The 25 Best Shows Like 'Ancient Aliens', Ranked By Fans
  • Photo 1:
    • The X-Files
  • Photo 2:
    • Unsolved Mysteries

The 25 Best Shows Like 'Ancient Aliens', Ranked By Fans

Molly Gander
Updated January 15, 2025 25 items

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Vote up shows perfect for fans of ‘Ancient Aliens’.

Since its initial release in 2009, Ancient Aliens has abducted audiences with its blend of historical intrigue and extraterrestrial speculation by traversing the realms of ancient civilizations and potential alien encounters. The show has ignited a fervor for theories that challenge conventional wisdom, from pondering the mysteries of the Egyptian pyramids to exploring the possibility of UFOs influencing human history, Ancient Aliens has become a staple for those who crave the thrill of the unknown. Now that many fans have gone through every episode, the search is on for more shows like Ancient Aliens to keep that sense of wonder alive.

One of the defining traits of any TV series like Ancient Aliens is its ability to explore unexplained phenomena and present theories that stretch the imagination. This blend of curiosity and wonder is what makes these shows so addictive, so whether it's the spine-chilling reenactments and paranormal explorations in Unsolved Mysteries, or the charismatic Giorgio Tsoukalos continuing his quest for extraterrestrial evidence in In Search of Aliens, these series keep the excitement going. For those fascinated by the cosmos, Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey offers a breathtaking journey through the universe, while Ancient Discoveries provides fresh insight into lost technologies that rewrite history. The best shows similar to Ancient Aliens live in worlds of government cover-ups and UFO conspiracies, capturing the essence of exploration and inquiry, making them perfect companions for those eager to uncover the secrets of our world and beyond.

  • The X-Files
    • Photo:
      • The X-Files
    1
    16 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Exploring unexplained phenomena and government conspiracies, The X-Files dives ventures into mysteries that often defy conventional explanations, making it a perfect match for those who relish the speculative nature of Ancient Aliens. Agents Mulder and Scully investigate bizarre cases involving possible extraterrestrial influences, blending sci-fi drama with investigative storytelling in a way that complements the themes of Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    FBI special agents probe cases involving phenomena that defy conventional explanations.
    • Actors: Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi, Robert Patrick, Annabeth Gish
    • Premiered: September 10, 1993
    Every X-Files Episode, Ranked Best to WorstSee all
    • Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose
      1Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose
      923 Votes
    • Bad Blood
      2Bad Blood
      880 Votes
    • Home
      3Home
      704 Votes
  • Unsolved Mysteries
    • Photo:
      • Unsolved Mysteries

    Why you'll like this show:

    With spine-chilling reenactments and deep dives into paranormal explorations, Unsolved Mysteries excels in presenting intriguing and unsolved cases, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy the eerie and mysterious elements of Ancient Aliens. Its focus on enigmatic and supernatural phenomena aligns closely with the speculative and curious nature of Ancient Aliens, offering a similar sense of fascination and wonder.

    Premise:

    Reenactments and interviews retell the circumstances of unsolved crimes and paranormal events.
    • Actors: Robert Stack, Dennis Farina, Keely Shaye Smith
    • Premiered: September 14, 1988
    What To Watch If You Love 'Unsolved Mysteries'See all
    • Mindhunter
      1Mindhunter
      43 Votes
    • Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction
      2Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction
      18 Votes
    • The Keepers
      3The Keepers
      29 Votes
  • In Search of Aliens
    • Photo:
      • user uploaded image
    3
    8 votes

    In Search of Aliens

    Why you'll like this show:

    Fronted by the charismatic Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, In Search of Aliens continues the quest for extraterrestrial evidence, goes into mythological creatures and other paranormal subjects, making it an ideal follow-up for Ancient Aliens enthusiasts. The episodic investigations and thematic consistency make it perfect for those captivated by Ancient Aliens' exploration of ancient astronaut theories.

    Premise:

    In Search of Aliens (H2, 2014) is an American documentary television series. The program follows Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, an ancient alien astronaut hypothesist and the leading contributor to the television show Ancient Aliens, as he presents hypotheses and possible evidence of extraterrestrial life, mythological creatures, and other paranormal subjects.
    • Actors: Giorgio Tsoukalos
    • Premiered: 2014
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation
    • Photo:
      • Star Trek: The Next Generation

    Why you'll like this show:

    Journeying through the galaxy while fostering peace in the 24th century, Star Trek: The Next Generation explores advanced alien civilizations and their impacts, echoing the speculative history and cosmic curiosity found in Ancient Aliens. The show's expansive view of extraterrestrial life and advanced technologies resonates with those deeply interested in what lies beyond our world, much like Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    The crew of the starship USS Enterprise explores the galaxy and fosters peace in the 24th century.
    • Actors: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden
    • Premiered: September 28, 1987
  • Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey
    • Photo:
      • Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey

    Why you'll like this show:

    An awe-inspiring exploration of the universe, Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey provides a breathtaking journey through humanity's quest for knowledge, mirroring the blend of cosmic wonder and scientific inquiry seen in Ancient Aliens. Its expansive curiosity about space resonates with those fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos, making it a compelling watch for Ancient Aliens fans.

    Premise:

    Exploring the universe through stories of humankind's quest for knowledge.
    • Actors: Christopher Emerson, Keythe Farley, Piotr Michael, Enn Reitel, Stoney Emshwiller
    • Premiered: March 9, 2014
  • Futurama
    6
    6 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Blending humor with futuristic and alien themes, Futurama offers a lighter, animated take on the exploration of space and advanced civilizations, resonating with the imaginative speculative nature found in Ancient Aliens. The show's mix of comedy and cosmic curiosity makes it an enjoyable diversion for those who appreciate both humor and thought-provoking themes.

    Premise:

    Accidentally frozen, a pizza delivery boy wakes up 1,000 years in the future.
    • Actors: Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio, Tress MacNeille, Maurice LaMarche
    • Premiered: March 28, 1999
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    • Bender
      1Bender
      1,406 Votes
    • Fry
      2Fry
      1,194 Votes
    • Zoidberg
      3Zoidberg
      1,290 Votes
  • UFOs Declassified
    • Photo:
      • user uploaded image
    7
    8 votes

    UFOs Declassified

    Why you'll like this show:

    Incorporating declassified CIA and US Air Force documents about notable UFO reports, UFOs Declassified explores real-life government cover-ups and UFO sightings, making it a perfect companion for those who enjoy the investigative elements of Ancient Aliens. The factual investigation into extraterrestrial evidence aligns closely with the speculative themes presented in Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    UFOs Declassified (History, 2015) is a Canadian documentary television series. The program features declassified CIA and US Air Force documents pertaining to notable UFO reports.
    • Actors: Brad Cartner, Leslie Kean, Nick Pope, Louis Adams
    • Premiered: 2015
  • 8
    8 votes

    Ancient Discoveries

    Why you'll like this show:

    Focusing on ancient technologies and their modern counterparts, Ancient Discoveries goes into the technological feats of our ancestors, challenging conventional historical narratives much like Ancient Aliens does. By providing an investigative approach to ancient achievements, this series aligns well with the themes presented in Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    Ancient Discoveries was a television series that premiered on December 21, 2003, on The History Channel. The program focused on ancient technologies. The show's theme was that many inventions which are thought to be modern have ancient roots or in some cases may have been lost and then reinvented. The program was a follow-up to a special originally broadcast in 2005 which focused on technologies from the Ancient Roman era such as the Antikythera mechanism and inventors such as Heron of Alexandria. Episodes of the regular series expanded to cover other areas such as Egypt, China and East Asia, and the Islamic world. Ancient Discoveries was made for The History Channel by Wild Dream Films based in Cardiff in the UK. Much of the filming was on location across the world. The series used contributions from archaeologists and other experts, footage of historical sites and artifacts, computer generated reconstructions, and dramatized reconstructions along with experiments and tests on reconstructed artifacts.
    • Actors: Phil Crowley, Christopher Kelly, Sean Barrett
    • Premiered: 2003
  • 9
    10 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Investigating UFO cases around the world, UFO Hunters combines journalistic scrutiny with a focus on extraterrestrial encounters, mirroring the aspects explored in Ancient Aliens and making it an ideal show for those who enjoy explorations into unexplained aerial phenomena. The detailed investigations align closely with the UFO and alien life theories prevalent in Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    Bill Birnes, Ted Acworth and Pat Uskert investigate UFO cases around the world.
    • Actors: William J. Birnes, Patrick Uskert, Ted Acworth
    • Premiered: January 30, 2008
  • 3rd Rock from the Sun
    • Photo:
      • 3rd Rock From the Sun

    Why you'll like this show:

    While it is a sitcom, 3rd Rock from the Sun humorously tackles the concept of aliens studying Earth, providing a lighthearted yet engaging narrative for those intrigued by extraterrestrial elements in Ancient Aliens. The comedic portrayal of alien interactions offers a different but relevant perspective on the theme of aliens integrating into human society.

    Premise:

    Members of an alien expedition assume human shapes to study Earth.
    • Actors: John Lithgow, Jane Curtin, Kristen Johnston, French Stewart, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
    • Premiered: January 9, 1996
  • Solar Opposites
    • Photo:
      • Solar Opposites

    Why you'll like this show:

    Despite being an animated comedy, Solar Opposites explores themes of alien life and societal integration, making it a quirky yet entertaining take on the extraterrestrial inquiries seen in Ancient Aliens. The humor and imaginative storytelling offer a fresh perspective for those interested in otherworldly themes.

    Premise:

    Now that alien mission partners Terry and Korvo are married, the team is focused on family values.
    • Actors: Dan Stevens, Thomas Middleditch, Sean Giambrone, Mary Mack, Justin Roiland
    • Premiered: May 8, 2020
  • Why you'll like this show:

    Blending UFO theories with authentic historical events, Project Blue Book investigates historical UFO encounters and government concealments, mirroring Ancient Aliens' approach to mixing factual investigation with speculative storytelling. This makes it a compelling series for those fascinated by historical mysteries entwined with extraterrestrial elements.

    Premise:

    UFO theories are blended with authentic historical events.
    • Actors: Aidan Gillen, Michael Malarkey, Neal McDonough, Michael Harney, Laura Mennell
    • Premiered: January 8, 2019
  • UFO Files
    • Photo:
      • UFO Files
    13
    4 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Examining evidence of possible alien encounters, UFO Files provides detailed explorations of sightings and extraterrestrial interactions, complementing the themes of Ancient Aliens. The investigative style and focus on UFO phenomena align perfectly with the speculative investigations presented in Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    Examining evidence of possible alien encounters.
    • Actors: Burton Richardson, Stanton Friedman, William J. Birnes
    • Premiered: July 5, 2004
  • Is It Real?
    • Photo:
      • Is It Real?
    14
    4 votes

    Is It Real?

    Why you'll like this show:

    Investigating various paranormal and unexplained events, Is It Real? offers scientific scrutiny on mythical and legendary phenomena, much like Ancient Aliens' exploration of historical mysteries. This engaging and informative approach to demystifying extraordinary claims aligns well with the investigative curiosity of Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    Investigation of paranormal events.
    • Actors: Ian Gregory, Will Lyman
    • Premiered: April 25, 2005
  • Cowboy Bebop
    15
    5 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Set in the distant future amidst diverse planets and cultures, Cowboy Bebop follows bounty hunters navigating the cosmos, blending action, humor, and poignant character development. This masterful exploration of space and advanced civilizations complements the cosmic themes and speculative storytelling found in Ancient Aliens.

    Premise:

    Set in the distant future, Cowboy Bebop unfolds across a universe teeming with diverse planets and cultures. This acclaimed anime series, which has garnered numerous awards, revolves around a group of bounty hunters led by Spike Spiegel (voiced by Steve Blum), who navigate the cosmos aboard the spaceship Bebop. As they pursue some of the galaxy's most nefarious criminals, viewers are treated to a masterful blend of action, humor, and poignant character development. The show's distinctive visual style, complemented by a memorable jazz-infused soundtrack, makes for an unforgettable journey through space that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
    • Actors: John Cho, Alex Hassell, Daniella Pineda
    • Premiered: November 19, 2021
  • Doctor Who
    16
    7 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Traveling through time and space to battle injustice across the universe, Doctor Who frequently encounters ancient and advanced civilizations, resonating with the speculative exploration of extraterrestrial influences seen in Ancient Aliens. The show's sci-fi adventures and time-travel elements offer a captivating narrative for those intrigued by the unknown.

    Premise:

    An eccentric Time Lord travels through time and space to battle injustice across the universe.
    • Actors: Jodie Whittaker, Mandip Gill, John Bishop, Tosin Cole, Bradley Walsh
    • Premiered: March 26, 2005
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    • Sarah Jane Smith
      1Sarah Jane Smith
      9,116 Votes
    • Donna Noble
      2Donna Noble
      11,554 Votes
    • Wilfred Mott
      3Wilfred Mott
      6,185 Votes
  • Why you'll like this show:

    Investigating strange and unknown phenomena, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. combines action with speculative science, mirroring the investigative spirit and supernatural elements present in Ancient Aliens. The show's focus on uncovering mysteries offers an action-packed yet intellectually stimulating look into the unknown.

    Premise:

    A group of highly trained S.H.I.E.L.D. agents investigates the strange and unknown.
    • Actors: Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, Iain De Caestecker
    • Premiered: September 24, 2013
    What to Watch If You Love 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.'See all
    • Agent Carter
      1Agent Carter
      142 Votes
    • Avengers Franchise
      2Avengers Franchise
      79 Votes
    • Iron Man Franchise
      3Iron Man Franchise
      62 Votes
  • 18
    3 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Examining the wonders and mysteries of the natural world, Planet Earth showcases breathtaking visuals and in-depth looks at Earth's biodiversity, creating a sense of awe and discovery that aligns with the exploration of ancient mysteries found in Ancient Aliens. The informative and visually stunning series provides a compelling watch for those fascinated by nature and its secrets.

    Premise:

    The planet and its wildlife.
    • Actors: David Attenborough, Sigourney Weaver, Thomas Anguti Johnston
    • Premiered: March 5, 2006
  • Lost
    19
    3 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Encountering supernatural and unexplained phenomena, the survivors in Lost navigate a mysterious desert island, with the show's suspense-filled storytelling echoing the narrative intrigue of Ancient Aliens. The exploration of complex, enigmatic events makes it appealing to those who enjoy unraveling mysterious tales.

    Premise:

    Survivors of a plane crash struggle for survival on a desert island.
    • Actors: Naveen Andrews, Nestor Carbonell, Emilie de Ravin, Michael Emerson, Jeff Fahey
    • Premiered: September 22, 2004
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    • Desmond Hume
      1Desmond Hume
      6,227 Votes
    • James "Sawyer" Ford
      2James "Sawyer" Ford
      6,610 Votes
    • Hugo "Hurley" Reyes
      3Hugo "Hurley" Reyes
      5,314 Votes
  • Why you'll like this show:

    Unraveling government conspiracies and supernatural forces in a small Midwestern town, Stranger Things investigates unexplained events with a nostalgic 80s twist, blending sci-fi and mystery themes that complement the speculative history and paranormal investigations of Ancient Aliens. It provides a similarly engaging narrative for those who love enigmatic storytelling.

    Premise:

    Mysteries unravel in a small Midwestern town involving supernatural forces.
    • Actors: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo
    • Premiered: July 15, 2016
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    • Dustin Henderson
      1Dustin Henderson
      5,863 Votes
    • Steve Harrington
      2Steve Harrington
      6,449 Votes
    • Jim Hopper
      3Jim Hopper
      5,174 Votes
  • Invader Zim
    • Photo:
      • Invader Zim
    21
    3 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Focusing on an alien attempting to understand Earth, Invader Zim humorously explores extraterrestrial life and integration, providing a darkly comedic portrayal that complements the themes of alien interactions discussed in Ancient Aliens. The playful yet relevant perspective on otherworldly beings offers an enjoyable take for those intrigued by such narratives.

    Premise:

    ZIM, an alien from the planet Irk, comes to earth and attends elementary school.
    • Actors: Richard Steven Horvitz, Rosearik Rikki Simons, Andy Berman, Joie Marlowe
    • Premiered: April 15, 2000
    The Best Invader Zim CharactersSee all
    • GIR
      1GIR
      172 Votes
    • Zim
      2Zim
      180 Votes
    • Dib
      3Dib
      140 Votes
  • Firefly
    • Photo:
      • Firefly
    22
    3 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Exploring space travel and cosmic conflicts, Firefly blends sci-fi and western elements, depicting advanced civilizations and spacefaring adventures that resonate with the speculative storytelling of Ancient Aliens. The adventurous spirit and complex narrative provide a thrilling exploration of extraterrestrial themes.

    Premise:

    The crew of a small transport ship experience a cosmic civil war.
    • Actors: Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Sean Maher, Adam Baldwin
    • Premiered: September 20, 2002
  • 23
    4 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Through comedic reenactments of real historical events told by intoxicated narrators, Drunk History offers a humorous yet informative take on history, making it appealing to those who enjoy alternative perspectives on historical narratives, akin to what is presented in Ancient Aliens. The show's unique approach to retelling history adds a lighthearted charm while still offering insights.

    Premise:

    Actors passionately re-enact rich histories, told by drunken people.
    • Actors: Derek Waters, Bennie Arthur, Craig Cackowski
    • Premiered: July 9, 2013
  • Why you'll like this show:

    Venturing into unexplained anomalies and occurrences in space exploration, NASA’s Unexplained Files uses real NASA footage and scientific investigations, aligning closely with the investigative curiosity and exploration of unknowns in Ancient Aliens. This factual basis for exploring space mysteries makes it a compelling series for those intrigued by cosmic enigmas.

    Premise:

    Some things are better left to science for an explanation.
    • Premiered: March 2, 2014
  • Shock Docs
    • Photo:
      • Shock Docs
    25
    1 votes

    Why you'll like this show:

    Investigating terrifying paranormal encounters, Shock Docs uses dramatized reenactments to bring eerie and mysterious tales to life, making it a great companion for those who enjoy the eerie and speculative storytelling style of Ancient Aliens. The approach to exploring paranormal stories offers similar intrigue and fascination for the mysterious and the unexplained.

    Premise:

    A fresh look at terrifying tales of paranormal encounters.
    • Premiered: September 7, 2020