and minds through their gripping depictions of cult ideologies in real-world settings. Stories of charismatic figures weaving surreal worlds of faith and devotion come to life, offering a unique blend of intriguing narrative structures and in-depth revelations. These distinguished series delve deep into hazardous belief systems and blind allegiances, dishing out enlightening insights into the art of manipulation and control within religious sects and cults.
Take, for instance, Wild Wild Country, a gripping tale of a guru and his followers who built a city in the Oregon desert, leading to conflict with local ranchers and the US government. Then there's Heaven's Gate: The Cult of Cults, that undertakes an eerie journey into an American UFO religious millenarian cult. Both series unfold layer by layer, drawing audiences into the heart of the cult dilemma. Other influential names such as Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath and Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey, further enrich this assortment. Viewers will find - as a cherry on top of this absorbing offering - handy streaming links to platforms including Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, Netflix, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime for an effortless viewing experience.
These best cult documentaries serve as illuminating guides into the tumultuous world of cults, tracking their origins, development, and oftentimes, explosive conclusions - all while triggering thought-provoking discussions on faith, control, manipulation, and freedom. Equipped with the extensive list mentioned above, you're well-prepared to embark on a captivating journey through the dark corridors of fascinating cult stories that unravel the human psyche's uncanny ability to submit to influential ideologies. Settle in for an eye-opening expedition that will leave you questioning, reflecting, and more deeply understanding the complex phenomenon of cults.
- 1Host Rod Serling introduces stories of fantasy and suspense.
- Premiered: October 2, 1959
- Network: CBS
- 2A high-school chemistry teacher has a midlife crisis.
- Premiered: January 20, 2008
- Network: AMC
- 3Noble families in the seven kingdoms of Westeros vie for control of the Iron Throne.
- Premiered: April 17, 2011
- Network: HBO
- 4Clark Kent and Lois Lane face their greatest challenge, being working parents in today's society.
- Premiered: February 23, 2021
- Network: CW
- 5The crew of a small transport ship experience a cosmic civil war.
- Premiered: September 20, 2002
- Network: FOX
- 6FBI special agents probe cases involving phenomena that defy conventional explanations.
- Premiered: September 10, 1993
- Network: FOX
- 7A contemporary spin on the novels by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring the peerless Sherlock Holmes.
- Premiered: July 25, 2010
- Network: BBC One
- 8Two brothers battle evil forces.
- Premiered: September 13, 2005
- Network: WB, CW
- 1Swan Song627 Votes
- 2Mystery Spot744 Votes
- 3The French Mistake701 Votes
- 9Buffy Summers battles evil in the suburbs.
- Premiered: March 10, 1997
- Network: WB, UPN
- 10An eccentric Time Lord travels through time and space to battle injustice across the universe.
- Premiered: March 26, 2005
- Network: BBC One
- 11Accidentally frozen, a pizza delivery boy wakes up 1,000 years in the future.
- Premiered: March 28, 1999
- Network: FOX, Comedy Central, Hulu
- 1Bender Rodríguez1,449 Votes
- 2Fry1,217 Votes
- 3Doctor Zoidberg1,312 Votes
- 12An FBI agent investigates murders in a Pacific Northwest town.
- Premiered: April 8, 1990
- Network: ABC
- 1Dale Cooper845 Votes
- 2Audrey Horne749 Votes
- 3Deputy Hawk531 Votes
- 13Homer and Marge Simpson raise Bart, Lisa and baby Maggie in Springfield.
- Premiered: December 17, 1989
- Network: FOX
- 14The lives of nerdy teenagers in a Michigan high school circa 1980.
- Premiered: September 25, 1999
- Network: NBC
- 15An eccentric family suffers a reversal of fortune.
- Premiered: November 2, 2003
- Network: FOX, Netflix
- 16A psychiatrist travels through time to alter people's futures for the better.
- Premiered: March 26, 1989
- Network: NBC
- 17The crew of the starship USS Enterprise boldly explores outer space in the 23rd century.
- Premiered: September 8, 1966
- Network: NBC
- 18An FBI agent, a brilliant scientist and his estranged son investigate unexplained phenomena.
- Premiered: September 9, 2008
- Network: FOX
- 19Mysteries unravel in a small Midwestern town involving supernatural forces.
- Premiered: July 15, 2016
- Network: Netflix
- 1Steve Harrington6,662 Votes
- 2Dustin Henderson6,041 Votes
- 3Jim Hopper5,353 Votes
- 20The crew of the starship USS Enterprise explores the galaxy and fosters peace in the 24th century.
- Premiered: September 28, 1987
- Network: Syndicated
- 21The adventures of four boys who live in South Park, Colo.
- Premiered: August 13, 1997
- Network: Comedy Central
- 22Students form a study group at a local community college.
- Premiered: September 17, 2009
- Network: NBC, YAHOV
- 1Epidemiology33 Votes
- 2Regional Holiday Music36 Votes
- 3Horror Fiction in Seven Spooky Steps29 Votes
- 23A forensics analyst moonlights as a serial killer.
- Premiered: October 1, 2006
- Network: Paramount+ with Showtime
- 24In the years following a zombie apocalypse, survivors seek refuge in a world overrun by the dead.
- Premiered: October 31, 2010
- Network: AMC
- 25A team searches for clues to save the Earth from imminent destruction.
- Premiered: July 27, 1997
- Network: Paramount+ with Showtime, Syndicated, Syfy
- 26Xena helps people free themselves against tyranny and injustice.
- Premiered: September 4, 1995
- Network: Syndicated
- 27Humorous skits from the British comedy troupe.
- Premiered: October 5, 1969
- Network: BBC One
- 28Humanity's last survivors search for a mythical planet called Earth.
- Premiered: January 14, 2005
- Network: Syfy
- 29Five egocentric friends run a bar together in Philadelphia.
- Premiered: August 4, 2005
- Network: FX, 82565, FXX
- 30A vampire with a conscience saves lost souls in Los Angeles.
- Premiered: October 5, 1999
- Network: WB
- 31Basil Fawlty handles the trials and tribulations of running a hotel.
- Premiered: September 19, 1975
- Network: BBC Two
- 32The odd buddies have many strange adventures.
- Premiered: September 9, 1995
- Network: WB
- 33Three sisterly witches battle the supernatural.
- Premiered: October 7, 1998
- Network: WB
- 34Survivors of a plane crash struggle for survival on a desert island.
- Premiered: September 22, 2004
- Network: ABC
- 35A doctor works at a hospital with unpredictable staffers and patients.
- Premiered: October 2, 2001
- Network: NBC, ABC
- 36The title character works as a private investigator to solve crimes in the seaside town of Neptune.
- Premiered: September 22, 2004
- Network: UPN, CW, Hulu
- 37A resourceful agent undertakes secret missions for the government.
- Premiered: September 29, 1985
- Network: ABC
- 38A novice sleuth convinces the police to let him help on baffling cases by pretending to be psychic.
- Premiered: July 7, 2006
- Network: USA Network
- 39A series of stories based on the EC horror comics of the 1950s.
- Premiered: June 10, 1989
- Network: HBO, FOX
- 40The Caped Crusader and Robin battle crime in Gotham City.
- Premiered: January 12, 1966
- Network: ABC
- 41A family of three moves from Boston to Los Angeles to reconcile its painful past.
- Premiered: October 5, 2011
- Network: FX
- 42Good battles evil in outer space.
- Premiered: September 17, 1978
- Network: ABC
- 43An out-of-favor son tries to win the approval of his father, the king.
- Premiered: June 15, 1983
- Network: BBC One
- 45A shadowy portrayal of the Caped Crusader and his alter-ego.
- Premiered: September 5, 1992
- Network: FOX
- 46A race of short, furry creatures live a carefree existence in a complex network of magical caves.
- Premiered: January 10, 1983
- Network: HBO
- 47The Outer Limits, an anthology series that delves into the realm of science fiction and the supernatural, offers viewers a thought-provoking journey through mysterious stories and enigmatic characters. With a diverse range of episodes, the show explores themes such as alien encounters, time travel, and alternate realities, captivating audiences with its imaginative storytelling. The series has garnered acclaim for its ability to provoke reflection on the human condition, earning recognition with multiple award nominations. Memorable performances, such as David McCallum's (Dr. Frank Turner) portrayal of a scientist grappling with ethical dilemmas, demonstrate the caliber of talent involved in bringing these compelling tales to life.
- Premiered: September 19, 1964
- Network: ABC
- 48Eleanor Shellstrop finds out that even in the afterlife, it's never too late to change your ways.
- Premiered: September 19, 2016
- Network: NBC
- 49Six years before Saul Goodman meets Walter White, he is known as small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill.
- Premiered: February 8, 2015
- Network: AMC
- 50The adventures of an eccentric family living in New England.
- Premiered: January 31, 1999
- Network: FOX
- 51Scrooge McDuck's globetrotting quests to gain more wealth.
- Premiered: September 18, 1987
- Network: Syndicated
- 52Wakko, Yakko, and Dot like wreaking havoc and mischief in the lives of everyone they come across.
- Premiered: September 13, 1993
- Network: FOX
- 53A mystery novelist solves crimes as she travels.
- Premiered: September 30, 1984
- Network: CBS
- 54The Doctor and friends travel from the dawn of human history to distant alien worlds.
- Premiered: November 25, 2023
- Network: BBC One
- 55Investigators use advanced technology to solve crimes of both alien and human origin.
- Premiered: October 22, 2006
- Network: BBC Three
- 56Ordinary people begin to find that they possess extraordinary powers.
- Premiered: September 25, 2006
- Network: NBC
- 57A woman endeavors to raise a daughter on her own.
- Premiered: October 5, 2000
- Network: WB, CW
- 58A mining ship, three million years from Earth, tries to return home.
- Premiered: February 15, 1988
- Network: BBC Two, UDAVE
- 59"Red" Reddington agrees to work with the FBI, on the condition he'll only work with profiler Keen.
- Premiered: September 23, 2013
- Network: NBC
- 60The crew of the Voyager, lost in space, searches for home.
- Premiered: January 16, 1995
- Network: UPN
- 61A bail bond collector must fight for the present-day world, in which fairy-tale characters now live.
- Premiered: October 23, 2011
- Network: ABC
- 62The adventures of a moose and flying squirrel in Frostbite Falls, Minn.
- Premiered: September 24, 1961
- Network: Nickelodeon, NBC
- 63Two government agents search the country for supernatural objects.
- Premiered: July 7, 2009
- Network: Syfy
- 64Seven castaways are stranded on a deserted island.
- Premiered: September 26, 1964
- Network: CBS
- 65A three-person IT group keeps its company running with minimal effort or social contact.
- Premiered: February 3, 2006
- Network: Channel 4
- 66A computer geek finds himself in receipt of the government's most-sensitive data.
- Premiered: September 24, 2007
- Network: NBC
- 67Animated comedy centered on a suave spy, Sterling Archer, and his misguided cohorts.
- Premiered: January 14, 2010
- Network: FX, FXX
- 68An out-of-work model becomes partners with a detective in the business she owns.
- Premiered: March 3, 1985
- Network: ABC
- 69Soap, a groundbreaking sitcom from the late 70s, cleverly satirized soap opera tropes with its outrageous storylines and larger-than-life characters. The show follows the lives of two sisters and their respective families, the Tates and the Campbells, navigating through infidelity, amnesia, alien abduction, and even murder. The show was notable for its controversial themes at that time - including homosexuality and interracial relationships - Soap was both lauded and criticized for pushing boundaries. Despite this controversy or perhaps because of it, Soap won several awards during its run - including an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.
- Premiered: September 13, 1977
- Network: ABC
- 70The inhabitants of a frontier town struggle for power.
- Premiered: March 21, 2004
- Network: HBO
- 71Fugitives help victims while being pursued as criminals.
- Premiered: January 23, 1983
- Network: NBC
- 72A former spy uses his Special Ops training to help people in need.
- Premiered: June 28, 2007
- Network: USA Network
- 73Superhuman abilities help the X-Men protect the world against evil.
- Premiered: October 31, 1992
- Network: FOX
- 74An outlaw motorcycle club is intent on protecting its sheltered California town.
- Premiered: September 3, 2008
- Network: FX
- 75A collection of short supernatural plays.
- Premiered: December 16, 1970
- Network: NBC
- 76Vampires walk the Earth using synthetic blood.
- Premiered: September 7, 2008
- Network: HBO
- 77A man learns that he can resurrect people simply by touching them.
- Premiered: October 3, 2007
- Network: ABC
- 78Clark Kent explores his dual identities as superhero and reporter.
- Premiered: October 16, 2001
- Network: WB, CW
- 79A group of highly trained S.H.I.E.L.D. agents investigates the strange and unknown.
- Premiered: September 24, 2013
- Network: ABC
- 80A New Yorker adjusts to life in a rural town in Alaska.
- Premiered: July 12, 1990
- Network: CBS
- 81Scientists save an astronaut by implanting him with high-tech devices.
- Premiered: March 7, 1973
- Network: ABC
- 82Astronaut John Chrichton tries to return to Earth after landing on an alien world.
- Premiered: March 19, 1999
- Network: Syfy
- 83A private eye reluctantly accepts a new partner.
- Premiered: October 1, 1982
- Network: NBC
- 84Nick, a warrior known as a Grimm, protects Portland from dangerous creatures known as Wesen.
- Premiered: October 28, 2011
- Network: NBC
- 85Detective James Gordon and a young Bruce Wayne navigate the dangerous world of Gotham City.
- Premiered: September 22, 2014
- Network: FOX
- 86New Warner Bros. style characters have fun.
- Premiered: September 14, 1990
- Network: FOX
- 87Undercover government agents Jim West and Artemus Gordon battle crime in the 1870s.
- Premiered: September 17, 1965
- Network: CBS
- 88A stalwart crew commands a space station located near a gateway to the far reaches of space.
- Premiered: January 4, 1993
- Network: Syndicated
- 89Sketch comedy starring Dave Chappelle.
- Premiered: January 22, 2003
- Network: Comedy Central
- 90A free-spirited beauty moves in next door to two physicists.
- Premiered: September 24, 2007
- Network: CBS
- 91Changed by a shipwreck, billionaire Oliver Queen becomes Arrow to right the wrongs of his family.
- Premiered: October 10, 2012
- Network: CW
- 92A team leads an expedition to a distant galaxy.
- Premiered: July 16, 2004
- Network: Syfy
- 93Eight strangers each experience a violent vision that links them all, both mentally and emotionally.
- Premiered: June 5, 2015
- Network: Netflix
- 94Drake Mallard dons a mask to fight crime.
- Premiered: September 6, 1991
- Network: Disney Channel
- 1Time and Punishment48 Votes
- 2Darkly Dawns the Duck (2)45 Votes
- 3Life, the Negaverse, and Everything44 Votes
- 95Jack Bauer must try to divert a catastrophe.
- Premiered: November 6, 2001
- Network: FOX
- 96Capt. Jonathan Archer commands a starship at the dawn of humanity's exploration of deep space.
- Premiered: September 26, 2001
- Network: UPN
- 97Individuals take on new personas for each new assignment.
- Premiered: February 13, 2009
- Network: FOX
- 98A homicide officer and narcotics detective target drug traffickers.
- Premiered: June 2, 2002
- Network: HBO
- 99A grad student accidently opens a wormhole to parallel universes.
- Premiered: March 22, 1995
- Network: FOX, Syfy
- 100A Los Angeles family operates a funeral home.
- Premiered: June 3, 2001
- Network: HBO
- 101Michael Knight and his high-tech, intelligent car thwart evil.
- Premiered: September 26, 1982
- Network: NBC
- 102A space-traveling family is stranded in the galaxy.
- Premiered: September 15, 1965
- Network: CBS
- 103Planet of the Apes is an American science fiction television series that aired on CBS in 1974. The series stars Roddy McDowall, Ron Harper, James Naughton, Mark Lenard and Booth Colman. It is based on the 1968 Planet of the Apes film and its sequels, which were inspired by the novel of the same name by Pierre Boulle.
- Premiered: September 13, 1974
- Network: CBS
- 104A deceased teenager is assigned to be a reaper in the afterlife.
- Premiered: June 29, 2003
- Network: Paramount+ with Showtime
- 105Criminal profiler Will Graham teams up with Dr. Hannibal Lecter to hunt serial killers.
- Premiered: April 4, 2013
- Network: NBC
- 106Thieves, hackers and grifters team up to act as modern-day Robin Hoods.
- Premiered: December 7, 2008
- Network: TNT
- 107A station's news director copes with a staff of eccentrics.
- Premiered: March 21, 1995
- Network: NBC
- 108Hank Hill, his friends and family live in suburban Texas.
- Premiered: January 12, 1997
- Network: FOX
- 109A man and his robot pals on a space station joke about the bad "B" movies they're forced to watch.
- Premiered: November 24, 1988
- Network: Comedy Central, Syfy
- 110Life on the Ponderosa with the Cartwright clan.
- Premiered: September 12, 1959
- Network: NBC
- 111A Chihuahua and a cat remain pals through bizarre adventures.
- Premiered: August 11, 1991
- Network: Nickelodeon
- 112A research scientist, who changes into a green man-monster when angered, searches for an antidote.
- Premiered: March 10, 1978
- Network: CBS
- 113The son of Zeus rescues people from monsters, demons and evil humans.
- Premiered: January 16, 1995
- Network: Syndicated
- 114A century after nuclear Armageddon on Earth, 100 youths return to test the planet's habitability.
- Premiered: March 19, 2014
- Network: CW
- 115Aliens give a high-school teacher a suit with special powers.
- Premiered: March 18, 1981
- Network: ABC
- 116Vampires, werewolves and ghosts struggle to have normal lives.
- Premiered: February 18, 2008
- Network: BBC Three, BBC America
- 117Adventures of a bumbling detective.
- Premiered: September 10, 1983
- Network: Nickelodeon
- 118Detectives and prosecutors pursue justice in the New York City streets and courtrooms.
- Premiered: September 13, 1990
- Network: NBC
- 119A teen finds new friends and trouble in high school.
- Premiered: August 25, 1994
- Network: ABC
- 120A diverse clan bridges cultural and generational gaps.
- Premiered: September 23, 2009
- Network: ABC
