The 30 Best Romantic Space Operas in Film and Television

#21: Stargate: Atlantis (2004-2009)

A spinoff of Stargate SG-1, Stargate: Atlantis is compelling for those intrigued by the lost city of Atlantis. When a group of scientists discover a Stargate that leads to Atlantis in the Pegasus Galaxy, they travel there to only get stuck and awaken an ancient power called “The Wraith.” Romance soon follows…

#22: SGU Stargate Universe (2009-2011)

For those who love Rumpelstiltskin on Once Upon A Time, you may want to check out yet another spinoff of SG-1 because it stars Robert Carlyle. And with several romantic developments on board this trapped spaceship, there’s a lot to enjoy!

#23: Star Trek (1966 to the various movies)

What space opera list would be complete without Star Trek? No, but seriously there’s like a gazillion shows based spun off from this one spaceship defending the universe. Star Trek started it all however. While love wasn’t the focus, there were certainly romances to be found, particularly with ladies’ man Captain James T. Kirk. As I’m not a Trekkie (I’ve seen only a little so far), you’ll have to forgive me and fill me in your favorite Star Trek tales of love…

#24: Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

This famous spinoff follows Captain Picard (the always fabulous Patrick Stewart) in a new Enterprise traveling the universe. Some of the love stories to root for include Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher as well as Commander Riker and Deanna.

#25: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993-1999)

Another show for those who love Star Trek, Deep Space Nine is about the crew surrounding a wormhole and all the interesting developments that follow from there, including war and obviously some romances. One memorable couple includes Commander Worf and Commander Dax.

#26: Star Trek: Voyager (1995-2001)

Voyager follows a crew 75 years away from home, who must find their way back. With an awesome female captain, an uneasy alliance, and characters to identify with, Star Trek: Voyager makes for another interesting space opera with some love stories on the side.

#27: Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness

I loved the reboot of Star Trek, and immensely enjoyed the new cast aboard as well. It really made the classic story fresh again (because of this I am also eagerly anticipating J.J. Abrams’ continuation of Star Wars). Not to mention that one of the best parts from both films is hands down the romantic development between Spock and Uhura!

#28: Star Wars Original Trilogy (1977 -1983)

Star Wars is basically the space opera of space operas about Jedi Knights, destiny, Darth Vader, and an empire in need of saving. While certainly the dialogue has never been the greatest (that’s part of its charm), the story certainly has entertained and became beloved by more than one generation. A part of the reason I love Star Wars so much though comes down to the palpable chemistry and tension between the rogue Han Solo and feisty Princess Leia.

#29: Star Wars Prequel Trilogy (1999-2005)

Take out Jar Jar Binks, too many CGI effects, cringe worthy dialogue moments, and the prequels are still fun to watch. I mean, Ewan McGregor was the perfect casting choice for a young Obi Wan Kenobi. While the love story between Anakin and Amidala isn’t the most popular (thanks to some awkward scenes), the story still has good moments that lead to some epic battles in the final film.

#30: Titan A.E. (2000)

An underappreciated animated space opera set in 3000 something A.D. in which after the earth is destroyed by aliens, humans are adrift in space. In order to find another earth, Cale, with the help of Akima must find the Titan in order to build a new earth. There is of course a love story between Cale and Akima, voiced by Matt Damon and Drew Barrymore.

What’s your favorite romantic space opera? Do you have a favorite couple? Did I leave out your favorite? Sound off in the comments…

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