The sci-fi series Extant, starring Halle Berry and executive produced by Steven Spielberg, has become available on Netflix. Originally aired on CBS, the show follows an astronaut's return from space with unexpected developments. Viewers can now access its two seasons amid a growing interest in broadcast series on streaming platforms.
Extant first aired on CBS, marking a notable venture for film stars Halle Berry and Steven Spielberg into television. Berry portrays astronaut Molly Woods, who returns from a 13-month mission aboard the Seraphim space station to face an impossible personal surprise. The series unfolds with intrigue involving factions seeking to access or hide information and artifacts, blending elements of suspense and science fiction.
Berry's performance stands out, particularly in her handling of tense, high-stakes scenarios reminiscent of her roles in thrillers like The Call and Kidnap. The cast also includes Jeffery Dean Morgan, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Pierce Gagnon, contributing to the show's depth across its 26 episodes over two seasons. This length provides a substantial narrative arc, contrasting with shorter modern series that often conclude in just six episodes.
Now on Netflix, Extant joins other popular sci-fi offerings such as Dark, 3 Body Problem, Orphan Black, and Black Mirror. Its arrival reflects a broader trend where older broadcast shows, like Suits and The Office, continue to draw significant viewership. Netflix audiences have responded positively, with the series appearing on streaming ratings lists.
Produced in an era when special effects were advancing but not as dominant as today, Extant avoids heavy reliance on prosthetics or distant space settings, making it accessible. While science fiction can sometimes feel impenetrable, this show's grounded approach has helped it gain traction. As streaming options proliferate, viewer interest could revive such projects, potentially opening doors for more sci-fi roles for Berry in the future.
For those seeking engaging television, Extant offers a compelling mix of mystery and drama, ready for discovery on Netflix.
