The 2010s were a golden era for science fiction television, especially in the post-apocalyptic genre. Among the standout shows, one series gained a dedicated following for its unique story and strong performances. This series depicted a world where one hundred teenagers are sent to Earth after a nuclear apocalypse, tasked with determining if the planet can sustain human life again.
Created by Jason Rothenberg, the show premiered on The CW in April and quickly earned praise for revitalizing the post-apocalyptic narrative. Unlike typical zombie dramas dominating the niche, it explored survival, morality, and human conflict through fresh perspectives. Critics responded positively from the start, awarding the first season a solid 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The final three seasons each achieved a 100% rating, highlighting the show’s steady improvement and critical acclaim.
The series starred Eliza Taylor as Clarke, a leading figure among the teens sent to reclaim Earth. Bob Morley co-starred as Bellamy, another central character in the struggle for survival. Over time, the cast expanded to include notable names such as Marie Avgeropoulos, Lindsey Morgan, and Henry Ian Cusick, enriching the complex world and its narratives.
One significant milestone was the introduction of an LGBTQ storyline involving Clarke and Lexa, played by Alicia Debnam-Carey. This represented a landmark moment for queer representation in sci-fi television. However, the storyline also faced backlash due to the controversial death of Lexa, a moment that sparked debates about harmful tropes in media.
After seven successful seasons, Rothenberg chose to end the series to preserve its quality and avoid overstaying its welcome. The show concluded in June, cementing its status as a beloved drama of the decade. Currently, the series is being removed from Netflix as of December 18, much to the disappointment of fans who have yet to finish it.
For viewers wishing to revisit or catch up, HBO Max in the United States remains the official streaming platform. The show’s departure from Netflix reflects broader changes in streaming rights but ensures that this acclaimed sci-fi saga can still be enjoyed by new audiences.