19 Spin-offs that were better than the original

HBO House Of The Dragon Promo In Krakow, Poland - Source: Getty
HBO House Of The Dragon Promo In Krakow, Poland - Source: Getty

An overwhelming number of shows have spinoffs of their original series. Some viewers say these spinoffs are sometimes even better than the original series. As spinoffs often delve into a refreshing perspective, they provide a different storyline for the characters, allowing them to grow. Some say that House of Dragons is better than Game of Thrones, which can be debatable, as enjoying a TV series is a subjective experience. In this list, let’s talk about 19 spin-offs that were better than the original, as deemed by most viewers.

1) House of Dragon

HBO House Of The Dragon Promo In Krakow, Poland - Source: Getty
HBO House Of The Dragon Promo In Krakow, Poland - Source: Getty

This show has garnered positive reactions from its viewers for its visuals and the performance of the main cast. The show captured the tone of George R.R. Martin’s work, which is a significant point as it gives the spin-off a positive edge. House of Dragon has done justice to its predecessor, Game of Thrones, on which it is based, as mentioned by many viewers.

2) The Apprentice: Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart - Source: Getty
Martha Stewart - Source: Getty

According to viewers, this show offered a unique blend of business acumen and lifestyle expertise. It was a notable entry in the franchise, offering visually appealing challenges. The show showed Martha Stewart in action, gaining positive reactions from its viewers. With her expert wit, perfectionism, and long-standing expertise, it generated interesting discussions. This show brought about creativity, which the audience enjoyed.

3) The Mandalorian

Star Wars Merchandise - Source: Getty
Star Wars Merchandise - Source: Getty

The show has impressed its viewers with the visuals and intricate costumes related to the Star Wars franchise. Din Djarin and Grogu’s immense character development has been appreciated for their evolving relationship and individual growth. The Mandalorian is an engaging series. It dives deep into the Mandalorian culture, traditions, and beliefs. The familiar characters made cameos which received immense applause from the viewers.

4) Bachelor in Paradise

(05/22/2017- Boston, MA) "Bachelor in Paradise" stars Vinny Ventiera, right, and Jared Haibon, left, pose for a picture as they hang out with from left, Adriana Alissi, 24, sister Nicole Alissi, 21, and Haley Devries, 21, all of Marblehead, at Empir - Source: Getty
(05/22/2017- Boston, MA) "Bachelor in Paradise" stars Vinny Ventiera, right, and Jared Haibon, left, pose for a picture as they hang out with from left, Adriana Alissi, 24, sister Nicole Alissi, 21, and Haley Devries, 21, all of Marblehead, at Empir - Source: Getty

This is a spinoff of The Bachelor, and it features former contestants in their journey to find love. The viewers find this show entertaining for its drama and romance-filled twists. This is a popular show and has amassed a huge number of fans. This show is more dynamic, which creates unpredictability. As a result, many viewers find it better than its predecessor.

5) The Kardashians

Kardashians Poster In Birmingham - Source: Getty
Kardashians Poster In Birmingham - Source: Getty

This show is a spin-off of the famous series Keeping Up With The Kardashians. This spin-off, however, has received many positive reactions from viewers for its focus on the individual storylines of each family member of the Kardashians. The storyline also focuses on the family business ventures, with their social media influence. The quality has improved with higher production rates and is going strong.

6) Law and Order: SVU

"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" 25th Anniversary Celebration - Source: Getty
"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" 25th Anniversary Celebration - Source: Getty

This long-running American police procedural drama focuses on the NYPD’s Special Victim’s Unit, which investigates crimes. This show has an immense emotional impact, as said by its viewers. It is praised for taking up relevant and important social issues such as child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. There is character development that the audience finds compelling. This show has garnered a dedicated and passionate fanbase.

7) Family Feud

2016 Golden Goggle Awards - Source: Getty
2016 Golden Goggle Awards - Source: Getty

This game show has been popular among the audience for a long time. This competition features two families who compete against one another for a cash prize. This show reached millions of viewers globally and is known for its simple and engaging format. The show’s strong hosting also adds to the success of this show. This show has also received the Daytime Emmy Award.

8) Angel

Angel | Image Via: Mutant Enemy Productions
Angel | Image Via: Mutant Enemy Productions

Airing from 1999 to 2004, this American Supernatural TV series is known for its theme and depth. Audiences who are looking for darker, complex characters with an introspective approach are known to enjoy Angel over its predecessor. The major themes of this show are redemption, guilt, loss, and love, where the protagonist seeks redemption by fighting against supernatural forces. This series is known to leave a lasting impact on its viewers.

9) Boston Legal

William Shatner, star of Boston Legal, and winner of an Emmy, and Golden Globe has been nominated for a - Source: Getty
William Shatner, star of Boston Legal, and winner of an Emmy, and Golden Globe has been nominated for a - Source: Getty

Nominated for more than 25 Primetime Emmy Awards, Boston Legal has successfully built on its predecessor. This show uniquely blended legal drama, dark comedy, and social satire. The characters of this show are loved by loyal fandom for their ‘eccentric’ personalities as said by some viewers. It portrays social issues along with complex and controversial topics, absolutely worth watching.

10) The Colbert Report

President Obama Tapes An Interview For The Colbert Report with Stephen Colbert - Source: Getty
President Obama Tapes An Interview For The Colbert Report with Stephen Colbert - Source: Getty

This show has successfully surpassed its predecessor in terms of cultural impact. The brilliant wit and biting irony of Colbert is appreciated by the viewers. This show is known for dissecting various political issues and talking about the issues of contemporary culture. It is not just a funny show. This show garnered a huge fanbase and has received numerous awards.

11) Daria

Daria | Image Via: Heyday Media
Daria | Image Via: Heyday Media

Daria has received high praise from its audience for being a relatable show. This series is a great example of a successful spin-off. The cynicism, insightful observation, and Daria's wit resonated with the audience. This show expands the universe and delves into Daria's uniqueness. Daria is an inspiration for several new shows and is relevant even today. There's character development along with nostalgic values.

12) Elsbeth

Celebrity Sightings In New York City - March 28, 2023 - Source: Getty
Celebrity Sightings In New York City - March 28, 2023 - Source: Getty

Elsbeth Tasconi has been a fan favorite since the show’s predecessor. This character’s unique perspective, legal acumen, and eccentricity is what viewers enjoyed in the show and has made the show a successful spinoff of The Good Wife and The Good Fight. This show maintains continuity along with a character-driven approach. A fresh perspective with its shift to a detective-style procedure brings positive reviews from its viewers.

13) The Flash

"The Art Of The Brick: DC Super Heroes" Exhibition At Parc De La Villette - Source: Getty
"The Art Of The Brick: DC Super Heroes" Exhibition At Parc De La Villette - Source: Getty

The Flash is an appealing show. It has a strong global fan base. The series has well-rounded, engaging characters and proper storytelling. The audience finds the themes of the show engaging. The themes of responsibility and the consequences of choices taken by the characters have a significant impact on the viewers. This show is a good example of a good spinoff.

14) The Originals

2015 Television Critics' Association - CW Panels - Source: Getty
2015 Television Critics' Association - CW Panels - Source: Getty

The spinoff of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, delves into the story of the original vampires and has received immense success and a huge fanbase. This show, unlike its predecessor, takes a mature route and uncovers the story of the original vampires that the audience wanted. The storyline is authentic in its central premise and has forged its own identity. It makes a compelling watch for the viewers who like this genre.

15) The Good Fight

The Good Fight | Image Via: Scott Free
The Good Fight | Image Via: Scott Free

Unlike several legal dramas, The Good Fight is appraised by its viewers for bringing out real-life issues of the world. The series focussed on various relevant issues like COVID-19 and the MeToo movement. It is considered a strong successor of its predecessor, The Good Wife. There is a sharp social commentary and strong performances from the actors who bring out the series' essence. This show is considered a thought-provoking series forging its own identity by its viewers.

16) Star Trek: The Next Generation

Logic and Laughs by Des Taylor is photographed at the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland, Calif., on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017. In celebration of Star Trek?«÷s 50th anniversary the Star Trek: 50 Artists. 50 Years. exhibition curated by CBS Consumer - Source: Getty
Logic and Laughs by Des Taylor is photographed at the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland, Calif., on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017. In celebration of Star Trek?«÷s 50th anniversary the Star Trek: 50 Artists. 50 Years. exhibition curated by CBS Consumer - Source: Getty

Star Trek: The Next Generation has surpassed its predecessor in many ways. The themes of exploration, diplomacy, and the introduction of social justice have kept the series innovative and engaging. The series has introduced a diverse cast containing complex characters and compelling backstories. This show has reportedly created a profound impact on its fans and has inspired a new generation of fans.

17) The Simpsons

Fans Attend ComicCon Yorkshire 2024 - Source: Getty
Fans Attend ComicCon Yorkshire 2024 - Source: Getty

Starting from The Tracy Ullman Show, The Simpsons has been around for over thirty years. This show is considered to be widely influential by its viewers. A blend of satire, witty dialogue, and absurdist humor, this show has been relevant to its viewers and has amassed a huge fanbase. This show has social commentary revolving around political issues and satirical comments. This how’s impact on animation is undeniable to its viewers.

18) Better Call Saul

Patrick Fabian Speaks At The Cambridge Union - Source: Getty
Patrick Fabian Speaks At The Cambridge Union - Source: Getty

Many critics have said Better Call Saul surpasses its predecessor and is one of the finest television series. Though a subjective opinion, it is difficult to deny the masterful exploration of the characters in the show. Along with masterful storytelling, the cast's performance is exceptional. The themes of regret and redemption have been deeply explored in this series. It is nuanced and has attention to detail.

19) Frasier

47th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Source: Getty
47th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Source: Getty

This series delves into the character of Frasier Crane and provides a solid foundation. Effectively leveraging Frasier’s wit and personality, the creators of this show have made this series engaging and unique. This show has comedy that is elevated along with insightful social commentary. According to the viewers, Frasier has become a cultural phenomenon and has influenced several sitcoms. The family dynamics, relationships, and self-acceptance in this series are enjoyed by its huge fanbase.

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Edited by Debanjana