Babylon 5 didn’t just become a sci-fi classic — it helped lay the foundation for the serialized storytelling style that dominates TV today.

The realm of science fiction has given birth to so many great shows that have shaped the fabric of pop culture. Star Warshas moved from the big screen to the small, with mostly successful results. Star Trek has once again cemented its place on television with fare like Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Even new series like The Expanseand Silo have managed to become the topic of water cooler conversation. But there is one science fiction show that definitely deserves to be discussed with the same fervor: Babylon 5. Created by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylon 5 wasn't just a well-crafted science fiction series — it also provides an example of storytelling elements that have shaped modern television.