There can be only one. So goes the most famous phrase from Highlander, a franchise that started back in 1986 with its first feature film. Fans wanted more, even if the original outing wrapped things up nicely. Thus, most of the following incarnations try something different, setting their stories in a new timeline or involving other planets. Sure, this resulted in retcons and a few moments of outright ignoring the canon. But no matter how many mistakes were made, Highlander couldn’t be stopped, and discussions of a reboot continue today.
Creator Gregory Widen (Backdraft, The Prophecy) conceived a world of epic sword fights, historical flashbacks, loss, decapitation, and tons of lightning. Though not every Highlander property has been successful, the momentum of the series is undeniable, and has spread into various mediums. There have been multiple Highlander movies, television shows, books, comics, a short-lived collectible card game, and a web-series, as well as attempts at video games including a canceled MMO. Yes indeed, the Highlander franchise provides a whole lot of content for those who want to explore the world of the immortals further … but not every fight is worth it. To help you navigate this sprawling franchise, we’re here to rank the Highlander franchise’s films and TV shows from worst to best.