Science fiction is an exciting genre full of mystery, intrigue and adventure. The ’80s were a great time for sci-fi buffs, thanks to the debut of many heavy-hitting franchises that continue today. While every sci-fi show is unique, many share common tropes that define the genre. One example is the lovable sidekick.
Quirky, reliable and always down to join the hero on their next mission, sidekicks add a lot to these stories. They may not be the central characters, but there is no shortage of great sidekicks that have captured the hearts of science fiction fanatics worldwide. Here are some of the most memorable from decades past.
1. C-3PO and R2-D2 – “Star Wars” Franchise (1977-Present)
We can’t have a list of sci-fi sidekicks without discussing R2-D2 and C-3PO! These guys are the ones who most think of when they picture the quintessential companion robot. R2-D2 is an astromech droid known for coming in clutch when needed most.
Meanwhile, C-3PO is a humanoid protocol droid with a reputation for being fussy but reliable. The two have an unlikely friendship, supporting other characters on their journey in a galaxy far, far away.
R2-D2 and C-3PO have major appearances throughout the Skywalker trilogy. They appear in the original, prequel and sequel trilogies. The pair also show up for a cameo in “Rogue One” (2016).
2. Rosey – “The Jetsons” (1962-1963, 1985-1987)
“The Jetsons” is an iconic animated sitcom about a family living in the future. When it debuted in the ’60s, the zany setting and over-the-top hijinx made it an instant hit. Even today, the show is one of the most well-known in cartoon history.
There’s no shortage of great characters in “The Jetsons.” However, Rosey, the robot maid of the Jetsons family, stands out the most. Rosey is a sweet, sassy character known for her hilarious one-liners and quips. She has an instantly recognizable look and is vital in keeping the Jetsons family on track.
3. Data – “Star Trek: The Next Generation” (1987-1994)
Data is a sentient android that serves as the second officer and chief operations officer of the U.S.S. Enterprise-D. His debut in the “Star Trek” series was “The Next Generation.”
However, Data was such a popular character that he continued to appear in later “Star Trek” media, including shows like “Star Trek: Piccard” (2020-2023) and franchise films like “Star Trek Generations” (1994), “Insurrection” (1998), “Nemesis” (2002) and more.
Data is unlike any other robot we’ve seen in sci-fi. The character is self-aware and displays many human-like characteristics. He’s naturally inquisitive and eager to learn about the universe around him, leading to many beautiful moments throughout his appearances in the franchise.
4. The Robot – “Lost in Space” (1965-1968)
“Lost in Space” was a fun sci-fi sitcom that aired in the 1960s. It received new iterations in the following decades, including reboots in 2004 and 2018. However, many still say that the original show is the best! The show follows a family of space colonists. The Robot, an environmental control robot, supports them on their adventures through outer space.
The Robot possesses super-human strength and an array of futuristic weapons. Despite being a machine, The Robot often had moments of human emotion. If you’ve ever heard the frequently quoted phrase “Danger Will Robinson,” you have The Robot to thank!
5. Alpha 5 – “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” (1993-1995)
The Power Rangers is an English-language take on the Super Sentai series that debuted in Japan in the 1970s. Mighty Morphin Power Rangers started the American series, using stock footage from the Japanese show for fight scenes. The American show had several original additions, including Alpha 5.
Alpha 5 is a self-aware robotic assistant who doesn’t take on a combatant role. Instead, he supports the Power Rangers and resides in the team’s base of operations. Alpha 5 also accompanies their mentor, Zordon.
He’s a humorous character who often stresses about the show’s events while providing support every step of the way.
6. K9 – “Doctor Who” (1963-Present)
“Doctor Who” has a massive place in T.V. history. It currently holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running science-fiction show. While the main cast has changed throughout the years, including several different Doctors, the show has several recurring elements. One example is K9, a robotic dog that debuted in the 1970s.
Several K9 units served as companions to different Doctors, but the lovable machinery was also a central character in several spin-off projects. These include “K-9 and Company” (1981) and “K9” (2009-2010).
7. Dot Matrix – “Spaceballs” (1987)
“Spaceballs” is a cult-classic parody film that pokes fun at the genre juggernaut, “Star Wars.” The movie does a fantastic job of satirizing the iconic space comedy, using unhinged comedy characters to depict the originals. Dot Matrix is the counterpart of C-3PO. She’s the Droid of Honor to Princess Vespa.
The gold-covered droid is one of the funniest characters in the film, delivering memorable one-liners throughout. The late and great Joan Rivers lends her voice to the character, and the comedienne doesn’t hold back with the humor.
8. Twiki – “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” (1979-1981)
The world learned about Buck Rogers nearly a century ago via comic strips appearing in the Sunday paper. However, it wasn’t until “Buck Rogers Living in the 25th Century” debuted in 1979 that the character became a sci-fi icon. The show’s protagonist emerges in the 25th century after 500 years of suspended animation and must navigate a brand-new world.
He’s joined by Twiki, a robot primarily used for ambulatory transportation and servitude. Twiki has an all-metal body with a human-like shape and face. Because Buck Rogers treats Twiki like more of a friend than a servant, Twiki develops a fun and lighthearted personality and becomes a huge part of the show.
9. K.I.T.T. – “Knightrider” (1982-1986)
K.I.T.T. is an acronym for Knight Industries Two Thousand, a highly intelligent computer module housed in the body of a robotic vehicle. In the original “Knightrider,” K.I.T.T. is a 1982 Pontiac Trans Am. This sidekick plays a central role in the franchise, accompanying the crime-fighting hero to take down baddies left and right.
K.I.T.T. isn’t your average vehicle. The car’s artificial intelligence makes it sentient, allowing it to assist in many ways. Pair that with the impressive technology and virtually indestructible build, and K.I.T.T. does a lot to help make the protagonist a successful hero.
The Sidekicks We All Deserve
You can’t have a sci-fi adventure without a trusty sidekick along for the ride. These characters add more dimension to already complex stories, serving as the all-important comedic relief, supporting heroes on their journey and providing new perspectives. They might not be the stars, but we can’t imagine these T.V. shows and movies without these accomplices.
