Top 10 Greatest TV Aliens

#10: ALF“ALF” (1986-90)

Gordon Shumway, better known as ALF, or Alien Life Form, is an alien from the planet Melmac, who crash-lands on the middleclass Tanner family’s house and decides to stay. Fish out of water stories are always popular, and while ALF wasn’t the first, or the last alien to star in a suburban sitcom, his popularity was nothing to laugh at. ALF appeared in various spin-offs, including multiple animated series and a talk show. His wisecracking, scheming personality and surprising heart made him a hit with kids and adults alike. Not with cats though - they’re his favorite food.

#9: Dr. John Zoidberg“Futurama” (1999-2003; 2008-13; 2023-)

This futuristic, sci-fi sitcom has loads of fantastic alien characters. Although the nebbish, adorable Kif Kroker was tempting, our pick goes to Planet Express’s resident “physician” - and we use that term very loosely - Dr. Zoidberg. While doctors generally project an image of wealth, intelligence, and success, Zoidberg is destitute, doesn’t understand human anatomy, and is incredibly unpopular with his coworkers. The lobster-like alien’s desperate need for validation and the fact that he eats garbage are some of the leading causes of their dislike. However, as pathetic as Zoidberg is, his iconic, Yiddish-influenced voice, memorable appearance, and bizarre behavior have made him the show’s best alien character.

#8: Zim“Invader Zim” (2001-06)

The titular character and villainous protagonist of “Invader Zim,” this green-skinned, would-be conqueror seeks to take over the world. Unfortunately for him, he’s spectacularly bad at his job. The diminutive Irkan’s many plots are thwarted most often by either his equally incompetent robot GIR, his own mistakes, or his nemesis at the elementary “skool” he attends, Dib. Zim’s only bit of luck is that everybody else besides Dib and his sister are utterly oblivious to the fact that he’s an alien. Zim may be suffering from the universe’s biggest Napoleon complex, but we can’t help but root for him - or at least enjoy watching him fail.

#7: Roger Smith“American Dad!” (2005-)

A more unhinged take on the “alien living with a suburban family” trope, Roger is a grey alien of unknown species who escaped from Area 51 and who lives with the Smith family. Willing to flirt or sleep with anyone and everyone, Roger is wildly hedonistic, sarcastic, and willing to go to extreme lengths for very little reward. Fond of crafting dozens if not hundreds of elaborate alter egos, Roger’s shenanigans can vary from mischievous to outright criminal. While his chaotic behavior may lead to frequent trouble for the Smiths, Roger is immensely entertaining for us to watch.

#6: Clark Kent“Smallville” (2001-11)

Okay, sure, Clark Kent may have his origins in comics, but the young man who will be Superman is portrayed in a wholly unique way here. Clark’s struggles with teenage issues like hormones are paired perfectly with his discovery of his Kryptonian physiology and heritage. And while a caring and heroic person at his core, this version of Clark is vulnerable and relatable in a way few incarnations of the character have ever been. Clark’s friendship turned rivalry with Lex Luthor, as well as his other personal dynamics are fantastic to watch develop over the show’s long run. While Clark may forever find himself struggling with his identity, his humanity is every bit as intriguing as what makes him “super.”

#5: Ahsoka Tano“Star Wars” franchise (1977-)

A galaxy far far away has given us some fantastic TV aliens. Although Grogu, a.k.a. Baby Yoda, was also tempting, he’s more of a mascot. Ahsoka Tano on the other hand has one of the best character arcs in all of “Star Wars!” Beginning as a naive young Jedi thrust into war under Anakin Skywalker, Ahsoka is exposed to many hardships, but emerges all the stronger for it. She comes to see the Jedi order’s flaws and decides to pursue her own path. Plus, she’s just such a badass! Ahsoka’s presence in multiple animated and live-action TV series has made her among the most iconic alien “Star Wars” characters, or indeed in general.

#4: Mork“Happy Days” (1974-84) & “Mork & Mindy” (1978-82)

Nanu nanu! Mork from Ork is basically the late, great Robin Williams playing himself as an alien. Hailing from a world where humor is frowned upon, Mork is sent to Earth to study humanity, but also because he ironically fits in better here. While his near constant stream of joking remarks makes reliable information on Orkans thin on the ground, his reactions to humanity are the source of endless humor throughout Mork’s time on TV. Mork’s hysterical personality and burgeoning relationship with his human guide Mindy have endeared him to viewers everywhere and helped cement Robin Williams’ legacy as an entertainer.

#3: Marvin the Martian“Looney Tunes” franchise (1930-)

While aliens from our nearest celestial neighbor have often been depicted as conquerors, Marvin the Martian is a more comedic take on the Martian invader trope. Dressed in a Roman uniform and sporting a featureless black face, Marvin’s comedy is most often expressed with his body language along with his nasal voice and intellectual vocabulary. His dastardly plots are usually foiled by Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck’s alter ego, Duck Dodgers, but it’s always entertaining to see him get “very angry” when they do. He may not always deliver “an earth-shattering kaboom,” like some other aliens, but Marvin remains an alien icon of classic animation.

#2: The Doctor“Doctor Who” (1963-89; 2005-)

Much like the show that bears their name, the Doctor is a character who changes frequently over the years. A Time Lord who travels throughout time and space, helping others where they can, the Doctor also regenerates into a new appearance every so often, healing themselves and often revitalizing their show in the process. Each Doctor has their own quirks, personalities, and worldviews. However, what remains consistent is their aversion to violence, thirst for discovery, and fondness for Earth. Given their ever-changing nature, the Doctor has nearly infinite potential, and “infinitely” is almost how much “Doctor Who” fans have enjoyed watching them.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Harry Vanderspeigle, “Resident Alien” (2021-25)

Human-ing is Hard, Okay?

Martian Manhunter, “Justice League” (2001-04) & “Justice League Unlimited” (2004-06)

A Shapeshifting Superhero of Impeccable Character

Dick Solomon, “3rd Rock from the Sun” (1996-2001)

His Childish Fascination With Humanity is Hysterical!

#1: Spock“Star Trek” franchise (1966-)

The voyages of Federation starships have given us some of the most memorable alien characters in fiction. As much as we love characters like Worf though, Spock is just the best of the best. Half-Vulcan and half-human, Spock’s adherence to logic and science are complimented by his rare explorations of his emotions. Spock’s dignified intelligence is most often counterbalanced by James Kirk’s more impulsive style, but his interactions with any character is a joy to watch and new facets of him have been explored with each portrayal. Many can relate to Spock’s status as a person caught between two worlds, while neurodivergent viewers have long found his rationality and difficulty with emotions sympathetic. Spock’s legacy, just like his oft-quoted catchphrase, will live long and prosper.

Is there a TV alien we forgot? Share your earth-shattering picks in the comments!