There’s something uniquely fun about a TV spin-off – it’s like revisiting old friends in a new place or meeting side characters – ones that you thought you would never meet again but hadn’t realized you wanted to know better.
What’s also oddly thrilling about spin-offs is how they surprise us. Some go in directions we never expected. And in certain instances, these shows even outshine their original outings, taking on lives of their own. (And no, shows like How I Met Your Father do not get a mention on this list) Here’s a ranking of 30 of the best TV spin-offs ever, considering their popularity, quality, and if they indeed, lived up to or superseded the original.
30. Joey (NBC)
Spun From: Friends
Original Airdates: 2004–2006
When Friends ended, NBC wasn’t ready to say goodbye entirely, so they took the next logical step: give Joey Tribbiani, the lovable goofball played by Matt LeBlanc, his own series. With the love the character enjoyed, studios would’ve thought it was a home run. Joey follows the character as he moves to Los Angeles, trying to make it as an actor and create a new life for himself.
It seemed like a good idea on paper, but it didn’t capture the same magic. Joey struggled without the chemistry of his original crew, and though it had moments of humor, it just couldn’t match Friends in charm or staying power.
29. Private Practice (ABC)
Spun From: Grey’s Anatomy
Original Airdates: 2007–2013
Taking Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh) out of the Grey’s Anatomy hospital drama and into her practice in California, Private Practice gave her a chance to shine outside of Seattle – a recurring theme in this list. Addison, who was initially introduced as the “other woman” in Derek and Meredith’s story, evolved into a character audiences loved, which is why Shonda Rhimes thought she could carry her show.
The series leaned into medical drama but with a small splash of California sunshine. Though it found a loyal following, it didn’t quite reach the same cult status as Grey’s, and some fans missed the chemistry of the original cast.
28. The Cleveland Show (Fox)
Spun From: Family Guy
Original Airdates: 2009–2013
Seth MacFarlane’s The Cleveland Show took a background character from Family Guy, Cleveland Brown, and gave him a starring role in a TV show. The series follows Cleveland as he moves back to his hometown, marries his high school sweetheart, and finds himself dealing with a new family dynamic.
While Family Guy fans might appreciate some of the humor, The Cleveland Show didn’t quite stand out from its predecessor. Although it had a few standout episodes and added some diversity to the animated sitcom scene, it wasn’t able to live up to the zany, over-the-top charm of Family Guy.
27. Young Sheldon (CBS)
Spun From: The Big Bang Theory
Original Airdates: 2017–present
Young Sheldon moves the focus from the full nerdy adult gang on The Big Bang Theory to just one character — Sheldon Cooper — and his life growing up as a genius in a small Texas town. We see his family life, particularly his close relationship with his mother and his struggles fitting in as a gifted kid in a regular school.
Young Sheldon brings a softer, more heartfelt tone than its parent show, with more family-centered humor. Fans of Big Bang get a deeper look into what made Sheldon the quirky character they love.
26. Angel (The WB)
Spun From: Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Original Airdates: 1999–2004
When the vampire-with-a-soul, Angel (David Boreanaz), left Buffy the Vampire Slayer, he got his own show and headed to Los Angeles to become a supernatural detective. Angel dived into darker and murkier territory than Buffy, focusing on themes like redemption, morality, and the challenge of doing the right thing in a world filled with evil.
Angel’s brooding presence fit the tone perfectly, and with a mix of supernatural action and strong character arcs, Angel quickly found a fan base that it could call its own. It may not have had Buffy’s chops, but there is a cult appreciation for this one.
25. Good Times (CBS)
Spun From: Maude
Original Airdates: 1974–1979
Starting as a spin-off of Maude, Good Times took Florida Evans, the former maid of Maude, and put her family front and center. Set in a Chicago housing project, Good Times tackled serious issues facing African American families with heart and an unflinching honesty for its time.
Jimmie Walker’s character J.J. became a breakout star with his signature catchphrase “Dy-no-mite!” But it was the whole Evans family that made the show resonate with a larger audience — facing hardships with resilience, Good Times gave a voice to stories rarely seen on TV in the 70s.
24. NCIS (CBS)
Spun From: JAG
Original Airdates: 2003–present
While JAG was more focused on courtroom drama within the military, NCIS found its niche as a procedural that mixed crime-solving with a bit of quirky humor. Led by Mark Harmon’s stern but lovable Gibbs, NCIS introduced a team of specialists handling crimes related to the Navy and Marine Corps.
The show’s combination of forensic science, intriguing cases, and memorable characters struck a chord, launching it into a phenomenon with multiple spin-offs of its own. Today, NCIS is a procedural powerhouse, proving its persistent power year after year.
23. A Different World (NBC)
Spun From: The Cosby Show
Original Airdates: 1987–1993
Originally focused on Denise Huxtable’s college experience, A Different World quickly found its own rhythm when Denise left and the show refocused on an ensemble cast of students at Hillman College, a fictional HBCU (Historically Black College/University). It tackled big issues like race, gender, and economic disparity with sensitivity; no wonder it resonates deeply with certain audiences.
It became especially popular for its honest portrayal of Black college life, creating an impact that went beyond TV. It is this show’s characters that made it one of the more impactful spin-offs of its time.
22. Melrose Place (Fox)
Spun From: Beverly Hills, 90210
Original Airdates: 1992–1999
Melrose Place was a spin-off from 90210, originally intended to bring a more mature tone to the hit teen show’s audience. It, however, quickly found its own voice (and ratings) with over-the-top storylines. Heather Locklear’s Amanda Woodward, a ruthless advertising exec, stole the show and became one of TV’s most iconic villains.
The series thrived on simplistic and dramatic twists, like love triangles, shocking betrayals, and of course, that unforgettable pool scene. Melrose Place became a soap opera sensation in its own right, thanks to its unabashed embrace of scandal.
21. Fear the Walking Dead (AMC)
Spun From: The Walking Dead
Original Airdates: 2015–present
Fear the Walking Dead took fans back to the early days of the zombie apocalypse, a period The Walking Dead had largely skipped over. Set in Los Angeles (and later in various other locations), the show explores how ordinary people’s lives are shattered by the emergence of zombies.
Though it began as a prequel, Fear has developed its own identity, characters, and storylines over time. Fans of The Walking Dead get a fresh perspective on familiar horrors, though some felt it lacked the intense drama of the original. Over time, however, it has carved out its place in the franchise.
20. Mork & Mindy (ABC)
Spun From: Happy Days
Original Airdates: 1978–1982
When Happy Days introduced Mork, an alien played by Robin Williams, many were intrigued by his quirky, offbeat humor. As it often happens with Williams, the character was so popular that he eventually got his own show — Mork & Mindy — set in Boulder, Colorado, where Mork tries to learn about human life and figure out Earth’s seemingly strange customs.
Robin Williams’ performance brought the show to life with his improvisational brilliance and physical comedy, making Mork one of the most beloved characters of his time. Mork & Mindy, when looking back, was a unique mix of sci-fi and comedy, and it became a pop culture hit thanks to Williams’ energy.
19. Torchwood (BBC)
Spun From: Doctor Who
Original Airdates: 2006–2011
As one of Doctor Who’s most ambitious spin-offs, Torchwood took a darker, edgier approach to the Doctor Who universe. Focusing on Captain Jack Harkness, an immortal character first introduced on Doctor Who, Torchwood explores his work with a covert organization investigating extraterrestrial threats.
The show was more raw than its parent series, with relatively mature themes, complex character relationships, and high-stakes stories. Torchwood gave fans of Doctor Who a fresh, intense look into the world beyond the Doctor’s adventures.
18. The Jeffersons (CBS)
Spun From: All in the Family
Original Airdates: 1975–1985
Spinning off from All in the Family, The Jeffersons followed George and Louise Jefferson, the Bunkers’ Black neighbors, as they “moved on up” from Queens to the Upper East Side of Manhattan. With a mix of humor and social commentary, The Jeffersons addressed issues like racism, class, and family in a way that was accessible and memorable.
Sherman Hemsley and Isabel Sanford brought so much charisma to George and Louise, the show had to be a major hit. It ran for over a decade and remains a classic in the genre of sitcoms that aren’t afraid to tackle tough issues.
17. The Colbert Report (Comedy Central)
Spun From: The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Original Airdates: 2005–2014
What started as a parody of conservative punditry on The Daily Show evolved into one of the funniest and sharpest political satire shows on television. Stephen Colbert, as the fictionalized version of himself, took on issues with a satirical taste, lampooning everyone from politicians to media personalities.
The Colbert Report wasn’t just funny; it was so much more than that – insightful and pushing viewers to think critically about media and politics. Colbert’s “character” became so well-known that when he moved to The Late Show, fans mourned the loss of his satirical alter-ego. For nine years, The Colbert Report was a comedic tour-de-force in late-night TV.
16. Flash (CW)
Spun From: Arrow
Original Airdates: 2014–2023
When Barry Allen made his first appearance in Arrow, fans immediately latched onto his quick-on-the-feet feel and compelling backstory. The Flash took the fast-paced hero and gave him his own story, filled with villains, close relationships, and big moral questions.
It brought a lighter, more hopeful tone to the CW’s superhero lineup, perhaps, in an attempt to balance action with heartwarming moments. Grant Gustin’s portrayal of Barry made the character both relatable and heroic, winning the show a loyal fanbase and ensuring it became one of the CW’s most popular series.
15. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (NBC)
Spun From: Law & Order
Original Airdates: 1999–present
SVU took the classic Law & Order formula and added an emotional depth by focusing on crimes of sexual violence and abuse. Led by Mariska Hargitay as Detective Olivia Benson, the series went beyond the typical procedural format, developing character arcs that highlighted the impact of these cases on both victims and detectives.
Hargitay’s performance made Benson an iconic character in TV history, and her dedication to the role has made SVU one of the longest-running dramas on television. With its sensitive handling of difficult topics, SVU found a loyal fan base and inspired other shows to take on similar subjects.
14. House of the Dragon (HBO)
Spun From: Game of Thrones
Original Airdates: 2022–present
As a prequel to the highly successful Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon looks at the history of House Targaryen and the events leading to the infamous Civil War – the Dance of the Dragons.
With a promising start, and building on it with another impactful season, the series is picking up steam and is being appreciated by both audiences and critics for its high production value and complex characters. While it faces the challenge of living up to its predecessor’s legacy, its initial reception indicates that it may carve out its own identity.
13. The Mandalorian (Disney+)
Spun From: Star Wars Universe
Original Airdates: 2019–present
The Star Wars universe is rich with stories. But The Mandalorian became a true fan favorite thanks to its Western-inspired storytelling, new characters, and, of course, the introduction of “The Child” (aka Baby Yoda). How it’s shot and produced is a cherry on top for hardcore film-making enthusiasts.
Following Din Djarin, a lone bounty hunter through the galaxy, The Mandalorian has action, humor, and heart in a way that feels both fresh and rooted in classic Star Wars lore. It’s one of the most successful examples of a franchise spin-off and can capture the imagination of both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
12. Star Trek: The Next Generation (Syndicated)
Spun From: Star Trek
Original Airdates: 1987–1994
After the original Star Trek series became a cult classic, expectations were high for The Next Generation. Initially met with skepticism, TNG quickly won over fans with Patrick Stewart’s Captain Jean-Luc Picard and an incredible ensemble cast.
The show truly expanded on the Star Trek universe with more sophistication and became a phenomenon in its own right. TNG not only reinvigorated the franchise but set the stage for future Star Trek series. With its focus on philosophical themes and rich world-building, TNG remains a high point in the sci-fi genre.
11. The Andy Griffith Show (CBS)
Spun From: The Danny Thomas Show
Original Airdates: 1960–1968
The Andy Griffith Show introduced us to Mayberry, a small town filled with quirky, lovable characters led by the kind and wise Sheriff Andy Taylor. Originally appearing on The Danny Thomas Show, Griffith’s character became an instant hit, prompting CBS to give him his own series.
With its rather gentle humor and charming slice-of-life storytelling, The Andy Griffith Show is an enduring classic. Don Knotts as Barney Fife stole the show with his hilarious antics, and the series still holds a special place in the hearts of viewers for its wholesome depiction of small-town life.
10. CSI: Miami (CBS)
Spun From: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Original Airdates: 2002–2012
CSI: Miami took the hit forensic drama format of CSI and transplanted it to the sunny, sometimes seedy streets of Miami. David Caruso’s sunglasses-wearing, one-liner-dropping Horatio Caine became iconic, and the show was known for its dramatic style and intense cases.
With its vibrant colors and its unique vibe, CSI: Miami set itself apart and quickly became a fan favorite. The show maintained high ratings and eventually inspired a host of spin-offs within the CSI universe. While doing so, it kind of proved the point that crime scene investigation could be as compelling as it was entertaining.
9. Rhoda (CBS)
Spun From: The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Original Airdates: 1974–1978
As Mary Richards’ best friend on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Rhoda Morgenstern was so lovable that fans had to see more of her. Rhoda follows her life back in New York City, where she lives through tribulations of love, work, and family with her trademark wit and warmth.
Valerie Harper’s portrayal of Rhoda earned her an Emmy, and the show was celebrated for its funny, relatable take on single life in the city. The series managed to maintain the charm of Mary Tyler Moore while allowing Rhoda’s personality to shine.
8. Laverne & Shirley (ABC)
Spun From: Happy Days
Original Airdates: 1976–1983
Introduced as two factory workers on Happy Days, Laverne DeFazio (Penny Marshall) and Shirley Feeney (Cindy Williams) were such a hit that they knew more of it was required. Laverne & Shirley follow the two best friends who navigate work, relationships, and all kinds of wacky misadventures in 1950s Milwaukee.
The show’s slapstick humor and lovable, quirky characters quickly made it one of the top-rated sitcoms of its time. And Marshall and Williams’ chemistry was undeniable, with their portrayal of friendship making the show something special.
7. The Bionic Woman (ABC/NBC)
Spun From: The Six Million Dollar Man
Original Airdates: 1976–1978
The Bionic Woman follows Jaime Sommers, a former tennis pro who becomes a government agent after a near-fatal accident leaves her with bionic enhancements. The show offered an empowering female perspective within the action genre and was groundbreaking in its portrayal of a female superhero. Lindsay Wagner’s role as Jaime earned her a loyal fanbase, and The Bionic Woman became a sci-fi classic, inspiring later female-led action shows
6. Xena: Warrior Princess (Syndicated)
Spun From: Hercules: The Legendary Journeys
Original Airdates: 1995–2001
Xena started as a villain on Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, but her popularity was so intense that she was given her own show. Xena: Warrior Princess took the legendary Greek warrior and made her a hero, with themes of redemption, friendship, and courage littered across the show (Even though the show was intended for a younger audience).
Lucy Lawless became a cultural icon as Xena, and her adventures with Gabrielle became a staple for fans of fantasy and action. The show’s campy yet liberating style was a hit, and Xena remains a pioneering female character in the action genre.
5. Futurama (Fox)
Spun From: The Simpsons
Original Airdates: 1999–2013
When Matt Groening took his talents into the future with Futurama, he concocted a sci-fi comedy that would rival The Simpsons in wit and imagination. Following Fry, a slacker who wakes up 1,000 years in the future, and his misfit crew, Futurama became a cult classic for its clever jokes, touching moments, and satirical take on society.
While it didn’t reach The Simpsons‘ commercial success, it’s loved for its own voice in storytelling and the slew of memorable characters.
4. Better Call Saul (AMC)
Spun From: Breaking Bad
Original Airdates: 2015–2022
When Breaking Bad fans heard that Saul Goodman, Walter White’s hilariously shady and offbeat lawyer, was getting his show, the reaction was mixed. Could it really live up to Breaking Bad’s legacy? A fair concern, no doubt. However, not only did Better Call Saul succeed, it became a masterpiece and then some, giving us the complex, tragic backstory of Jimmy McGill (Saul’s real name).
The show takes a deep plunge into moral ambiguity, with brilliant performances from Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn, and has often been praised as one of the best prequels ever. For Breaking Bad fans, it would be a shame to miss this one.
3. Daria (MTV)
Spun From: Beavis and Butt-Head
Original Airdates: 1997–2002
Daria Morgendorffer’s dry wit and keen observations struck a chord with viewers who found themselves less than impressed with high school norms. Daria took this background character from Beavis and Butt-Head and put her into a world that perfectly matched her sarcasm and intellect.
The show became an interesting and alternate look at high school from the perspective of someone who didn’t fit in, making it a relatable favorite for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.
2. Frasier (NBC)
Spun From: Cheers
Original Airdates: 1993–2004
After Cheers ended, NBC took a gamble on Kelsey Grammer’s character, Frasier Crane, and it paid off in a big way. Frasier follows the psychiatrist’s life in Seattle, where he works as a radio host and tries to navigate relationships with his eccentric brother Niles, their gruff father Martin, and a host of other quirky characters.
Known for its witty, sophisticated humor, Frasier became a critical darling, winning a record 37 Emmy Awards. It’s one of those rare spin-offs that arguably surpassed its original in terms of both acclaim and popularity, remaining beloved for its smart writing and memorable cast.
1. The Simpsons (Fox)
Spun From: The Tracey Ullman Show
Original Airdates: 1989–present
Who could’ve guessed that a few animated shorts on The Tracey Ullman Show would turn into the longest-running scripted series in American television history? The Simpsons has been around since 1989, following the lives of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie in the town of Springfield.
Its sharp satire, memorable characters, and incredible cultural impact make The Simpsons one of the most iconic and well-remembered TV shows of all time. (It’s still going on!) It’s, moreover, been credited with influencing countless others, sometimes predicting the future, and remains beloved for its ability to capture (and skewer) the quirks of American life.
Whether you’re after the laughs, action, or drama, these spin-offs prove that sometimes, the second act is just as good (or better) than the first.
