Six Spin Offs That Were Better Than The Original

On numerous television shows, a character or concept becomes so loved that producers create a new show around them. In some cases, spin-offs strike a chord with viewers and surpass a parent show in popularity. The popularity may, in fact, cause audiences to forget where the spawn originated.

1. The Jeffersons

Via sitcomsonline.com

George and Louise Jefferson were initially introduced to TV audiences as the neighbors of bigoted Archie Bunker. In 1975, the financial success of the family enabled them to move out of the neighborhood and to the "deluxe apartment in the sky." The bigotry-based humor continued. Although, unlike poor Edith Bunker, Wheezy and Florence often kept opinionated George in line.

2. Facts of Life

Via girlygirl.typepad.com

The loveable and wise Mrs. Garrett started her career as the housekeeper for the Drummond family on "Diff'rent Strokes." The "Facts of Life" spin-off began in 1979 and followed her to the Eastland School for Girls where she became confidant and mother-like figure to Blair, Jo, Natalie and Tootie.

3. Family Matters

Via kellie.de

Elevator operator Harriette Winslow, and her policeman husband Carl, regularly appeared on the popular sitcom "Perfect Strangers." The spin-off "Family Matters" premiered in 1989. While viewers were made privy to the weekly happenings of the Winslow family, the introduction of intellectual but nerdy and nasally Steve Urkel undoubtedly greatly contributed to the show's longevity.

4. Boston Legal

Via images2.fanpop.com

The dramatic law-based series "The Practice" featured James Spader from 2003 to 2004. His character, attorney Alan Shore was dismissed from the firm and the show. However, Spader later joined veteran actor William Shatner as attorney Denny Crane in the wildly popular dramedy series "Boston Legal."

5. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

Via ruthlessreviews.com

From 2002 to 2007, viewers tuned into weekly to watch as guests experienced new hair, make up, and plastic surgery on "Extreme Makeover." The show concluded with a dramatic reveal. However, In 2003, producers traded plastic surgeons for carpenters in the spin-off series "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" appealed to a more sympathetic audience as a family enduring hardship was treated to an all-expense paid vacation while their domicile was completely transformed by an expert team of carpenters, designers and construction workers.

The evolution of shows toward spin-offs continues, which allows for further development of popular characters and themes. While some flounder miserably, others enjoy unexpected immense success.