How to watch

Red Dwarf Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch Red Dwarf in order

Last updated: November 6 2026

Written by: ChronoChris

Red Dwarf has been drifting through deep space since 1988, mixing sci-fi with classic British sitcom humor. With twelve series and several specials, here is the complete order to follow Lister and the crew.

Created by Rob Grant and Doug Naylor, Red Dwarf follows Dave Lister, the last human alive, who wakes from three million years in stasis aboard a mining ship. His companions are Arnold Rimmer, his hologram bunkmate; the Cat, a vain descendant of Lister's pet; the ship's computer Holly; and later the mechanoid Kryten. The show began on BBC Two and later moved to the Dave channel, where it continued with new series and specials.

๐Ÿ• Release Order

Red Dwarf uses 'series' rather than seasons, and here they are in release order along with the specials.

  1. Red Dwarf I (1988)
  2. Red Dwarf II (1988)
  3. Red Dwarf III (1989)
  4. Red Dwarf IV (1991)
  5. Red Dwarf V (1992)
  6. Red Dwarf VI (1993)
  7. Red Dwarf VII (1997)
  8. Red Dwarf VIII (1999)
  9. Red Dwarf: Back to Earth (2009)
  10. Red Dwarf X (2012)
  11. Red Dwarf XI (2016)
  12. Red Dwarf XII (2017)
  13. Red Dwarf: The Promised Land (2020)

The show is mostly episodic, with arcs like the search for the missing ship in Series VI through VIII. Story chronology follows the broadcast order, even when time travel gets involved.

๐Ÿ“– Story Chronology

In story order, simply follow the series from I to XII, with Back to Earth set between VIII and X and The Promised Land coming last.

  1. Red Dwarf I-VIII (1988-1999)
  2. Red Dwarf: Back to Earth (2009)
  3. Red Dwarf X-XII (2012-2017)
  4. Red Dwarf: The Promised Land (2020)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Watch in release order. Series I and II are lower-budget but establish the characters, and Series III through VI are widely considered the show's golden era, with classic episodes like 'Back to Reality' and 'Gunmen of the Apocalypse.' Series VII and VIII change the format with a film-style look and a live audience return, while the Dave-era revival recaptures much of the original magic. The Promised Land, a feature-length special, is an enjoyable send-off for now.

๐Ÿ”— Related Guides

  • Doctor Who Watch OrderGuide
  • Futurama Watch OrderGuide
  • Mr. Bean Watch OrderGuide

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!