What makes Television Spin-Offs a Hit?

It’s been a trend with creators of television shows to follow up a successful series with a spin-off. The idea could be tracked way back to the 1950’s or the 60’s. There are varying reports of what the first ever spin-off program was. The rule behind a spin-off is that its pilot episode should be aired in relation to the parent series. In most cases, one or two of the characters from the parent TV series is continued into the spin-off to give it a jumpstart. These characters may or may not be a part of the series forever, depending on the value they add to the script.

The last decade alone has seen quite a few successful shows precede a spin-off. The television audience loved Buffy the Vampire Slayer; its spin-off Angel was equally well received. The character of Angel picked up popularity during the parent show, enough to give the makers an idea. Also, Beverly Hills 90210, the highly popular teenage cult show of the 90’s paved way for its 2008 spin-off 90210. It’s apparently an answer to the very popular Gossip Girl. Speaking of which, the makers of the Gossip Girl series are planning a spin-off of their own, and have reportedly spoken to Brittany Snow to play the lead.

Almost every new TV show has been branching out from its original series. Even makers of Grey’s Anatomy weren’t left out of the spin-off race. The succeeding series was given the name Private Practice, with a story revolving around Dr Addison Montgomery after she moves to Los Angeles. Looks like big stars aren’t immune to the spin-off success formula either. They are being roped in to heighten show appeal. There’s news that actor Chris O’Donnell has been confirmed for the NCIS spin-off.

It isn’t really difficult to guess why most spin-offs work. They are built on an existing platform that’s clicked with an audience, and the script has to just take off from where it’s left. Moreover, the show and the characters that continue have a loyal audience. It’s just a matter of sustaining it with an equally compelling story.

Like most parent episodes, the spin-offs are also available easily on Internet TV. So curious followers can catch them online, anytime.


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