Masters of Science Fiction (2007)
A prestige anthology series hosted by Stephen Hawking, adapting landmark science fiction literature into compelling standalone films for ABC.
Masters of Science Fiction - Series Information
- Original Title: Masters of Science Fiction
- First Air Year: 2007
- Last Air Year: 2008
- Created by: Harold Becker, Jonathan Frakes et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 6
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: August 4, 2007 (Canada - 14+), August 4, 2007 (United Kingdom - 12)
- Networks: ABC
- Alternative Titles: Maestrii SF-ului (RO), Stephen Hawking's Sci Fi Masters (US), A sci-fi mesterei (HU), Maestros de la ciencia ficción (ES), &Xcy;рóники будушегó (RU), Майñтри наукóвий фантастики (UA), Mistri sci-fi (CZ)
Masters of Science Fiction - Plot
Masters of Science Fiction is an American television anthology series with each hour long episode taking the form of a separate short film adaptation of a story by a respected member of the science fiction community. The show is hosted by physicist Stephen Hawking.
Masters of Science Fiction - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what this landmark anthology series has in store.
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Masters of Science Fiction - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Harold Becker
- Jonathan Frakes
- Darnell Martin
- Michael Petroni
- Mark Rydell
Main Cast
- Stephen Hawking
- Terry O'Quinn
- Clifton Collins Jr.
- James Denton
- Sonja Bennett
- Tom Butler
- Elisabeth Röhm
- Kimberly Elise
- Judy Davis
- Sean Astin
Writers
- Sam Egan
- Michael Petroni
- Michael Tolkin
- Harlan Ellison
- Robert Sheckley
Executive Producers
- Stephen R. Brown
Masters of Science Fiction - FAQs
Who hosted Masters of Science Fiction?
The series was hosted by the legendary theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, who introduced each episode with his characteristic wit and insight. His involvement lent the anthology a unique scientific credibility and cultural prestige that set it apart from other sci-fi anthology series of its era.
Is Masters of Science Fiction based on real stories?
Every episode adapts a short story by a celebrated science fiction author. The series drew from the genre's literary canon, bringing works by writers such as Harlan Ellison and Robert Sheckley to the screen as standalone hour-long films, honoring the tradition of classic sci-fi literature.
Where can you stream Masters of Science Fiction?
You can watch Masters of Science Fiction for free on Plex and The Roku Channel, or with ads on Tubi TV. If you prefer to own it, episodes are available to buy on Amazon Video and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region.
Why was Masters of Science Fiction cancelled after one season?
ABC aired only four of the six produced episodes before pulling the series from its schedule due to low ratings. The remaining two episodes were later broadcast in Canada and the UK. The show's niche literary appeal struggled to find a broad enough audience on a major network.
Who are the notable cast members in Masters of Science Fiction?
The anthology format allowed for a rotating ensemble of acclaimed actors. Notable performers include Terry O'Quinn, Sean Astin, Judy Davis, Kimberly Elise, James Denton, Elisabeth Röhm, and Clifton Collins Jr., each appearing in separate self-contained episodes alongside host Stephen Hawking.
What makes Masters of Science Fiction unique among anthology series?
Unlike many anthology shows that rely on original scripts, Masters of Science Fiction exclusively adapted stories from respected sci-fi literary figures. Paired with Stephen Hawking's hosting and a roster of accomplished directors, it aimed to elevate the genre to prestige television territory rarely seen on network TV.
How many episodes does Masters of Science Fiction have?
Six episodes were produced in total, each running approximately 60 minutes as a standalone film. While only four aired on ABC in the United States, all six episodes were eventually broadcast internationally, making the complete season available to dedicated fans of the genre.
What shows are similar to Masters of Science Fiction?
Fans of the series often enjoy The Ray Bradbury Theater, Night Gallery, and The Twilight Zone for their anthology format and literary sci-fi roots. Max Headroom and Debris offer a different but complementary blend of speculative fiction, while The Storyteller: Greek Myths shares the same prestige storytelling approach.
More About Masters of Science Fiction
Explore further details about the series on these authoritative resources.