Iconic Sci-Fi Series That Carried The Torch From The X-Files

Published April 5, 2026, 2:30 PM EDT

Megan Peters serves as ScreenRant's Deputy Editor for comics, anime, and manga. With over ten years in entertainment journalism, she honed her craft at ComicBook under CBS and Paramount after years of freelance writing. A seasoned video host and event reporter, Megan previously led podcasts like Anime Initiative and currently co-hosts That Pokemon Podcast. Reach her via social media or email for reviews and commentary. Read more on her profile.

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Evil

In 2019, creators Robert and Michelle King transitioned from The Good Wife to launch Evil, a supernatural drama drawing comparisons to The X-Files. The series blends procedural elements with eerie religious undertones, centering on three investigators united by the Catholic Church to tackle inexplicable cases nationwide. Like its predecessor, it leans into dynamic lead pairings—Scully’s skepticism mirrored by Dr. Kristen Bouchard’s logic, while David Acosta embodies Mulder’s curiosity. Ben Shakir adds levity, balancing the tension. Fans recognize echoes of The X-Files’ heart and narrative depth, cementing Evil’s cult status.

Supernatural intrigue defined The X-Files’ legacy, and Evil builds upon this foundation. Its procedural structure mirrors the original’s episodic suspense, yet expands into serialized arcs exploring faith and morality. The show’s exploration of demonic forces and global conspiracies reflects The X-Files’ fascination with the unknown, appealing to viewers craving cerebral horror.

Supernatural

This series channels The X-Files’ procedural spirit while introducing its own supernatural lens. Brothers Sam and Dean Winchester pursue paranormal threats alongside the Winchesters’ family legacy, evolving from episodic investigations to a broader cosmic struggle. Unlike The X-Files’ alien focus, Supernatural delves into angelic and demonic conflicts, offering fresh thematic territory. Its blend of action, humor, and existential dread resonates with fans seeking high-stakes, character-driven storytelling.

LOST

Emerging in 2004, LOST adopted The X-Files’ penchant for enigmatic narratives. Following crash survivors on a mysterious island, the show interweaves personal secrets with metaphysical mysteries. Its nonlinear storytelling and layered mythology mirror The X-Files’ approach, though with heightened emotional stakes. Themes of fate versus free will and hidden conspiracies deepen its appeal, solidifying its place among sci-fi’s greatest achievements.

Gravity Falls

Disney’s Gravity Falls pays homage to The X-Files through supernatural adventures in a quirky Oregon town. Siblings Mabel and Dipper uncover paranormal secrets with the help of eccentric uncle Stan, blending humor and mystery. While tonally lighter, its intricate plots and cryptic lore reflect The X-Files’ commitment to imaginative world-building, making it a standout in family-oriented sci-fi.

Millennium

As a spin-off from The X-Files universe, Millennium explores criminal conspiracies tied to the year 2000. Creator Chris Carter’s signature style—supernatural elements fused with government intrigue—echoes The X-Files’ DNA. Though short-lived, its atmospheric tension and conspiracy-driven plots highlight its kinship with the original series.

Warehouse 13

SyFy’s Warehouse 13 delivers paranormal investigations akin to The X-Files’ investigative ethos. Agents Pete and Myka hunt anomalous artifacts, uncovering mysteries ranging from time travel to identity theft. Its blend of humor and high-concept lore ensures it resonates with fans seeking cerebral, character-rich sci-fi.

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Thanks to its comedic flair and expansive scope, Warehouse 13 stands alongside The X-Files in legacy. It embraces similar themes—powerful organizations, historical cover-ups—but distinguishes itself through accessible storytelling.

Fringe

This Fox series channels The X-Files’ investigative spirit through FBI Agent Olivia Dunham’s journey in the Fringe Division. Collaborating with scientists Walter and Peter Bishop, Olivia navigates parallel universes and unexplained phenomena. Its mythos and pacing pay direct homage to The X-Files, cementing its status as a spiritual successor.