10 TV Spin-Offs That Were Surprisingly Better Than The Original

Young Sheldon ( The Big Bang Theory, 2017-present)

Ever wondered what the eccentric, socially inept Sheldon Cooper was like as a kid? Well, Young Sheldon is here to satisfy your curiosity.

The Big Bang Theory's prequel takes us back to East Texas in the late '80s and early '90s, where a nine-year-old Sheldon is starting high school. Can you imagine the trouble a child genius would have fitting in with teenagers and living with a family that doesn't quite understand him? It's a bit like a fish out of water, and believe me, it's as entertaining as it sounds.

While The Big Bang Theory had its charms, many fans find Young Sheldon's exploration of Sheldon's formative years and family dynamics to be more grounded and emotionally engaging. Wholesome, even, especially in earlier seasons. Who doesn't love a coming-of-age story mixed with a good dose of comedy? And Young Sheldon delivers just that.

The Originals (The Vampire Diaries, 2013-2018)

Instead of just being the side characters in TVD world, Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah Mikaelson stepped into the spotlight, taking us back to their old haunt, New Orleans.

The city of jazz and magic offered a perfect backdrop for the thousand-year-old vampires and their century-long feuds. I'm talking family drama, power struggles, supernatural politics, and a good dose of that vampire charm we all know and love.

And honestly, many fans believe that The Originals, with its focus on the fascinating Mikaelson family dynamics and the rich history of New Orleans, offered a more engaging narrative than its parent show with its somewhat tired love triangle.

Xena: Warrior Princess (Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, 1995-2001)

From the heroic exploits of Hercules came a spin-off focused on a character who, dare I say, turned out to be even more popular. Initially introduced as a ruthless warlord, Xena sought redemption for her past, fighting for the greater good with her trusty sidekick Gabrielle.

The show was filled with mythical creatures, epic battles, touching friendship, and even some commentary on social issues of the time. With a greater focus on its characters and their growth, Xena often surpassed Hercules in depth and emotional impact, and we have to hand it to Lucy Lawless – she did a brilliant job bringing Xena to life.

Angel (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 1999-2004)

Did you ever watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer? If you did, then you probably know about its darker, grittier spin-off, Angel.

Instead of sunny (yet hellmouth-y) Sunnydale, we followed the vampire-with-a-soul Angel to Los Angeles, the city of broken dreams. While battling his own demons (both figurative and literal), Angel sets up a detective agency to "help the helpless".

I'm talking about dark alleys, tougher enemies, moral ambiguities, and of course, occasional crossovers with Buffy. Many fans argue that Angel, with its noir vibe and complex character arcs, actually managed to outdo Buffy in terms of depth and storytelling.

Daria (Beavis and Butt-Head, 1997-2002)

Remember the often irritating, occasionally hilarious duo of Beavis and Butt-Head? Well, from their world emerged a character so sharp, so relatable, that she got her own spin-off. Yes, I'm talking about Daria Morgendorffer, the smart and acerbically witty high school student who navigates the banalities and absurdities of teenage life.

Daria gave us a social commentary on high school and suburban life, peppered with plenty of dry wit. A far cry from the mindless antics of Beavis and Butt-Head, Daria quickly garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, and quite deservingly so.

Better Call Saul ( Breaking Bad, 2015-2022)

Better Call Saul, the spin-off from the dark and intensely gripping Breaking Bad, doesn't actually need an introduction.

While the original show focused on the metamorphosis of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturing drug dealer, Better Call Saul takes a different route. It peers into the life of a small-time lawyer struggling with his conscience, as he gradually transforms into his alter ego, the morally bankrupt lawyer Saul Goodman, whom we meet in Breaking Bad.

The show currently boasts a stunning 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has, in some viewers' eyes, surpassed its predecessor in terms of storytelling and character development.

Frasier (Cheers, 1993-2004)

So, have you ever hung out in a bar where everybody knows your name? If you have, then you're probably familiar with the TV show Cheers. But did you know about its spin-off, Frasier?

Kelsey Grammer reprises his role as the pompous yet endearing psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane who, after his marriage ends, moves back to his hometown of Seattle. Instead of continuing his bar-hopping days, Frasier starts a new chapter of his life as a radio psychiatrist.

Despite the switch from the warmth of a Boston bar to the cool sophistication of a Seattle high-rise apartment, Frasier captured hearts with its witty dialogue and intricate relationships. The show's ratings and critical reception were impressive, often overshadowing Cheers. So yes, in this case, the student did surpass the master.

The Flash ( Arrow, 2014-2022)

Remember Arrow? The TV show about a playboy turned vigilante archer? Well, from its shadows sprung forth a spin-off, The Flash, a series that focuses on Barry Allen, a forensic scientist who gains superhuman speed after a freak accident.

While Arrow was a bit too brooding for some, The Flash injected a sense of fun and lightheartedness into the superhero genre. Now, we're talking about a man in a red suit who can run faster than the speed of light. Who wouldn't find that entertaining?

The show's success, marked by strong ratings and a dedicated fanbase, suggests that sometimes, a lighter touch can indeed outshine a darker tone – although Oliver reuniting with Barry for one last ride was quite emotional.

The Legend of Korra (Avatar: The Last Airbender, 2012-2014)

If you were swept away by the magic and mystique of Avatar: The Last Airbender, its spin-off The Legend of Korra might have surprised you. Diving deeper into the spiritual and sociopolitical aspects of the Avatar universe, the sequel series introduced a new avatar, Korra. She's tough, she's hot-headed, she's got some massive boots to fill, and boy, does she deliver!

The Legend of Korra beautifully explores the complexities of power, duty, and balance, taking viewers on a journey that, for some, even surpasses that of its predecessor.

Torchwood (Doctor Who, 2006-2011)

The universe of the long-running British show expanded with its spin-off, Torchwood, and did so beautifully. Torchwood, though, isn't about intergalactic adventures and quirky aliens. Oh no, Torchwood deals with the grittier side of defending Earth.

Led by the charismatic Captain Jack Harkness, former companion of the Doctor, Torchwood isn't afraid to delve into the darker, more complex moral issues that come with fighting extraterrestrial threats.

Its mature themes and more grounded setting have endeared it to an audience that appreciates a grimmer take on the Doctor Who universe. Not all spin-offs need to follow in the exact footsteps of their parent show, and Torchwood brilliantly forged its own path.