TV Spinoffs: 20 Shows That Expanded Their Universe

Hey there, TV buffs! Ever get that feeling when you finish an amazing show and you're just left wanting more? Well, you're not alone! Some TV shows are so epic, so full of awesome characters and storylines, that they just can't be contained in one series. That's where spinoffs come in, guys! Today, we're diving into the world of TV shows that expanded their universes with spinoffs, giving us even more of the stories and characters we love. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore these fantastic TV universes!

Why Spinoffs Work: Extending the Magic

Spinoffs are a fantastic way to keep the magic alive. They allow us to delve deeper into a world we're already invested in, exploring different facets, characters, and storylines that might not have fit into the original series. Think of it like this: the original show is the main course, and the spinoffs are the delicious side dishes that complement the meal. They enhance the overall experience and give us a more complete picture of the universe.

One of the key reasons spinoffs resonate with audiences is the built-in familiarity. We already know and love the world, the tone, and maybe even some of the characters. This gives the spinoff a head start in terms of audience engagement. We're more likely to tune in to a show that feels like a comfortable return to a familiar place, rather than starting from scratch with something entirely new. This pre-existing connection is a powerful draw, and it's why networks often greenlight spinoffs of successful shows.

But it's not just about familiarity. A good spinoff also offers something new and unique. It might focus on a different character's perspective, explore a previously unexplored corner of the world, or delve into a different genre while still maintaining the core essence of the original series. This balance between the familiar and the new is crucial for a successful spinoff. It needs to feel like a natural extension of the original while also standing on its own two feet as a compelling story.

Furthermore, spinoffs can also serve as a way to revitalize a franchise. If the original show has run its course or is starting to lose steam, a well-executed spinoff can inject fresh energy into the universe and attract a new audience. This can lead to a whole new wave of interest in the original series as well, as viewers discover the connection between the two shows. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved, from the creators and the network to the fans who get even more of the stories they love.

The Power of a Good Spinoff: A Deep Dive

A great spinoff does more than just rehash the original's success; it carves its own path while honoring the source material. It takes the established world and characters as a foundation, then builds something new and exciting upon it. This might mean focusing on a supporting character who always had potential for their own story, or exploring a different aspect of the world that was only hinted at in the original series. The key is to find a fresh angle that resonates with the audience while still feeling like it belongs in the same universe.

One of the most compelling aspects of a successful spinoff is its ability to expand on the lore and mythology of the original show. It can delve into the history of the world, introduce new factions and conflicts, and explore the complexities of the characters in greater depth. This not only enriches the overall viewing experience but also provides ample opportunities for future storylines and crossovers. The more intricate and well-developed the universe becomes, the more invested the audience will be in its fate.

Consider, for instance, the way some spinoffs handle character development. They might take a character who was initially presented as a sidekick or antagonist and give them a chance to shine in their own right. This allows us to see these characters from a new perspective, understand their motivations, and perhaps even sympathize with them. It's a powerful way to add layers to the story and challenge our preconceived notions. A well-developed character arc in a spinoff can be just as compelling, if not more so, than the arcs in the original series.

Moreover, spinoffs offer a chance to experiment with different genres and tones within the same universe. A gritty crime drama might spawn a lighter, more comedic spinoff, or a fantasy epic could lead to a more grounded, character-driven story. This variety keeps the universe fresh and engaging, preventing it from becoming stale or repetitive. It also allows different types of viewers to find something they enjoy within the same overall framework. The flexibility to explore different genres is a major strength of the spinoff model.

Top 20 TV Shows That Spun Off Into New Series

Alright, guys, let's get to the good stuff! Here are 20 TV shows that not only captivated us on their own but also launched successful spinoffs, expanding their universes and giving us even more to love:

1. Star Trek: The OG of spinoffs! From The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine to Voyager, Enterprise, Discovery, Picard, and Lower Decks, Star Trek has boldly gone where no franchise has gone before. Star Trek's incredible success lies in its ability to constantly reinvent itself while staying true to its core values of exploration, diversity, and optimism. Each spinoff offers a unique perspective on the Star Trek universe, exploring different eras, characters, and themes. For example, The Next Generation took the baton from the original series and ran with it, introducing iconic characters like Captain Picard and Data. Deep Space Nine delved into darker, more morally ambiguous storylines, while Voyager stranded its crew on the other side of the galaxy, forcing them to find their way home. The more recent additions, such as Discovery and Picard, have continued to push the boundaries of the Star Trek universe, exploring new technologies, social issues, and character complexities. The franchise's longevity is a testament to its enduring appeal, and its commitment to telling thought-provoking stories. The various series have allowed the Star Trek universe to remain fresh and relevant across generations of viewers. Each spinoff brings something new to the table, whether it's a different style of storytelling, a unique set of characters, or a fresh perspective on the Star Trek philosophy. This constant evolution ensures that the franchise never feels stale or repetitive, and it's why Star Trek continues to thrive decades after its debut. The depth and breadth of the Star Trek universe are truly remarkable, and the spinoffs have played a crucial role in shaping its legacy. They've allowed us to explore countless worlds, meet fascinating aliens, and grapple with complex moral dilemmas. And as long as there are new stories to tell, the Star Trek universe will continue to expand and inspire.

2. NCIS: This naval crime drama spawned NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Hawai'i, proving that crime-solving is a universal language. The NCIS franchise is a masterclass in procedural storytelling, combining intriguing cases with compelling character dynamics. Each spinoff brings its own unique flavor to the formula, while still maintaining the core elements that make NCIS so popular. NCIS: Los Angeles introduced a fast-paced, action-oriented approach, with undercover operations and high-stakes missions. NCIS: New Orleans delved into the vibrant culture of the Crescent City, showcasing the unique challenges faced by law enforcement in that region. And NCIS: Hawai'i brought the beautiful scenery of the islands to the forefront, while exploring the complexities of international crime. The success of the NCIS franchise can be attributed to its strong ensemble casts, its well-written scripts, and its ability to tackle timely and relevant issues. Each episode presents a new puzzle to be solved, keeping viewers engaged and entertained. But it's the relationships between the characters that truly drive the series, creating a sense of camaraderie and loyalty that resonates with audiences. The spinoffs have also allowed the franchise to explore different aspects of naval criminal investigation, from cybercrime to terrorism. This variety keeps the franchise fresh and allows it to appeal to a wider audience. The enduring popularity of NCIS and its spinoffs is a testament to the power of a well-crafted procedural drama. It's a franchise that consistently delivers high-quality entertainment, and its continued success is a testament to its enduring appeal.

3. Law & Order: With Special Victims Unit, Criminal Intent, Trial by Jury, LA, and Organized Crime, this franchise knows how to deliver justice. The Law & Order franchise is a titan of television crime drama, renowned for its gritty realism, its complex characters, and its ripped-from-the-headlines storylines. Each spinoff brings a unique perspective to the criminal justice system, exploring different facets of the law and order process. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has become a cultural phenomenon, tackling sensitive and important issues related to sexual assault and domestic violence. Its longevity is a testament to its powerful storytelling and its commitment to raising awareness about these critical issues. Law & Order: Criminal Intent delved into the minds of the criminals, exploring their motivations and the psychological complexities of their crimes. Law & Order: Trial by Jury focused on the courtroom drama, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the legal process. Law & Order: LA brought the franchise to the West Coast, showcasing the unique challenges of law enforcement in Los Angeles. And Law & Order: Organized Crime tackles the complex world of organized crime, with a focus on long-term investigations and intricate conspiracies. The success of the Law & Order franchise lies in its ability to reflect the realities of crime and justice in America. It's a franchise that doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and it consistently delivers thought-provoking and engaging television. The characters are complex and flawed, and the storylines are often morally ambiguous. This realism is a key part of the franchise's appeal, and it's why Law & Order continues to resonate with audiences after decades on the air.

4. The Flash/Arrow: The Arrowverse is a superhero extravaganza with Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, Batwoman, and Superman & Lois. The Arrowverse is a testament to the power of interconnected storytelling, bringing together a diverse cast of superheroes in a shared universe. Arrow paved the way for the Arrowverse, establishing a gritty and grounded take on the superhero genre. The Flash introduced a more lighthearted and optimistic tone, while still tackling serious issues. Supergirl brought a message of hope and empowerment, focusing on the importance of standing up for what's right. Legends of Tomorrow embraced the wackier side of the superhero genre, with time-traveling adventures and a quirky ensemble cast. Batwoman added a new layer of diversity to the Arrowverse, with a lesbian superhero at its helm. And Superman & Lois explores the challenges of balancing superhero duties with family life. The success of the Arrowverse can be attributed to its strong character development, its exciting action sequences, and its commitment to tackling social issues. The crossovers between the shows have become major events, bringing together the heroes to face epic threats. This interconnectedness is a key part of the Arrowverse's appeal, creating a sense of community and shared history. The characters feel like real people with real problems, and their struggles resonate with audiences. The Arrowverse has proven that superhero storytelling can be both entertaining and meaningful, and it has paved the way for other interconnected superhero universes on television.

5. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation branched out with CSI: Miami, CSI: NY, and CSI: Cyber, showcasing the science of solving crime across the US. The CSI franchise revolutionized the procedural crime drama, with its focus on forensic science and its visually stunning crime scene recreations. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation set the standard for the franchise, introducing viewers to the world of crime scene investigation and the meticulous work of the forensic scientists. CSI: Miami brought the sunshine and glamour of South Florida to the forefront, while still delivering compelling crime stories. CSI: NY explored the grit and intensity of New York City, with a darker and more atmospheric tone. And CSI: Cyber delved into the world of cybercrime, tackling the ever-evolving threats of the digital age. The success of the CSI franchise lies in its ability to make science accessible and engaging. The shows break down complex forensic techniques into easy-to-understand concepts, and the crime scene recreations are both visually impressive and informative. The characters are also a key part of the franchise's appeal, with their unique personalities and their dedication to solving crimes. The CSI franchise has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing the way people think about forensic science and inspiring a new generation of crime scene investigators. The shows have also raised awareness about the importance of forensic evidence in criminal investigations, and they have helped to demystify the world of crime scene investigation.

6. Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Angel took one of Buffy's most complex characters and gave him his own brooding, supernatural drama. Angel is a spinoff that stands on its own as a complex and compelling series, exploring the darker side of the Buffyverse. The show follows Angel, the vampire with a soul, as he moves to Los Angeles and establishes a detective agency to help those who are being preyed upon by supernatural forces. Angel delves into themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the struggle against inner demons. The show is known for its complex characters, its morally ambiguous storylines, and its willingness to tackle difficult topics. Angel also features several crossovers with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, allowing fans to see their favorite characters interact in new and interesting ways. The show's success can be attributed to its strong writing, its talented cast, and its ability to create a unique and compelling world. Angel is a must-watch for fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but it's also a great show for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy and character-driven drama. The show's themes of redemption and self-discovery resonate with audiences, and its exploration of the human condition is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.

7. Grey's Anatomy: Private Practice followed Addison Montgomery as she moved to Los Angeles and joined a private practice, adding a new layer to the medical drama. Private Practice is a spinoff that expands on the world of Grey's Anatomy, exploring the lives and loves of a group of doctors in Los Angeles. The show focuses on Addison Montgomery, a neonatal surgeon who leaves Seattle Grace Hospital to join a private practice run by her friends. Private Practice delves into the complexities of relationships, family dynamics, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional lives. The show is known for its strong female characters, its emotionally resonant storylines, and its willingness to tackle difficult topics. Private Practice also features several crossovers with Grey's Anatomy, allowing fans to see their favorite characters interact in new and interesting ways. The show's success can be attributed to its talented cast, its well-written scripts, and its ability to create a relatable and engaging world. Private Practice is a must-watch for fans of Grey's Anatomy, but it's also a great show for anyone who enjoys medical dramas and character-driven stories. The show's exploration of relationships and family dynamics resonates with audiences, and its focus on female empowerment is both inspiring and uplifting.

8. The Vampire Diaries: The Originals shifted the focus to the Mikaelson family in New Orleans, while Legacies follows the next generation of supernatural beings. The Vampire Diaries universe is a sprawling and complex world filled with vampires, werewolves, witches, and other supernatural creatures. The Originals takes the Mikaelson family, the original vampires, and places them in New Orleans, where they must navigate the city's intricate political landscape. The Originals delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the struggle for power. Legacies follows the next generation of supernatural beings at the Salvatore School for the Young and Gifted, exploring their relationships, their powers, and the challenges they face. The Legacies universe is known for its fast-paced storylines, its romantic entanglements, and its blend of supernatural drama and teen angst. The success of the Vampire Diaries universe can be attributed to its strong character development, its compelling storylines, and its ability to create a world that is both exciting and relatable. The characters are complex and flawed, and their relationships are often fraught with drama. The Vampire Diaries universe is a must-watch for fans of supernatural dramas, but it's also a great choice for anyone who enjoys character-driven stories and soapy entertainment. The franchise's exploration of love, loss, and the challenges of growing up resonates with audiences, and its blend of supernatural elements and human drama is both captivating and addictive.

9. Supernatural: A couple of attempts were made, but Supernatural: Bloodlines didn't quite catch on, though there's always potential for more monster hunting in this world. Supernatural is a long-running fantasy horror series that follows the Winchester brothers as they hunt monsters and demons across America. The show is known for its compelling characters, its intricate mythology, and its blend of horror, humor, and heart. Supernatural has a dedicated fanbase, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to connect with audiences. Supernatural: Bloodlines was an attempt to expand the Supernatural universe, but it ultimately failed to capture the magic of the original series. However, the Supernatural world is vast and filled with possibilities, and there is always potential for future spinoffs. The show's mythology is rich and complex, and there are countless stories that could be told within its framework. Supernatural's exploration of family, sacrifice, and the fight against evil resonates with audiences, and its blend of genres makes it a unique and compelling series. The show's dedicated fanbase is eager for more Supernatural content, and it's likely that we'll see more attempts to expand the universe in the future.

10. Breaking Bad: Better Call Saul has become a critically acclaimed prequel, exploring the transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman. Better Call Saul is a prequel that has surpassed expectations, becoming a critical darling in its own right. The show delves into the backstory of Saul Goodman, the morally ambiguous lawyer from Breaking Bad, exploring his transformation from the well-meaning Jimmy McGill into the Saul we know and love (or love to hate). Better Call Saul is known for its slow-burn storytelling, its complex characters, and its stunning cinematography. The show is a masterclass in character development, and its exploration of Jimmy's descent into darkness is both compelling and heartbreaking. Better Call Saul also features several characters from Breaking Bad, allowing fans to see their favorites in a new light. The show's success can be attributed to its strong writing, its talented cast, and its ability to create a world that is both familiar and fresh. Better Call Saul is a must-watch for fans of Breaking Bad, but it's also a great show for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas and intricate storytelling. The show's exploration of morality, ambition, and the consequences of our choices resonates with audiences, and its slow-burn approach allows the characters and the story to develop in a natural and compelling way.

11. The Cosby Show: A Different World offered a look at college life, focusing on Denise Huxtable's experiences at Hillman College. A Different World is a spinoff that carved its own path, becoming a beloved sitcom in its own right. The show follows Denise Huxtable as she attends Hillman College, a fictional historically black college. A Different World tackles issues of race, class, and identity, while also exploring the joys and challenges of college life. The show is known for its strong ensemble cast, its witty writing, and its positive portrayal of black students and culture. A Different World became a cultural touchstone, inspiring a generation of young people to pursue higher education. The show's success can be attributed to its relatable characters, its engaging storylines, and its commitment to addressing important social issues. A Different World is a must-watch for fans of classic sitcoms, but it's also a relevant and important show for anyone interested in issues of race and identity. The show's positive message of empowerment and education resonates with audiences, and its celebration of black culture is both inspiring and uplifting.

12. Happy Days: Laverne & Shirley and Mork & Mindy both spun off from this classic sitcom, proving the power of quirky characters. Happy Days is a classic sitcom that spawned two successful spinoffs, Laverne & Shirley and Mork & Mindy. This demonstrates the power of well-developed characters and the appeal of expanding a beloved universe. Laverne & Shirley followed the comedic adventures of two working-class women in Milwaukee, while Mork & Mindy introduced a wacky alien named Mork to the world. Both spinoffs captured the spirit of Happy Days while also forging their own unique identities. Happy Days' success in launching spinoffs can be attributed to its strong writing, its talented cast, and its ability to create relatable characters. The show's focus on family and friendship resonated with audiences, and its nostalgic setting made it a comforting and enjoyable watch. Happy Days and its spinoffs are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic sitcoms, and they continue to entertain audiences today.

13. All in the Family: Maude, The Jeffersons, and Gloria all branched out from this groundbreaking sitcom, tackling social issues with humor and heart. All in the Family is a groundbreaking sitcom that spawned three successful spinoffs, Maude, The Jeffersons, and Gloria. This is a testament to the show's impact on television and its ability to create complex and relatable characters. All in the Family tackled social issues head-on, using humor and heart to explore controversial topics. Maude followed the outspoken Maude Findlay as she navigated her personal and political life, while The Jeffersons focused on an African American family moving up in the world. Gloria explored the life of Gloria Stivic after her divorce. All in the Family's success in launching spinoffs can be attributed to its willingness to push boundaries and its commitment to telling stories that mattered. The show's characters were flawed but lovable, and their struggles resonated with audiences. All in the Family and its spinoffs are a reminder of the power of television to spark conversations and challenge our perspectives.

14. Xena: Warrior Princess: Hercules: The Legendary Journeys actually came first, but Xena became so popular she got her own show, expanding the mythological world. Xena: Warrior Princess is a spinoff that surpassed its predecessor in popularity, becoming a cultural icon in its own right. The show follows Xena, a warrior seeking redemption for her past misdeeds, as she travels the ancient world fighting for justice. Xena: Warrior Princess is known for its strong female lead, its action-packed fight sequences, and its blend of mythology and fantasy. The show's success can be attributed to its empowering message, its compelling characters, and its willingness to challenge traditional gender roles. Xena: Warrior Princess has a dedicated fanbase, and its influence can be seen in many other fantasy and action shows. The show's exploration of themes such as redemption, forgiveness, and the power of women resonates with audiences, and its legacy continues to inspire.

15. Cheers: Frasier followed Dr. Frasier Crane back to Seattle, becoming one of the most successful sitcom spinoffs of all time. Frasier is a spinoff that achieved unprecedented success, becoming one of the most acclaimed and beloved sitcoms in television history. The show follows Dr. Frasier Crane as he moves back to Seattle and starts a new life as a radio psychiatrist. Frasier is known for its witty writing, its sophisticated humor, and its stellar cast. The show's success can be attributed to its sharp dialogue, its relatable characters, and its exploration of themes such as family, relationships, and personal growth. Frasier has won numerous awards, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to connect with audiences. The show's exploration of the complexities of human relationships resonates with viewers, and its witty and intelligent humor makes it a timeless classic.

16. The Practice: Boston Legal shifted the focus to the more eccentric lawyers at the firm, creating a legal dramedy with a unique tone. Boston Legal is a spinoff that distinguished itself from its predecessor, The Practice, by embracing a more comedic and eccentric tone. The show follows a group of lawyers at a Boston law firm as they handle high-profile cases and navigate their personal lives. Boston Legal is known for its sharp writing, its compelling characters, and its willingness to tackle controversial issues. The show's success can be attributed to its talented cast, its thought-provoking storylines, and its blend of legal drama and dark humor. Boston Legal has won numerous awards, and its unique tone and style have made it a fan favorite. The show's exploration of morality, ethics, and the complexities of the legal system resonates with audiences, and its witty and intelligent writing makes it a must-watch for fans of legal dramas.

17. Pretty Little Liars: Ravenswood and Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists attempted to extend the mystery, but neither lasted as long as the original. Pretty Little Liars is a teen drama that captivated audiences with its intricate mysteries and its compelling characters. The show follows a group of friends who are stalked and tormented by an anonymous figure known as