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The 10 Best Spin-Off Shows of All Time, Ranked
Collider has published a ranked list of the ten best television spin-off shows of all time, arguing that spin-offs are risky because isolating one character or storyline from a successful ensemble series often fails to recapture the original's appeal, as seen with flops like Joey and The Finder. The article contends that the best spin-offs succeed by carving out a distinct tone, narrative and purpose rather than simply repeating the formula of their parent show, allowing them to appeal to both existing fans and newcomers.
The list highlights entries such as Laverne & Shirley, a Happy Days spin-off praised for celebrating female friendship ahead of its time, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, singled out as a rare spin-off that arguably surpassed its original in cultural impact, driven by the long-running performances of Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni. Other shows referenced include The Jeffersons, a spin-off of All in the Family. The full ranking continues through further classic and modern examples across decades of American television.
– Collider ranks the ten greatest TV spin-offs ever made – Laverne & Shirley and Law & Order: SVU feature prominently – Article argues distinct tone and purpose separate hits from flops
Explained simply
A television spin-off is a new series created from a character or storyline taken from an existing show. Networks frequently develop spin-offs to capitalise on the success of popular programmes, making them a significant part of television history. However, spin-offs are notoriously difficult to get right, as removing a character from their original context often fails to maintain the original show's appeal.
The best spin-offs succeed by developing their own distinct identity, tone and purpose rather than simply repeating the formula of their parent show. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is a notable example of a spin-off that arguably became more culturally significant than the original series, whilst many others have faded into obscurity. This makes spin-offs a fascinating case study in how television storytelling evolves and adapts.
A new ranking by Collider examines the ten greatest television spin-offs of all time, reviewing classic examples from decades of American television. The list includes shows such as Laverne & Shirley, which spun off from Happy Days, and The Jeffersons, which originated from All in the Family.