Merlin, the popular British fantasy-adventure drama television series that aired on BBC One from 2008 to 2012, captivated viewers with its imaginative retelling of the legend of the mythical wizard Merlin and his relationship with King Arthur. The show featured a mix of magic, medieval politics, action, and humor as Merlin navigated his destiny in Camelot while hiding his forbidden magical abilities. With its compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and creative use of mythology, Merlin has understandably left many fans looking for more shows that capture a similar tone, themes, and magical atmosphere.
Fantasy series with magic and medieval settings
For those drawn into Merlin’s world of sorcery and mythical medieval kingdoms, there are several shows that offer a similar backdrop of magical fantasy combined with medieval or ancient settings:
- Game of Thrones – HBO’s epic fantasy series is set in a sprawling medieval-inspired world with dragons, prophecy, and elements of magic. The show has intricate plotting, complex characters, and mature themes.
- The Witcher – This dark fantasy series on Netflix is based on novels and games about monster hunters who wield magic. It has a gritty, monster-filled medieval setting.
- Shadow and Bone – The Netflix adaptation of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse novels features warring kingdoms and magical factions in a fantasy world inspired by Tsarist Russia.
- The Legend of the Seeker – Adapted from Terry Goodkind’s Sword of Truth books, this syndicated fantasy series follows warriors and wizards on epic adventures in a medieval-esque world.
- Atlantis – The BBC fantasy-adventure show centers on a young man who finds himself transported to the lost city of Atlantis and embroiled in its mystical history.
Shows focused on legendary characters from mythology and history
Part of Merlin’s appeal is seeing a legendary figure from myth portrayed in a new light. Other series have also taken this narrative approach of reimagining famous historical and mythical figures:
- Leonardo – This historical fantasy drama focuses on a young Leonardo da Vinci and his friends solving mysteries and embarking on adventures in 15th century Italy.
- Rome – HBO’s epic drama explores the lives of both famous and common Romans set against the backdrop of the city’s transition from republic to empire.
- Knightfall – This History Channel drama looks at the medieval Knights Templar from the Crusades and includes historical figures like Pope Boniface VIII.
- Vikings – The History Channel series dramatizes the adventures of legendary Viking figures like Ragnar Lothbrok as they raid and explore distant lands.
- The Tudors – Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as King Henry VIII in this fictionalized Showtime drama about the monarch’s reign and wives.
Character-driven shows featuring magical elements
In addition to its creative plotlines, Merlin is driven by the growth of Merlin and Arthur’s friendship. Other shows also feature rich character development and bonds along with magic:
- Avatar: The Last Airbender – This animated Nickelodeon fantasy series centers on Aang, the young Avatar who can control all four elements, and his close group of friends.
- The Order – This Netflix horror drama focuses on college students inducted into a secret magical society with deadly consequences.
- His Dark Materials – The HBO fantasy series, based on Philip Pullman’s books, revolves around two children exploring parallel worlds and mystical connections.
- Teen Wolf – The MTV supernatural drama follows a teenage werewolf, Scott McCall, as he navigates high school and mystical threats.
- The Magicians – Syfy’s mature fantasy series centers on students learning magic at the mysterious Brakebills University.
Shows with humor and heart
While having plenty of drama, Merlin also had lighthearted and comedic moments. Other series that blend humor, emotion, and fantasy elements include:
- Buffy the Vampire Slayer – Joss Whedon’s cult classic series stars Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy, a teenager gifted with powers to fight supernatural foes while also dealing with the everyday struggles of growing up.
- Supernatural – The long-running CW drama follows the demon-hunting Winchester brothers on supernatural adventures across America.
- Being Human – This BBC supernatural series focuses on a ghost, vampire, and werewolf living together and trying to lead normal lives.
- The Letter for the King – Netflix’s young adult fantasy adventure centers on a new knight undertaking a perilous quest to deliver a secret letter.
- The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance – Netflix’s fantasy prequel to the Jim Henson film focuses on young Gelflings uncovering the dark secrets of their world.
Conclusion
Though no show can fully recapture the specific charm of Merlin, there are a number of series that offer similar delights for fantasy fans. From the medieval political intrigue of Game of Thrones to the reimagined legends of Leonardo to the magical coming-of-age tales like Avatar: The Last Airbender, viewers have options that provide pieces of Merlin’s formula. And shows like Buffy equally blend the fantastical with humor and heart. While it’s worth rewatching Merlin, these series can help fill the void while bringing viewers into some new, enchanting worlds.
Similar Series Comparison Table
Series | Key Similarities to Merlin |
---|---|
Game of Thrones | Medieval setting, fantasy elements, mythical lore, complex plotting and characters |
The Witcher | Dark medieval fantasy world, monster hunting, magical elements |
Shadow and Bone | Warring kingdoms, magical factions, fantasy worldbuilding |
Leonardo | Reimagines legendary historical figure with fictional adventures |
Avatar: The Last Airbender | Coming-of-age characters, emphasis on bonding and friendship, magical abilities |
Buffy the Vampire Slayer | Supernatural adventures blended with lighthearted humor and emotion |