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12 Political Thriller Shows Like Andor For Fans Of The Star Wars Universe

February 24, 2023
shows like andor

Andor is a popular sci-fi television show based on the Star Wars universe that recently debuted on Disney+ and has received incredible praise and great reviews. If you enjoyed watching Andor and are looking for similar recommendations, we have created a list of shows like Andor you might appreciate. The show is set in a futuristic world and follows the journey of a team of rebels as they fight against a powerful empire. 

Andor has become a popular show due to its captivating storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning visuals. The main protagonist, Andor, is a complex and likeable character that viewers can relate to and root for. The show is also known for its impressive special effects, making the world of Star Wars come to life on the screen.

List of TV Shows Like Andor

  1. Star Wars: The Clone Wars
  2. Narcos: Mexico
  3. Battlestar Galactica 
  4. Firefly 
  5. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine 
  6. Babylon 5 
  7. Obi-Wan Kenobi
  8. The Expanse 
  9. The Witcher 
  10. Altered Carbon 
  11. Sense8 
  12. Killjoys 

1. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)

Star Wars: The Clone Wars is an animated sci-fi series set in the Star Wars universe. The show takes place during the Clone Wars, a conflict between the Galactic Republic and the Confederacy of Independent Systems. The series follows the adventures of Jedi knights, clone troopers, and other characters as they face off against the forces of the dark side and strive to bring peace to the galaxy.

With its exciting action sequences, compelling characters, and intricate storyline, Star Wars: The Clone Wars has captivated audiences of all ages and cemented its place as one of the most beloved entries in the Star Wars franchise making it a perfect option for fans of shows like Andor.

2. Narcos: Mexico (2018)

Narcos: Mexico is a crime drama television series spin-off of the popular Netflix series Narcos and focuses on the rise of the drug trade in Mexico. The series explores the inner workings of the drug cartels, the corrupt government officials who enable them, and the law enforcement agents trying to bring them down.

With its intense action, intricate storylines, and strong performances by its cast, Narcos: Mexico has become a popular hit with audiences worldwide. The show provides a compelling look at one of the world’s most dangerous and lucrative industries and offers a glimpse into the lives of those caught up in its dangerous and often deadly web. As a fan of shows like Andor, you will be sure to enjoy this one as well!

3. Battlestar Galactica (2004)

Battlestar Galactica is a classic science fiction television series that originally aired from 1978 to 1979. This show is a reboot set in a distant star system where humanity is at war with the mechanical Cylons, a race of robots that have attacked and nearly wiped out the human race.

The surviving members of the human fleet, led by the Battlestar Galactica, must navigate the dangers of space and find a new home while avoiding the pursuing Cylons. With its intense action, thought-provoking themes, and complex characters, Battlestar Galactica remains a seminal work in the sci-fi genre which is why it should a part of your list of series like Andor as well.

Also Read: Shows like The Last Of Us

4. Firefly (2002)

Firefly is a space western TV series that was created by Joss Whedon and aired in 2002. Despite its short run, the show has garnered a huge following and has since become a cult classic. The show features a diverse cast of characters who are struggling to survive in a universe where they don’t always fit in.

The show’s mix of humor, action and drama make it a great watch, while its deep characters and intricate storyline keep viewers coming back for more. The show’s themes of hope, freedom, and friendship are timeless, and its sharp writing and tight direction make it stand out in the sci-fi genre. If you have yet to see it, Firefly is a must-watch for anyone who wants to watch shows like Andor.

5. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993)

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is a science fiction television series. It takes place in a space station orbiting the planet Bajor and follows the crew of the USS Defiant as they encounter various alien species and navigate political intrigue. Unlike previous Star Trek series, Deep Space Nine has a darker tone and tackles complex themes such as religion, war, and betrayal.

Similar to a shows like Andor, Deep Space Nine is widely acclaimed for its character development and social commentary. With its diverse cast, intricate storylines, and moral dilemmas, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is considered one of the best entries in the Star Trek franchise.

6. Babylon 5 (1994)

The Sci-fi Babylon 5 sets itself in the 23rd century. The story revolves around a space station named Babylon 5, located in a neutral corner of a galaxy that serves as a hub for interstellar diplomacy, trade, and conflict resolution. The show explores the political and personal relationships of the various races and nations that reside on the station, as well as their struggles for power and the consequences of their actions.

The overarching storyline follows Commander John Sheridan and his crew as they battle against threats from within and outside the station, including rogue telepaths, warring factions, and ancient beings. Babylon 5 is known for its intricate storytelling, rich characters, and its timeless appeal. For recommendations of shows like Andor, Babylon 5 will fit the bill.

7. Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)

Obi-Wan Kenobi is a Star Wars series that takes place 10 years after the events of Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. The show follows the journey of the legendary Jedi Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi, as he watches over the young Luke Skywalker on Tatooine while hiding from the Galactic Empire. The show also explores Obi-Wan’s past and his relationship with the evil Darth Vader, who was once his apprentice.

The series features intense lightsaber battles, thrilling action sequences, and mind-bending twists and turns as Obi-Wan navigates the dangerous landscape of Tatooine and confronts the evil forces that threaten the galaxy. This show is a must-watch for fans of series like Andor and promises to be an epic adventure for viewers of all ages.

8. The Expanse (2015)

The sci-fi tv shows The Expanse is based on a series of novels by James S. A. Corey. Set in the future, humanity has colonized the Solar System, and tensions are high between Earth, Mars, and the Belt. The series follows a United Nations executive and a police detective as they uncover a vast conspiracy that threatens the fragile balance of power in the system.

The show features intricate political machinations while exploring themes of identity, class, and the dangers of power. Similar to shows like Andor, this show has stunning visuals and great characters. The Expanse is a thrilling journey of a richly imagined future world.

9. The Witcher (2019)

The Witcher is a fantasy drama based on the book series of the same name by Andrzej Sapkowski. The show follows Geralt of Rivia, a mutated monster hunter, as he journeys through a world filled with magic, mythical creatures, and political turmoil. Along the way, he encounters powerful sorcerers, cunning politicians, and a mysterious young woman, Ciri, who holds the key to saving the world.

The world-building is top-notch, and the action scenes are quite entrtaining. The characters are dynamic with engaging relationships. It has become a favourite for many which is why The Witcher is a must-watch for fans of the fantasy genre series like Andor.

10. Altered Carbon (2018)

Altered Carbon is a sci-fi series in a dystopian future where death is no longer permanent. Instead, people’s consciousness can be stored in a stack, a small device implanted in the back of their neck, and can be transferred into new bodies. The show revolves around Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier who is brought back to life to solve the murder of a wealthy man who had himself transferred into a new body.

The series explores themes of immortality, identity, and the consequences of technology. With its intense action, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, Altered Carbon is a great pick for shows similar to Andor. If you’ve already seen this it cool sci-fi show, check out our list of shows like Altered Carbon.

11. Sense8 (2015)

Sense8 explores the concept of collective consciousness. The show follows 8 strangers from different parts of the world who suddenly become emotionally and mentally connected, sharing each other’s thoughts, feelings, and abilities. The main characters are called “sensates,” They soon discover that they have been brought together for a greater purpose.

The show is filled with intense action, thrilling drama, and a heartwarming message of unity and acceptance. With its diverse cast and unique storytelling, Sense8 is another great option for a Tv series like Andor.

12. Killjoys (2015)

Set in a distant future where humanity has colonized multiple planets, Killjoys’ main characters are a group of bounty hunters known as the titular ‘Killjoys’. They track down the most dangerous criminals and fugitives in the galaxy.

Form loyalty, friendship, to survival in a dangerous and unpredictable world, the show has it all. Killjoys is an intelligent, charming, and a witty drama series. So whether you’re looking for a fun and exciting show like Andor to watch on a weekend or am intense story to delve into, Killjoys is a perfect choice.

Honorable Mentions

Here are a few shows that didn’t make a list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Dark Matter 
  2. The 100
  3. The Mandalorian
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When Lost aired over a decade ago, its successful narrative created a pop culture impact and changed the landscape of television. If you are a fan and want to watch shows like Lost then you can have a look at this list we made just for you.

Lost

The hugely successful television series Lost aired in 2004. The premise, as we know, deals with a group of people surviving a commercial passenger plane crash on a remote island. The show masterfully explores supernatural and sci-fi elements on this mysterious south Pacific island. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTu8iDynwNc

The use of cliffhangers at the end of each episode of Lost kept the viewers on the edge of their seats, desperately craving for the next episode to come. Even though it's a large ensemble cast, most of the characters receive a justifiable personal arch. Lost was inspired by the movie Castaway and became one of the most expensive pilots to be shot at the time! Lost continues to be appreciated for its originality in storytelling and dynamic character arcs. 

List of TV Shows Like Lost

  1. The Leftovers
  2. Manifest
  3. Lost Room
  4. Twin Peaks
  5. The Prisoners
  6. Battlestar Galactica
  7. The New People
  8. Flight 29 Down
  9. Fringe
  10. Alcatraz
  11. Under the Dome
  12. Dark

1. The Leftovers (2014)

IMDB ratings: 8.3/10

Cast: Carrie Coon, Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman and Margaret Qualley

Creator: Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta

The director of Lost, Damon Lindel also created a supernatural drama series called The Leftovers. The show begins 3 years after an unexplainable global event called ‘Sudden Departure’  where almost 2 per cent of the population, nearly 140 million people, disappear. The Leftovers isn't about WHY people are gone, it's about how the ones who remain dealt with their loss, people often try to comfort themselves with dreams, angels, gods, or even death.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLT3YUALJno&t=8s

The Leftovers will leave you with so many questions but beyond words, you have to feel it and savour its unanswered questions to find peace. The Leftovers is an incredible television series that starts incredibly well but loses its way by the series's end. I have to say though, Carrie Coon has brilliant moments in the end. The Leftovers is so weird, fragmented and nonsensical at times that it reminds me of Lost. If you are looking for shows like Lost, I recommend that you give The Leftovers a try.

2. Manifest  (2018) 

IMDB ratings: 7.1/10

Cast: Melissa Roxburgh, Josh Dallas and J.R. Ramirez 

Creator: Jeff Rake


The Manifest is a supernatural drama show about a bunch of people who discover that they lost 5 years of their lives when they landed in New York after their aeroplane faced severe turbulence. All the people on the plane were presumed to be dead. Now, these people have to find a way to adjust themselves to a new life around their loved ones. Mild spoiler! They learn their loved ones and the rest of society is not as they left it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1hNAIzkQWY

I found that the show’s premise was very intriguing and the actors give a very convincing performance. The narrative details of the show, however, in my opinion, are a bit sloppy and inconsistent. The writers surely have room for improvement but their concept is incredibly thrilling. Every episode of Manifest keeps you on your toes. Manifest has completed 3 seasons up until now and continues to be on air. Manifest is a pretty good choice if you want to watch TV shows like Lost.

3. Lost Room (2006)

IMDB ratings: 8.1/10

Cast: Peter Krause, Julianna Margulies and Peter Jacobson

Creator: Christopher Leone, Laura Harkcom

This lesser-known show The Lost Room is an American Sci-fi television miniseries which only had 3 episodes of 90 mins each and no follow-up seasons. The show was based on a very unique idea where the room in question (known as the ‘Lost Room’) and the objects in the said room had supernatural powers. This strange room is set in a 1960s motel along the iconic U.S. Route 66. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfWrECLnFYU

One day the protagonist (Peter Krause) Joe Miller’s daughter disappears inside the room. Joe, with the help of objects present in the room, tries to find his daughter Anna (Elle Fanning). The story of Lost Room was intensely engaging. I found the direction and the actor’s performances to be absolutely brilliant. It baffles me that the creators did not return to make another short season within the same concept. If you have been searching for TV series like Lost then I can assure you that Lost Room will be worth a watch.

4. Twins Peaks (1990) 

IMDB ratings: 8.8/10

Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Mädchen Amick, Sherilyn Fenn and David Lynch

Creator: David Lynch

David Lynch, the well-known director of weird and captivating films such as Eraserhead and Blue Velvet created an iconic show called Twin Peaks. It is a hauntingly eccentric show about the investigation of the mysterious murder of a small-town homecoming queen named Laura Palmer. Believe me, as odd as the show may seem at first, you will grow to love it, after all, it is considered to be one of the best mystery shows ever created. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwn9ou_nf-I

With the mysteries, the supernatural elements and the list of bizarre characters, Twin Peaks has it all. In my opinion, the cinematography of the show was truly ahead of its time. Kyle’s Dale Cooper was especially entertaining. Twin Peaks’ experimental formula of the satirical soap opera is extremely unsettling yet rewarding to watch, I must warn you, it’s not for the faint-hearted!  If you are in search of TV shows like Lost then Twin Peaks won’t disappoint you.

The Prisoners (1967)

IMDB ratings: 8.5/10

Cast: Patrick McGoohan, Angelo Muscat and Geroge Markstien

Creator: Patrick McGoohan


The Prisoner centres around an unnamed British agent (Patrick McGoohan) who tries to flee his country after abruptly quitting his high-ranking government job. He is abducted and held captive in a strange ‘sea-side’ village that is isolated from the rest of the world. This village is a highly secure and monitored place filled with weird technology. There are only 17 episodes to this late 60s show but it manages to bring up such surreal surprises, it's sure to leave a great impact on the viewer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JrNr85fPms

The Prisoner’s unique concept influenced many popular shows including Lost. The creators of Lost even cited the show. I was very impressed by how ahead of its time The Prisoners proves to be. If you want to watch more shows similar to Lost the Prisoners should definitely be on your list.

6. Battlestar Galactica (2004)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Katee Sackhoff, Edward James Olmos and Tricia Helfer 

Creator: Glen A. Larson

The 2004 Battlestar Galactica is a reboot of the original 1978 miniseries of the same name. Do not be mistaken by the title, the show is not related to Star Trek.  Battlestar Galactica is set in the 7th millennium AD and follows Cylons, the robot enemy of humanity that resurfaces to destroy the 12 colonies of Mankind. Only a few survive and are able to escape on ships led by a powerful warship called Battlestar Galactica. Mankind struggles to fight the Cylons and work their own political agendas and disputes while finding their long-lost 13th colony Earth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnYsf2Yv8i8

The show is a dark, intense and gritty socio-political commentary with EPIC cinematic value. The script is especially clever and as a huge fan of sci-fi shows, this show ticks the boxes in all the right categories. When the show was released, it blew the viewers and critics away. As far as an obsessive and gripping story goes, Battlestar Galactica is one of the most similar to shows like Lost. 

7. The New People (1969)

IMDB ratings: 7.3/10

Cast: David Moses, Zooey hall and Tiffany Boiling

Creator: Larry Gordon Aaron Spelling

The New People is an American Tv series that aired only for 1 season and is focused on a couple of college students who survive a plane crash. The incident takes place while they were returning from a trip to Southeast Asia, their plane crashes on an island in the south of the Pacific ocean. 

By now this show must already be sounding a lot like Lost to you, and it surely is. The remaining group of people discover an unusual truth about the island: there’s an above-ground unused nuclear test site filled with supplies for the survivors. If you want to see more plane survival stories like Lost then The New People should definitely be on your list.

8. Flight 29 Down (2005)

IMDB ratings: 7.2/10

Cast: Allen Alvarado, Halle Hirsh and Corbin Bleu

Creator:  Stan Rowgow D. J. MacHale

The show Flight 29 Down is a drama series about a group of pre-teens/teens who are stranded on a South Pacific island after their plane crashes in a tropical storm while they were flying from an eco-adventure camping trip in Palau. The show is in many ways a younger version of the Adult-centred show Lost but sans the supernatural elements. I’d say that the show draws inspiration from the show The New People.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLeG0w3kL8k

Flight 29 Down uses the technique of a video diary as a plot device for the viewers to keep up with the story of these children. It was very engaging to watch young intelligent characters finding their way on the island. The first two seasons of the show are quite engaging but I seemed to lose interest in its 3rd and final season. Regardless, Flight 29 Down is a really good series to watch if you want to see TV shows like Lost.

9. Fringe (2008)

IMDB ratings: 8.4/10

Cast: Anna Torv, John Noble and Joshua Jackson

Creator: J. J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci

Fringe is a popular Sci-fi crime drama television series. It may seem like a standard procedural drama at first, but the show actually explores the parallel universe, alternate versions of people filled with crazy scientific experiments. I personally had a great time watching this show.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29bSzbqZ3xE

Fringe is actually inspired by shows like Lost, The X-files and The Twilight Zone. The 3 main characters of the show work with a special division called Fringe. There are so many brilliant twists and turns in Fringe that in my opinion, the show is at the top of its category. If you are searching for TV series like Lost, I strongly recommend you watch Fringe. 

10. Alcatraz (2012)

IMDB ratings: 6.9/10

Cast: Sarah Jones, George Garcia and Jonny Coyne 

Creator: Elizabeth Sarnoff, Steven Lilien, Bryan Wynbrandt

This American fiction show is based on the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary built on Alcatraz island in San Francisco Bay. The prison is now closed but once kept some of the most dangerous criminals of America. The show takes the liberty to make a show around the conspiracies of the place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V514ACIGp_k

In the interesting premise we see that under unknown circumstances, 256 inmates and 46 guards of the prison disappear without a trace. Later the disappeared ones start to appear one by one without ageing a day and resume their criminal activities with no realisation of disappearance. A special government unit is dedicated to finding and putting those criminals back in prison. If you are looking for mystery shows similar to Lost, try watching Alcatraz. 

11. Under the Dome (2013)

IMDB ratings: 6.5/10

Cast: Alexander Koch and Rachelle Lefevre

Creator: Stephen King

Based on a novel written by the sci-fi legend Stephen King, Under the Dome tells the story of the residents of the fictional small town called Chester's Mill, when a huge, transparent and indestructible dome suddenly cuts them off from the rest of the world. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Y5YeYrqUk

Now the trapped residents try to find a way to discover the truth, origin and purpose of these domes. This journey forces them into situations where they learn more about each other than they ever knew. Under the Dome may not be on the top of this list but it’s quite a decent watch if you’re looking for mystery shows similar to Lost. 

12. Dark (2017)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Louis Hofmann, Lisa Vicari and Gina Stiebitz

Creator: Baran bo Odar, Jantje Friese

The German-language Netflix series Dark is an interesting blend of Science fiction and Mystery. Truly a compelling and mind-bending story to watch. At the beginning of Dark, many children suspiciously start disappearing in the German town of Winden. The dark past of generational mysteries of 4 families living in the town namely, Kahnwald, Nielsen, Doppler, and Tiedemann is brought to light.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrwycJ08PSA

After the discovery of a wormhole, the lives of the families intertwine more than one can imagine. I believe every element of the show is top-notch, especially Dark’s cinematography, which is a TRUE masterpiece. If you are looking for TV series similar to Lost then the intense and gripping story of Dark is sure to keep you engrossed.

Honourable Mentions

Here are a few TV shows like Lost that didn’t make the list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Carnivale
  2. Yellowjackets
  3. Game of Thrones
  4. Black Mirror
  5. Flashforward
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