1. The A-Team
The A-Team followed a group of ex-special forces soldiers turned mercenaries, helping people in need while evading the law. The show became iconic in the ’80s thanks to its action-packed storylines and memorable characters, particularly Mr. T’s B.A. Baracus. While it never received a spin-off, fans were left wondering what could have happened if the show had explored the characters further.
A spin-off focusing on each team member’s background would have been a great way to expand on their stories. Exploring Hannibal’s military career, Face’s charming con-artist skills, or even B.A.’s softer side could have provided endless entertaining material for a fresh show.
2. Cheers
Cheers was set in a Boston bar where a diverse group of regulars and staff formed a quirky family. The show’s success, especially thanks to the sharp dialogue and lovable characters, led to the spin-off Frasier, which centered on Kelsey Grammer’s character. However, other characters from the show, like Carla or Norm, deserved their own chance to shine.
A spin-off could have followed Carla as she balanced raising her kids with her tough yet endearing persona at the bar. Norm and Cliff could have also had their own show, as the idea of a buddy comedy about two lovable, quirky barflies would have been a hit.
3. Family Ties
Family Ties captured the cultural clash between liberal parents and their conservative son, Alex P. Keaton, during the 1980s. The show was a huge hit, especially with Michael J. Fox’s iconic portrayal of Alex. While the show wrapped up with Alex’s graduation, a spin-off could have explored his life after college, which was left to the imagination.
A series centered on Alex Keaton could have explored his career in politics and the challenges he faced in balancing his ideals with reality. Alternatively, a show focusing on his siblings, Mallory or Jennifer, could have offered fresh perspectives on the Keaton family dynamics.
4. The Golden Girls
The Golden Girls was one of the most beloved sitcoms of the ’80s, following four older women living together and navigating life’s challenges with humor. While the show itself did have a successful spin-off, The Golden Palace, which featured Blanche, Rose, and Sophia running a hotel, there was room for more untapped potential with other characters.
A spin-off focused on Dorothy’s life after leaving Miami could have explored her life in a new setting, interacting with new characters while still holding onto her sharp wit. Sophia, with her feisty personality, could have also had a series focused on her interactions with her extended family, diving deeper into her rich history.
5. Magnum, P.I.
Magnum, P.I. introduced Thomas Magnum, a private investigator who lived on a lavish estate in Hawaii, solving mysteries with his charm and wit. The show’s iconic setting and action-packed storylines made it a fan favorite in the ’80s. Despite its success, Magnum never got a proper spin-off to explore other aspects of his world.
A spin-off could have focused on Magnum’s fellow veterans, T.C. and Rick, as they went on their own adventures. Alternatively, a series dedicated to Magnum’s past as a Navy SEAL could have explored his time in the service and the relationships he built there, leading to deeper, more personal storylines.
6. Dallas
Dallas was the quintessential soap opera of the ’80s, centered around the power struggles of the wealthy Ewing family in Texas. The show was known for its jaw-dropping plot twists, and with its iconic characters like J.R. Ewing, it dominated TV during its time. Although there were several spin-offs, including Knots Landing, we never got a deeper dive into some of the secondary characters’ lives.
A spin-off following Sue Ellen Ewing after her tumultuous marriage to J.R. would have been fascinating. Or a series centered on the Ewing family’s business empire and its impact on the community could have been a gripping drama full of intrigue and family politics.
7. Knight Rider
Knight Rider featured Michael Knight, a crime fighter with a car that could talk—KITT, the super-intelligent vehicle. The show combined thrilling action with futuristic technology, becoming a huge hit in the ’80s. While the series had sequels, the concept was ripe for a spin-off that didn’t just focus on the car.
A spin-off could have explored KITT’s origin story, diving into the creation of the AI and its impact on the world of technology. Alternatively, a series centered on other characters from the show, like Devon Miles or Bonnie Barstow, could have delved into their backgrounds and roles in the fight against crime.
8. The Wonder Years
The Wonder Years was a beloved coming-of-age story that took a nostalgic look at Kevin Arnold’s childhood during the late ’60s and early ’70s. The show tackled serious themes of family, love, and growing up, with a dose of humor and heart. Although the series ended with Kevin’s transition into adulthood, there was still room to explore more about his future.
A spin-off could have focused on Kevin’s life as an adult, dealing with the challenges of relationships, career, and growing up in a changing world. Alternatively, a show about Paul Pfeiffer, Kevin’s best friend, and his adult life could have provided a unique perspective, continuing the themes of friendship and coming of age.
9. Perfect Strangers
Perfect Strangers was about the comedic relationship between two cousins—Balki Bartokomous from the island of Mypos and his American cousin, Larry Appleton. The cultural clash and their contrasting personalities created much of the humor. While the show was a hit, it never had a spin-off to explore Balki’s homeland or even Larry’s life beyond his cousin’s antics.
A spin-off focused on Balki’s life back on Mypos would have provided a humorous and heartwarming exploration of his family, culture, and adventures. Alternatively, a series centered around Larry’s career would have offered a different, more grounded perspective, perhaps focusing on his pursuit of success in Chicago.
10. Growing Pains
Growing Pains was a family sitcom that centered on the Seavers, with the parents navigating the ups and downs of raising their children. The show balanced humor and heart, especially as Mike Seaver, the eldest son, got into more trouble. Although it had a successful run, there was no spin-off to explore the characters’ lives further.
A spin-off following Mike Seaver’s adult life as a journalist could have explored his career, relationships, and family life, giving fans a chance to reconnect with their favorite character. A series about Ben, Mike’s younger brother, as a teenager would have provided fresh material while still keeping the Seaver family spirit alive.
11. Roseanne
Roseanne was a sitcom that portrayed the everyday struggles of a working-class family with wit and honesty. The show’s success was largely due to its portrayal of relatable, flawed characters, particularly the sharp-tongued Roseanne Conner. While the show has had various revivals, a spin-off that focused on the supporting characters could have been interesting.
A spin-off about Darlene or Becky Conner navigating their adulthood would have been a natural continuation, exploring their relationships, careers, and parenting. Alternatively, a spin-off focusing on Dan and Roseanne’s life after the show ended would have continued the family dynamic, adding new layers to their relationship.
12. Punky Brewster
Punky Brewster was a heartwarming series about a young girl named Punky who is taken in by a foster father, Henry. The show tackled important themes like adoption, family, and friendship. While the series did have a revival, the original show could have seen a spin-off exploring Punky’s teenage years and how she navigated the complexities of life.
A spin-off following Punky as a teenager, facing the challenges of adolescence, would have offered a fresh perspective on her development. It could have also followed Henry’s life after Punky moved out, delving into his own personal growth and the changes in his life.
13. The Facts of Life
The Facts of Life centered on a group of girls attending a boarding school under the guidance of the wise and loving Mrs. Garrett. The show balanced humor with important life lessons. While The Facts of Life had a successful run, a spin-off could have explored the lives of the girls after they graduated.
A series following the lives of Blair, Jo, Natalie, and Tootie after they left Eastland would have been intriguing. It could have followed their careers, romantic relationships, and the struggles of adulthood, all while maintaining the heart and humor of the original show.
14. The Twilight Zone (1985–1989)
The Twilight Zone returned in the ’80s for a new generation, reviving the iconic anthology series. While the revival was praised for bringing back eerie, thought-provoking stories, it never got a spin-off. The show’s anthology format offered endless possibilities for unique, individual stories that could easily have been expanded into spin-off series.
A spin-off could have focused on some of the most intriguing characters or concepts introduced in certain episodes. For example, a series based on an episode like “The Wall” or “The After Hours” could have explored a new setting or followed specific characters as they encountered bizarre realities, making for endless storytelling potential.
