Geek culture is in. It’s not so niche anymore (much to the lament of some in various fandoms!), but the upside of going mainstream is more shows, more episodes, and more chances to discover your next favorite series.
If you’re just diving into geek TV, the good news is you don’t need to watch everything to enjoy the best. From groundbreaking classics to modern streaming hits, we’ll guide you through some of the most iconic series and why they’re so beloved. Expect unforgettable worlds, clever storytelling, and characters you actually want to spend time with.
Without further ado, here are some essential geek TV shows (organized by genre) you should check out!
Overall Best Geek Shows
Think of these as your gateway series. Loved across fandoms, endlessly rewatchable, and guaranteed to hook you from the first episode.
1. Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)
Don’t let the fact that this show was cancelled after just one season fool you—Freaks & Geeks still has a devoted fanbase and earned critical acclaim, featuring a cast that includes James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Linda Cardellini.
Set in the 1980s, it follows teens juggling high school, Dungeons & Dragons, and pop culture, capturing all the awkward, hilarious, and heartfelt moments of adolescence.
2. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
No doubt you’ve heard of this one—and for good reason! A sitcom about four socially awkward scientists navigating life and love, it’s packed with references to Star Wars, Doctor Who, and Marvel.
This is the show that gave us the iconic (and maybe just slightly annoying) catchphrase, “Bazinga!” Definitely worth a watch if you’re new to nerdy shows—especially since there’s over a decade of episodes to enjoy. Plus, it captures the evolving social dynamics of geek culture from the early 2000s, making it both a fun time capsule and bingeable comedy.
3. Doctor Who (1963-present)
The Doctor is a time-traveling alien who explores the universe in a blue police box, saving civilizations and, occasionally, breaking hearts—a strange and intriguing sentence if you’ve never ventured into the world of Doctor Who.
This truly is the ultimate sci-fi series, with endless lore to sink your teeth into! Its ability to reinvent itself every few years (regenerating, if you will) with new Doctors and explorations of fresh social issues makes it a must-watch for both newcomers and longtime fans.
Shows for Sci-fi Geeks
Need a bit more space opera? Craving cyberpunk futures and mind-bending concepts? We’ve got you…
1. Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)
Captain Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise explore strange new worlds in this iconic sci-fi series that has inspired countless spin-offs over the years.
Once you’ve finished The Next Generation, check out Deep Space Nine, Voyager, Lower Decks, Picard, and Enterprise. Truly, you will boldly go where no one has gone before.
2. Firefly (2002)
Another show cancelled far too soon, Firefly has earned a devoted cult following for its unique mix of sci-fi and Western elements set in a richly developed universe.
Follow a ragtag crew of space outlaws as they struggle to survive on the fringes of a powerful galactic government—adventure, humor, and heart guaranteed!
3. The Expanse (2015-2022)
Hard sci-fi at its finest, grounded in real physics and believable politics.
Set in a colonized solar system, tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt threaten to erupt into war—while a mysterious alien protomolecule changes everything. We won’t spoil more; experiencing it for the first time is nothing short of life-changing.
Shows for Fantasy Geeks
If sci-fi isn’t your thing—or you’re craving sorcery and mythical creatures—these shows will scratch that fantasy itch.
1. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
If you’re looking for something more upbeat, with a mix of humor, heart, and horror, check out Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This foundational geek TV series follows Buffy Summers, a teenager juggling high school and vampire-slaying duties. Fun, campy, and packed with quippy one-liners, it’s the kind of show you’ll binge from start to finish.
2. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
An absolute powerhouse, Game of Thrones follows noble houses through endless battles and shifting alliances as they vie for the Iron Throne in Westeros. Meanwhile, dark forces stir beyond the Wall…
With horror, drama, and cinematic production values, it’s a show that’s destined to become a staple in your re-watch list.
3. Stranger Things (2016-present)
Everybody’s heard of Stranger Things, but have you actually given it a chance? Nostalgic yet fresh (and with more to come!), this series from the Duffer Brothers has become a modern geek TV staple.
What to expect: kids in 1980s Indiana facing off against supernatural horrors from the Upside Down. Anything beyond that would be a spoiler—you’ll have to see the hype for yourself.
Reality Geek TV
Not all geeky TV is scripted. Here are a few shows that celebrate fandom in its purest form—the geeks themselves.
1. Kind of the Nerds (2013-2015)
A true celebration of geekdom—minus the stereotypes. Contestants compete in challenges ranging from comic trivia to elaborate builds, all vying for the title of “King of the Nerds.” It might not be a title you ever imagined wanting, but after watching, it could easily become your new life ambition.
2. Beat the Geeks (2001-2002)
Packed with hilarious deep-cut questions, this trivia game show is perfect for shouting answers at your screen (we know we do). Contestants face off against “geeks” specialized in TV, movies, and music. Whether you win or lose, you’re guaranteed to learn a thing or two.
3. Comic Book Men (2012-2018)
Love comics? This reality series gives a behind-the-scenes look at a New Jersey comic book shop, blending geek culture with the business side of fandom. Expect rare collectibles, passionate fan debates, and plenty of geeky fun!
Honorable Mentions
We couldn’t resist sharing a few more must-watch TV shows that don’t quite fit into the sci-fi, fantasy, or reality categories!
- The Mandalorian – Packed with classic Star Wars lore and, of course, the irresistible Grogu. What more could you want?
- The Umbrella Academy – Dysfunctional superhero siblings reunite after their adoptive father’s death to uncover the mystery behind it.
- MythBusters – Perfect for anyone who loves geeking out over science experiments.
- Community – Overflowing with meta humor, D&D episodes, and endless pop-culture riffs.
- Alien: Earth – The Alien franchise lands on TV for the first time, bringing its trademark tension, terror, and xenomorph horror to a new generation of fans.
Geek Walls, Activated
Love it? Flaunt it. Whether it’s the heroic battles, dark twists, or hilarious nerdy antics, your favorite series deserve more than a screen—they deserve a place on your wall. With Displate’s licensed posters, your room becomes a gallery of geek glory, showing the world exactly what you’re into.
From The Big Bang Theory and Stranger Things to Star Trek, Game of Thrones, The Witcher, Westworld, and the animated brilliance of Arcane, our lineup covers every corner of the fandom multiverse. Bring your favorite worlds home—one metal poster at a time.
