Watch The X-Files

The X-Files is a science-fiction television show that originally aired on FOX from 1993 to 2002 and was later picked up again in 2016 for a six-episode revival, followed by an additional season in 2018. The show stars David Duchovny as FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson as FBI Special Agent Dana Scully who investigate paranormal and extraterrestrial cases labeled as "X-Files". Throughout the series, they uncover various government conspiracies and intertwined storylines, including the alien colonization of Earth and the existence of a shadowy group known as the Syndicate. Robert Patrick and Annabeth Gish joined the cast as agents John Doggett and Monica Reyes respectively, in later seasons.

Mulder, who has a personal interest in the paranormal due to his sister's abduction, is a believer in extraterrestrial life and the paranormal, while Scully, a medical doctor, is more skeptical and often provides the scientific explanation for the cases they investigate. The dynamic between the two agents, their humorous banter, and their evolving relationship, remained a strong aspect of the show throughout its run.

The X-Files, created by Chris Carter, gained a loyal and passionate following, known as the "X-Philes", due to its unique blend of sci-fi, horror, and suspense, as well as its characters' complex development and thematic exploration of both the supernatural and human nature. The show also made use of various cinematic techniques and featured impressive visual effects for its time.

The series also introduced a number of recurring characters, including Walter Skinner (Mitch Pileggi), their boss at the FBI who often helped them in their investigations, and the enigmatic cigarette-smoking man (William B. Davis), who was revealed to be a key player in the Syndicate's conspiracy. Other recurring characters include the Lone Gunmen, a trio of conspiracy theorists who assist Mulder and Scully, and Agent Krycek (Nicholas Lea), an ambiguous character who worked against the agents at times.

Throughout its run, The X-Files tackled a range of topics, including genetic engineering, parasitic organisms, time travel, and psychic abilities. With its mixture of mythology episodes, which contributed to the overarching story arc, and standalone episodes, which could be enjoyed as individual cases, the series offered a diverse viewing experience. Additionally, episodes such as "Home" and "Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose" are widely regarded as some of the best episodes of the series, with the latter earning Peter Boyle an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.

The X-Files also spawned two feature films, released in 1998 and 2008, respectively, which were set in the timeline of the show and featured the main cast. In addition, the popularity of the show led to the creation of spinoffs, such as The Lone Gunmen, and a comic book series.

Overall, The X-Files has left a lasting impact on popular culture, paving the way for the sci-fi genre to be embraced in mainstream entertainment. Its influence can still be seen in shows that followed, such as Fringe, Stranger Things, and Supernatural. With its iconic characters, gripping storytelling, and enduring legacy, The X-Files remains a beloved and influential series.

The X-Files continues to be available for streaming on various platforms and is highly recommended for fans of science-fiction, suspense, and conspiracy theories.

The X-Files is a series that is currently running and has 11 seasons (220 episodes). The series first aired on September 10, 1993.

Where to Watch The X-Files