Small screen sorcery
Magic on the small screen
magic tv showsEveryone channel surfs the TV Guide for a bit of magic. We’ve compiled a list of TV series about witchcraft and wizardry.
Out of This World 1987–1991
When a teenager learns her birth father is an alien, she realizes she possesses superhuman abilities. When she touches her fingertips together, time freezes. Maureen Flannigan plays Evie, who has magic powers but can’t use them to wreak vengeance on her cruel classmates.
Many of the sitcoms from that era are boring and no longer funny. This one featured some excellent performances and gags that are amusing even now. Given how long ago this is, Out of This World is a beautiful sitcom that was underappreciated in its day. Watching it with the family is worthwhile. Magical stuff!
The Umbrella Academy (2019-2023)
To continue defending the globe, a family of erstwhile kid heroes who have grown apart must come together.
The Umbrella Academy is such an amazing program that it ought to be enjoyable for a wide range of viewers! It appeals to fans of superheroes, action, sci-fi, and drama, so any fan of any of these genres would benefit from seeing it.
While the story and characters are being developed, it could start a little slowly for some people, but it only gets better over time. Season 2 is even better than Season 1. You may skip Season 3. Season 1 was fantastic, but season 2 outdid it by being even better. Season 3 was unwieldy, inconsistent, challenging to follow, and demanding to keep people interested. After such a long wait, it was disappointing. Just skip Season 3.
You’re Nothing Special (2022)
Rumor has it that Amaia has inherited her grandma’s magical talents. After moving from Barcelona to her mother’s boring town, Amaia realizes she may have inherited talents from her grandmother, who was thought to be a witch.
Supernatural Academy (2022)
To save Supernatural Academy and the world, the werewolf sisters — Dragon-marked — have to trust each other. Yes, it differs from Jaymin’s books, but it is still a fantastic performance. I’m hoping for a second season. Great representation and diversity without making a big deal out of it. It’s simply there. Pre-teen-friendly, and depending on their maturity level, suitable for younger children. This series was fantastic. I have waited long for the supernatural world to be brought to life on screen for my enjoyment. This series had me wanting more. I could not stop watching it and would watch it again. I hope and pray there will be a second season because, well, there can not be a second, third, or fourth season. There should be more animated series for us to enjoy, but this one will have to do for now because it exceeded my expectations.
Britannia (2017- )
The Roman Imperial Army returns to crush the Celtic heart of Britannia. Many people on here take the series and its historical accuracy far seriously, to the point where someone believes they are better knowledgeable than Roman historian Mary Beard (looking at you, Allen).
Ancient Britain was famous for its warrior queens (especially Cartimandua and Boudicca), who are mentioned in Tacitus. Please do your research and stop thinking you’re an expert because you’ve read Herodotus. Due to the migratory nature of the peoples from Sub-Saharan Africa and the plethora of reports about peoples below the desert, it is not unlikely that these people wanted to live in the prosperous North African provinces of the Roman Empire and took up military service with its lucrative benefits. In any case, it isn’t the purpose; the performance conveys the supposed mysticism and mystical Roman beliefs of Britain. It was viewed by Roman and Greek literature as the realm at the end of the earth, where abominations such as magic and human sacrifice took place.
Yes, the show deviates from certain historical facts. However, Claudius’ invasion was not extensively documented, and it still conveys internal turmoil and rivalry well, as well as the enigmatic presence of the druids in Celtic society. It’s sad how many people are pretending to be historians while watching a sky drama: the cast is good, some of the characters are likable, and the program has potential for its early days.
Hilda (2018)
The intrepid Hilda takes a pilgrimage to a bustling city, all the way from a wilderness full of elves. Hilda, a brave girl with blue hair, walks out of the forest into the town, where she meets new people and encounters fantastic adventures, magic, and potentially hazardous monsters.
The first episode was slow, but stick with it and watch the whole thing. If you do, you will discover why Hilda is receiving so many positive reviews. The animation is superb, and the character designs are endearing. The show is light-hearted, but surprisingly, they manage to maintain that tone while keeping the tension in the adventures.
Though it has lessons to share about people and relationships, it does without being overly didactic to respect the audience’s right to form their own opinions.
Give it a try if you prefer carefully produced, character-driven storylines; you won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to additional seasons.
Titans (2018)
In this gritty take on “Teen Titans,” young heroes from around the DC Universe grow up.
I thought the first episode was a little slow, but I stuck with it and watched the whole thing. If you do, you will discover why it is receiving many positive reviews. The animation is superb, and the character designs are endearing. The show is light-hearted, but surprisingly, they manage to keep that tone while keeping the tension on the adventures.
Though it has lessons to share about people and relationships, it does without being overly didactic to respect the audience’s right to form their own opinions.
Give it a try if you prefer carefully produced, character-driven storylines; you won’t be disappointed.
The Bureau of Magical Things (2018)
Kyra learns of a magical world that secretly exists all around her. Teenage Kyra unintentionally stumbles onto an incredible world and acquires magical abilities; when a sudden threat materializes, she must rally fairies, elves, and humans to save everyone.
This TV show features inspiring role models for all ages and contains uplifting messages. The show is suitable for all ages and has a great plot so that the whole family may enjoy it, especially the kids. There is no smoking, drinking, or foul language. Kids will adore the pure joy, adventure, and magic presented. With fairies and elves that have magical abilities and who humorously get into trouble, this show transports you to a separate world of magic concealed among humans. This program merits praise and excellent ratings.
The Owl House (2020–2022)
A teenager befriends a rebellious witch after stumbling on a portal to a magical realm. A teenage human named Luz, who was unintentionally brought to the world of the Boiling Isles before going to summer camp, yearns to become a witch with the help of the disobedient Eda and the tiny demon King.
The art is charming, and the animation is fantastic—it reminds me of Hieronymus Bosch and Gravity Falls. Children who enjoy fantasy will enjoy the imaginative setting, and I’m sure some of them will wish they could go on adventures on the Boiling Isles themselves. All the episodes are filled with fantastic humor and have delightful stories.
This short fantasy adventure series would be most enjoyed by children, but adults will probably be able to laugh along with them. It’s pleasing to the eye.
Fate: The Winx Saga (2021- )
While attending a mysterious, magical boarding school, fairies learn to harness their mystical powers. A Winx Club live-action remake on Nickelodeon (2004). It follows Bloom as she gets used to life in the Otherworld and learns to control her potentially harmful magical abilities.
It is similar to The Vampire Diaries, but sadly not Winx. Though I adored the characters and their connection, I wouldn’t say I liked that Tecna and Flora were left out. The tale seemed disorganized, but not in a horrible way. Thus, I believe the program should have at least nine episodes thansix. Because the show has the potential to get better and better in a potential second season, you should watch it with an open mind. Yes, I did miss the song and the shiny objects, but in the final episode, we got what we desired (you know what): that the show could get better.
Shadow and Bone (2021- )
After she reveals a magical power, sinister forces plot against a young soldier. When mapmaker Alina Starkov, an orphan, unlocks an astonishing power that could alter the course of her war-torn world, evil forces conspire against her.
The performance is excellent, and the series is well-made (Ben Barnes is always worth a watch). Among the multitude of fantasy options available these days, one has an intriguing idea and an entirely new and imaginative setting.
Disenchantment (2018- )
Follow the misadventures of hard-drinking princess Bean and her feisty elf companion Elfo. Princess Tiabeanie, sometimes known as “Bean,” is displeased with her upcoming planned wedding to Prince Merkimer. Then she encounters Elfo, an elf, and Luci, a demon, and things start to get thrilling and perilous.
The Magicians (2015 – 2020)
Welcome to Brakebill’s University, an exclusive and magical school meant to teach its students everything they need to know about magic.
Despite not knowing it, the young magics students enrolled at Brakebills believed there was a magical realm out there where wizards could fly through the air and cast spells. The Magicians then discovered that these beliefs were valid when they learned that magic exists. Now, they’re trying to learn how to use their newfound powers so they can protect the natural magical realm from evil creatures.
Charmed (2018 – 2022)
The TV program Charmed focuses on the lives of three sisters who learn they are strong witches following the terrible loss of their mother. This new version of Charmed will always be a cult favorite among fans of the supernatural.
The CW’s reboot stars two women, played by actresses Alyssa Milano (Maggie) and Rose McGowan (Mel). They use their new supernatural abilities to save people from evil demons, ghosts, and other dark forces. They must learn to trust each other and become a team to fight off these threats.
Once upon A Time (2011 – 2018)
ABC’s “Once Upon A Time” takes a deep look at the magical side of life, drawing upon classic stories from around the world.
They don’t realize it, but they’ve been transported into the real world – our world, Is – and stolen of their memories by the evil queen Regina. Only Emma, who is the main protagonist and child of Snow White and Prince Charles, has the power to break the curse. She can rescue them from her clutches.
WandaVision (2021)
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a phrase that needs little introduction because, since its beginnings in 2008, it has brought us stories of such superheroes as Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America, to namea few. While we usually associate MCU with films, Marvel Studios is quickly moving into the TV world. They started their foray into the world by creating WandaVision.
What makes WandaVision special is that it explores the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) from different perspectives. It takes place in different time periods, and each episode features its own set of characters, settings, and storylines.
Cursed (2020)
According to the Arthurian legend, King Arthur was betrayed by his closest friend and ally, Lancelot. He then went into exile for years until he returned to England to reclaim his throne. When King Arthur returned, the king found that the kingdom had been taken from him. To regain his rightful place, he must seek out the legendary Sword Excalibur and use its power to defeat the evil Mordred.
As Nimue learns the true powers of Excalibur, she finds herself caught between two worlds: one where she has no choice but to wield the blade and another where she must choose whether to use its power for good or evil.
Shadowhunters (2016 – 2019)
There’s a group of people called Shadowhunters who are charged with searching for and destroying evil beings called “demon gods” while remaining invisible to ordinary mortals.
Each warrior has a weapon of choice and a collection of special abilities. They join together to fight against evil forces.
Merlin (2008 – 2012)
Contrary to the popular belief that pictures Merlin as an old man, BBC One’s ‘Merlin’ reimagines him as an up-and-coming young contemporary to the future King Arthur.
Merlin is compelled to conceal his magical abilities from King Uther Pendragon because magic has been banned in Camelot. However, he eventually learns he must help Arthur, who in turn becomes destined to unify England and restore magic to the land. As they journey together, the two friends grow closer and learn to trust one another.
The Shannara Chronicles (2016 – 2017)
There are always demons, but they’renot powerful enough to overcome magic. Wil Ohmsford was the last of his kind, a descendant of the ancient Shannarans who were born with magical powers.
They’re determined to save the ancient tree called Ellcrys, which is the only thing preventing all the exiled demon hordes from returning to the Four Lands.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018 – 2020)
If you haven’t seen the original Archie comic books or the late 90’s TV show, then you might not know there’s been an animated series based on them for years now. However, this Netflix magic show remake is anything but light as it focuses on the darker side of witchcraft.
Sabrina is a teenage girl who, after deciding to embrace her magical abilities fully, must learn to juggle her friendships in both the natural and magical worlds.
Locke & (2020 – present)
After the Locke patriarch’s death, his wife and children are forced to live at his mansion, which they call “Keystone.” There, they encounter several strange keys that allow them to explore the mansion’s rooms and secret passageways.
One of those secrets involves a demon named Echo, who appears to be a beautiful young woman. He tries to seduce Bode, the youngest child of the Locke family, to get him to help her steal from his father.
Witches of East End (2013 – 2014)
Lifetime’s Witches of West End is loosely adapted from Melissa de la Croix’s books of the same title, and the TV show closely follows the plotline.
It follows three sisters who discover their magical heritage after an encounter with witches. They must use their powers to save their hometown from evil.
The Order (2019 – 2020)
Jack Morton seems like your average college freshman at Belgrave College, but he has some dark secrets hidden beneath that façade. His goal is to avenge his mother’s murder, and he joins the secretive Hermetic Order of the Black Rose — an order that teaches its members to use magic.
They haven’t received any attention from the outside world, but now they’re invited to join a secret society. As they get deeper inside the organization, they discover an ancient rivalry between people who practice magic and lycanthropes.
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, (2015)
In the alternate history scenario of the BBC show “Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrel,” the art of magic was once widely practiced throughout England but had since fallen into disuse. Mr. Norrell, who was an eccentric scholar, decided to revive the lost art of magic and went to London, where he resurrected the deceased wife of a high-ranking member of the British Parliament.
Elsewhere, Jonathan Swift becomes aware of his affinity for magic and sets out to make it respectable once again. Alongside Mr. Norrell, he creates a magical society known as Arcadia.
Good Witch, (2015 – 2021)
A direct spin-off and continuation of the original television movie franchise of the same name, the Hallmark Channel’s Good Witch follows the adventures of Cassie Nightingale, a charismatic young witch who lives at Grey House in the fictitious small village of Middleton.
Cassie’s powers include the ability to see through illusions and detect lies, a heightened sense of intuition and insight, and the ability to share these gifts with her teenage girl, Grace. Initially, the people of Middleton were hostile toward Cassie and her shop full of magic potions, but they eventually welcomed them into their town.
The Secret Circle (2011 – 2012)
One of the best TV series about magic was The CW’s The Secret Circle.
The story begins with Cassie Blake arriving in the small coastal town of Chance Harbor to continue living with her grandmother after her parents’ deaths. She soon discovers that she comes from a family of witch descendants and is the missing member of the town’s secret covenants. Now, Cassie must learn how to control her newfound abilities and fight against evil forces who seek to destroy her. Meanwhile, she deals with the inner turmoil of the covenants.
A Discovery of Witches (2018 – 2022)
Diana Bishop is a renowned scholar of history and chemistry who studies alchemy and science at Oxford. She’s an accomplished author and a practicing Wiccan priestess. But that’sone aspect of her life that she chose not to share publicly until now.
While at Oxford’s Bodleian Library, she comes across a strange book that leads her into the realm of witchcraft, demonology, and vampirism. She helps him unravel its mysteries and keep the peace between humans and creatures from beyond our mortal plane.
American Horror Story: Coven (2013 – 2014)
Coven is the third season of the critically acclaimed TV show American Horror Story. It features the witchy theme of “Witches.”
The descendants of the victims of the Salem witchcraft trials continue to live today, hiding their identities and abilities from the public. To protect them, Cordelia (Cordelia) Foxx operates an all-girl boarding school in New Orleans, Louisiana, where they’re trained to use their supernatural gifts for good than evil. When one of these girls is killed by the townsfolk, the witches decide to take action to protect themselves from the vampiric vampires who hunt them down.
The Witcher, (2019 – present)
The first two seasons of The Witcher follow Geralt (the titular character) through his adventures as he tries to save Ciri from an evil sorceress. At the conclusion of the second episode, he meets a young woman named Yennefer, who becomes his lover and later his wife.
Much of the show focuses on the titular character, Geralt of Rivia. He’s a monster-hunting professional whose skills have been augmented through a combination of magic and modern technology. Geralt’s fate is entwined with Princess Cirilla, who possesses magical abilities and is on a quest to reclaim her kingdom after the Niflheim Empire invaded it. , we watch the life of Yennefir of Venegard, a sorceress whose paths often cross with Geralt.
True Blood, (2008 – 2014)
HBO’s True Blood takes place in a fictional town called Bon Temps, Louisiana, where vampires live among humans. It follows Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), a telepathic waitress who becomes involved with a vampire named Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer).
Sign Off: The Magic Fades but the Impact Stays
TV’s Magic Touch
There, you can explore the world of magic as it is brought to life on the small screen.
From thrilling heists and supernatural happenings to comical illusions and everything in between, these forty television shows about magic and magicians enchanted viewers worldwide with their charm.
But the magic of these series doesn’t end when the credits roll. These shows have sparked imaginations, inspired new generations of magical enthusiasts, and continue to color our world with a touch of mystery and wonder.
Magic might fade when the screen goes black, but its impact, like a well-performed trick, stays with you, leaving an indelible mark in your memory. It is the true magic of television.
