The American Equivalent to Doctor Who

The popular British science fiction series Doctor Who has captured the hearts of fans around the world. When it comes to finding an American equivalent that captures the essence of this beloved show, there are a few contenders, with The X-Files and Star Trek standing out as noteworthy comparisons.

Comparing Doctor Who and The X-Files

One of the most frequently mentioned equivalents to Doctor Who is the long-running American TV series The X-Files. Both shows blend elements of science fiction with mystery and have developed dedicated fan followings. The X-Files follows FBI specialists Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate strange occurrences, government conspiracies, and encounters with extraterrestrial beings. While Doctor Who also delves into these themes, it has a unique storytelling format that includes time travel and character regeneration, which sets it apart from The X-Files.

One fan even drew parallels between Doctor Who and Rick and Morty, suggesting that the structure of Rick and Morty reflects some aspects of Doctor Who. The show features an old man and his grandson, with occasional references to a "Citadel of Ricks," hinting at a complex and interconnected universe. Rick also owns a time travel device, similar to the TARDIS in Doctor Who. However, these comparisons fall short in capturing the full essence of Doctor Who's unique storytelling format.

The Star Trek Connection

When it comes to finding the closest American equivalent to Doctor Who, many viewers turn to Star Trek. Star Trek shares a similar long-standing franchise with Doctor Who. It has been running since the 1960s and continues to thrive with ongoing television series and movies. The humanist outlook and exploration of the universe in Star Trek bear similarities to the broader themes in Doctor Who. However, Doctor Who uniquely incorporates time travel and character regeneration into its narrative, which differentiates it from the Star Trek universe.

Star Trek, with its focus on space exploration, technological advancements, and moral dilemmas, provides a suitable framework for a science fiction series in the American context. It offers a parallel in terms of its long-running nature and complex storylines, but it does not fully capture the time travel and regeneration elements that are central to Doctor Who.

Other Options

While The X-Files and Star Trek are often mentioned as American equivalents to Doctor Who, these comparisons have their limitations. The Doctor Who experience is unique in many ways, and no single American show can replicate the entire package. Some viewers feel that the nearest equivalent in terms of a long-running science fiction franchise would be Star Trek. However, if the show had to focus on a time traveler visiting different times and places, Quantum Leap might be a closer match. On the other hand, for those looking for a series that starts in the 1960s and continues up to the present day with a humanistic outlook, Star Trek remains the most obvious choice.