7 Great Sci-Fi Shows That Continued After They Were Canceled

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Science fiction remains a consistently beloved genre, primarily because of the vastness and creativity of its storytelling. Sci-fi can present thought-provoking stories grounded in a believable version of today’s world, or it can transport us to distant futures filled with aliens and technology that seems unbelievable. Many of the most memorable sci-fi TV shows have become iconic parts of pop culture and still have dedicated fans long after they‘ve finished airing. But sometimes, a sci-fi show’s final episode isn’t truly the end of the story. It’s a genre that often lends itself to continuation.

Many beloved science fiction TV shows have become cult classics, remaining popular long after they’ve ended. Often, these shows don’t return to television, but continue their stories in other mediums – and comic books have proven to be a particularly successful way to do so. Several times, cancelled sci-fi series have been kept alive through comic book adaptations, offering fans a chance to get the closure they deserve for the show’s storylines. This phenomenon allows dedicated audiences to continue following the narratives they love, even after the original series concludes.

7) Dollhouse (Fox, 2009-2010)

Although Dollhouse isn’t as widely remembered as some of Joss Whedon’s other TV series, it still gained a dedicated fanbase during its short run. The show centered on a company that used individuals, called Dolls, who were given temporary skills or personalities, but it was unfortunately cancelled after only two seasons. Thankfully, the story continued in the comic book series Dollhouse: Epitaphs, which explored what happened to various characters after the Dollhouse closed. It’s not only a science fiction show that holds up remarkably well today, but the comic book sequel was just as captivating.

6) Jericho (CBS, 2006-2008)

Jericho first aired in 2006, telling the story of people living in the town of Jericho, Kansas, right after a nuclear war. Though it only lasted for 29 episodes across two seasons, it quickly gained a dedicated and loyal fanbase. Because of its popularity, many fans felt Jericho was a sci-fi TV show that ended prematurely. When plans for a follow-up movie fell through, the story continued as a comic book series. This comic book series finished many of the plotlines that were left open when the show was cancelled.

5) Star Trek: The Original Series (NBC, 1966-1969)

Only a few science fiction TV shows have truly impacted the world, but Star Trek: The Original Series stands out as one of the most influential. Even after it ended in 1969 after three seasons, the story continued in a comic book series. These comics followed the ongoing adventures of the USS Enterprise and its memorable crew. The comic books were important because they connected the original show with the later revival of Star Trek on television, ensuring the franchise remained popular during its time off the air.

4) Farscape (Syfy, 1999-2003)

Besides featuring some of the most memorable sci-fi TV aliens, Farscape is also well-known for being cancelled before its time. The show was originally intended to last five seasons, but its story was left incomplete when it ended after only four, finishing on a cliffhanger. Rather than simply stopping the story, Farscape continued as a comic book miniseries, allowing the narrative to unfold in a different format.

3) Buffy the Vampire Slayer (The WB & UPN, 1997-2003)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer was a hugely popular show from the late ’90s because it cleverly combined fantasy, horror, science fiction, and the everyday struggles of being a teenager. Although the show dealt with supernatural themes, very few Buffy episodes were genuinely frightening, which broadened its appeal. Even though the television series ended, the finale didn’t quite satisfy all its viewers. Fortunately, a continuation was created by Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon in comic book form. This ensured the comic series stayed true to the original show and kept its existing fanbase engaged.

2) Firefly (Fox, 2002)

Many consider Firefly to be a sci-fi show that was remarkably innovative for its time. Its cancellation after only one season remains a disappointment for its devoted fans. Created by Joss Whedon, this space western followed the adventures of a smuggling crew struggling to survive after the losing side of a major galactic war, and it quickly became beloved by viewers. Though the show ended after just 14 episodes, the story didn’t truly end there. Firefly continued through a standalone film and a comic book series, which expanded upon its compelling and detailed universe.

1) Smallville (The WB & The CW, 2001-2011)

Superman is a truly legendary superhero, but Smallville offered a unique take on how he began, spending 10 seasons exploring Clark Kent’s life before he became the Man of Tomorrow. While the show was popular, this extended format arguably went on for a bit too long, with Clark only fully becoming Superman in the very last scenes. Nevertheless, fans who enjoyed Tom Welling’s portrayal of the character were pleased to see Smallville’s story continue in a series of comic books, detailing how the show’s characters evolved into the more familiar heroes within the broader DC universe.

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2025-10-03 23:01