5 Fantasy Series So Old Your Parents Barely Remember Them
In their heyday, these shows were smash hits.
In the golden era of streaming television, there are dozens of fantasy shows to choose from. But if you've somehow watched them all, and you're craving something lesser-known, here are five shows from the 1990s that have almost fallen into oblivion.
Young Hercules (1998-1999, 1 season, 5.7 on IMDb)
Serving as a prequel to another show on this list, this semi-forgotten series followed the titular character in his youth as he learned to live with his god-like powers and figure out his destiny. In addition to exciting adventures, sword fights, and awesome classic VFX, Young Hercules stars Ryan Gosling, who is a joy to watch in his early years.
You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video.
Beastmaster (1999-2002, 3 seasons, 6.2 on IMDb)
Set in a mysterious ancient world, this series follows Daniel Goddard's Dar, the sole survivor of his tribe, as he and his friends Tao and Arina roam the land helping those in need. The world of Beastmaster is filled with danger and violence, and kindness is a foreign concept as tribes wage war against each other, and there doesn't seem to be a safe place. The show is quite visual, which makes it even more exciting.
It's available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (1995-1999, 6 seasons, 6.5 on IMDb)
This cult fantasy series, based on ancient Greco-Roman myths, was a huge hit when it first aired. Starring Kevin Sorbo and Michael Hurst, it followed the two friends on their many journeys as they battled beasts, bandits, and gods to help people in need. The show's gorgeous locations, detailed costumes, and masterful fights will have you hooked in no time.
It's available for streaming on Apple TV+.
Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001, 6 seasons, 6.7 on IMDb)
Unlike the other shows on our list, this one has a female lead who is both fierce and attractive. Despite being a spin-off of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Xena quickly surpassed its predecessor in popularity and left an indelible mark on pop culture, with many researchers studying it for scholarly purposes.
The show revolved around the titular character, who, unlike Hercules, has no famous mythical prototype, as she sought atonement for her past sins by helping the innocent with her brawling and fighting skills. Xena: Warrior Princess is available for streaming on Apple TV+.
The Odyssey (1997, miniseries, 7.0 on IMDb)
Based on Homer's epic poem of the same name, this two-part miniseries from Andrei Konchalovsky follows the titular character on his journey home from the Trojan War. Visually beautiful and narratively exciting, this show is a nice, quick weekend binge.
It's available on Amazon Prime Video.