From Invaders to Allies: The Evolution of Aliens in TV Shows

Are you intrigued by the portrayal of aliens in TV shows👽? The depiction of extraterrestrial beings has come a long way over the years, evolving from fearful invaders to friendly allies. Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of aliens in TV shows.

The Beginning - Invading Aliens

In the early years of TV shows, aliens were often depicted as fearsome invaders that threatened humanity. Shows like War of the Worlds and The Outer Limits portrayed them as hostile beings that aimed to destroy the Earth. The portrayal of aliens in these shows was that of an ominous threat, where their sole purpose was to cause human destruction.

The Middle - Curious Aliens

In the 1970s and 80s, TV shows started portraying aliens as more curious beings than just invaders. Shows like Mork & Mindy and ALF showed aliens trying to learn about the human race, forming endearing relationships with humans. These aliens were used as an opportunity the show’s creators to explore the differences between humans and extraterrestrial beings.

Modern - Ally Aliens

As TV shows evolved further, aliens were no longer depicted as invaders or just curious beings─they gradually became allies. The portrayal of aliens as potential allies first appeared prominently in Star Trek and its spin-offs. The Star Trek franchise was the first mainstream TV show that depicted aliens working alongside humans for a common goal.

Other modern TV shows such as Doctor Who, Stargate SG-1, and Roswell depicted friendly and relatable aliens. Aliens in these shows was shown as allies with their own goals and experiences, allowing viewers to see them as potential partners rather than threats.

Aliens As A Reflection of Society

One thing that is interesting about the evolution of aliens in TV shows is the idea that they are often a reflection of a society’s perspective at the time. The portrayal of aliens as invaders reflects the fear of communism in the early years of TV shows. As society grew more accepting, so did the portrayal of aliens in the media, shifting towards a more nuanced and friendly depiction.

Conclusion

Alien depiction in TV shows has come a long way, from invaders in black and white to potential allies in colour. As the world’s perspective on aliens changed, the portrayal of them in TV shows also evolved - showing how media is intertwined with our society’s perspective. Who knows how aliens will be portrayed in the years to come🤔.