TV · List · August 31, 2026 · 4d ago

7 Epic Series That Capture the Magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender

· 3 min read

✦ AI Summary

If you're still mourning the end of Aang's journey or eagerly awaiting new adventures, this list offers seven fantastic shows that deliver a similar blend of adventure, elemental powers, and coming-of-age stories.

The Legend of Korra

Fans of the original Avatar: The Last Airbender know that the world didn't end with Aang. This sequel series, which premiered in 2012 on Nickelodeon, picks up 70 years later with a new Avatar, Korra, a spirited teenager from the Southern Water Tribe. It dives deeper into the political landscape and spiritual complexities of the Avatar world, offering a darker, more mature take on the established lore while retaining the core themes of balance and destiny.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

This 2009-2010 anime series from Bones Studio is a masterclass in storytelling, following brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they seek the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical ritual. Like Avatar, it expertly balances high-stakes action with profound emotional depth, exploring themes of sacrifice, war, and the consequences of playing God, all within a richly detailed world governed by its own unique magical system.

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power

DreamWorks Animation reimagined the classic 80s character for a new generation in this 2018-2020 Netflix series. It follows Adora, who discovers she can transform into the legendary warrior She-Ra and must lead a rebellion against an evil empire. The show excels in its character development, particularly its exploration of complex relationships and the burden of leadership, mirroring the found-family dynamics and moral quandaries central to Avatar.

The Dragon Prince

Co-created by Aaron Ehasz, head writer of Avatar: The Last Airbender, this 2018-present Netflix animated series feels like a spiritual successor. It tells the story of two human princes and an elf assassin who must journey to a magical land to prevent a war between humans and the dragon kingdom. Its blend of humor, heart, and intricate world-building, complete with unique magical abilities and diverse characters, makes it a natural fit for Avatar fans.

Steven Universe

Premiering in 2013 on Cartoon Network, this beloved series follows Steven, a young boy with magical powers inherited from his mother, a Gem. He protects humanity alongside the Crystal Gems, a team of alien warriors. Steven Universe shares Avatar's knack for tackling heavy themes like trauma, identity, and found family with grace and nuance, all wrapped in a vibrant, imaginative art style and a deeply resonant emotional core.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Set between the prequel and original Star Wars films, this 2008-2014 animated series expanded the galaxy far, far away in profound ways. It delves into the complexities of war, morality, and the bonds forged in conflict, featuring compelling character arcs for Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka Tano. The show's commitment to intricate lore and epic space battles offers a grand adventure scale that fans of Avatar's world-spanning quests will appreciate.

Tangled: The Series

This 2017-2020 Disney Channel series, later titled Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure, picks up after the 2010 film and follows Rapunzel as she leaves her tower to explore the world and reclaim her kingdom. It maintains the film's charm and humor while introducing new characters, deeper lore, and exciting magical elements, creating an adventurous journey filled with friendship and self-discovery that resonates with the spirit of Avatar.

Bottom Line: These seven series offer compelling journeys, rich worlds, and characters you'll root for, proving that the spirit of adventure and magic is alive and well on our screens.