12 Worst Spin-Offs of Great Shows

Spin-off shows often try to capture the magic of their parent series, riding on familiar characters or settings to draw in fans. While some, like ‘Frasier’ or ‘The Jeffersons’, soar, others crash hard, failing to match the original’s charm or quality.

This article ranks 12 of the worst spin-offs from great TV shows, exploring why they missed the mark. From misguided premises to weak execution, these shows prove that even a strong foundation doesn’t guarantee success.

The Brady Bunch Variety Hour (1976-1977)

‘The Brady Bunch Variety Hour’ took the wholesome Brady family from their sitcom roots and threw them into a bizarre variety show format. Featuring the original cast, including Robert Reed and Florence Henderson, it leaned on singing, dancing, and comedy skits.

The shift from heartfelt comedy to flashy performances felt forced, alienating fans. With only nine episodes aired, the show’s odd tone and lack of the original’s warmth made it a forgettable misfire.

AfterMASH (1983-1985)

‘AfterMASH’ followed Colonel Potter, Maxwell Klinger, and Father Mulcahy from ‘MAS*H’ as they worked at a Missouri veterans’ hospital post-Korean War. The show aimed to continue the beloved dramedy’s legacy with familiar faces.

Despite a decent cast, including Harry Morgan and Jamie Farr, it lacked the sharp wit and emotional depth of ‘MAS*H’. Lasting two seasons, its dull stories and missing ensemble chemistry doomed it to obscurity.

The Tortellis (1987)

Spun off from ‘Cheers’, ‘The Tortellis’ centered on Carla’s ex-husband Nick and his new wife Loretta as they moved to Las Vegas. Dan Hedaya and Jean Kasem led this sitcom, hoping to capture the bar’s humor.

The show’s focus on less compelling characters and weak writing failed to spark. Canceled after 13 episodes, it couldn’t replicate the ensemble magic that made ‘Cheers’ a classic.

The Golden Palace (1992-1993)

‘The Golden Palace’ continued ‘The Golden Girls’ with Sophia, Blanche, and Rose running a Miami hotel after Dorothy’s departure. Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty reprised their roles, joined by Don Cheadle.

Despite a strong cast, the new setting and lack of Dorothy’s grounding presence felt off. Lasting one season, it struggled to match the original’s sharp humor and heart, fading quickly.

Top of the Heap (1991)

‘Top of the Heap’ spun off from ‘Married… with Children’, following Vinnie Verducci, a dim-witted slacker, and his father Charlie. Matt LeBlanc starred before his ‘Friends’ fame, but the show lacked staying power.

Its crude humor and unlikable leads didn’t capture the Bundy family’s chaotic charm. Canceled after seven episodes, it’s a forgettable blip in the sitcom’s legacy.

Joanie Loves Chachi (1982-1983)

‘Joanie Loves Chachi’ took ‘Happy Days’ characters Joanie Cunningham and Chachi Arcola to Chicago for music careers and romance. Erin Moran and Scott Baio led this short-lived sitcom.

The focus on a single couple stripped away the ensemble dynamic that made ‘Happy Days’ shine. Lasting 17 episodes, its predictable plots and lack of depth left fans cold.

Models Inc. (1994-1995)

Spun off from ‘Melrose Place’, ‘Models Inc.’ followed a Los Angeles modeling agency, blending drama and mystery. Starring Linda Gray and Cameron Daddo, it aimed for soapy thrills like its predecessor.

The show’s absurd plot twists, like doppelgangers and hitmen, and weak performances sank it. Canceled after one season, it failed to capture the addictive chaos of ‘Melrose Place’.

Baywatch Nights (1995-1997)

‘Baywatch Nights’ took the sunny lifeguard drama ‘Baywatch’ and pivoted to a gritty crime procedural. David Hasselhoff starred as Mitch Buchannon, now a private investigator, alongside Angie Harmon.

The tonal shift from beach rescues to noir mysteries confused fans. Lasting two seasons, its forced seriousness and lack of the original’s campy fun made it a jarring flop.

Once Upon a Time in Wonderland (2013-2014)

A spin-off of ‘Once Upon a Time’, ‘Once Upon a Time in Wonderland’ focused on Alice’s adventures in a darker Wonderland. Sophie Lowe led, with familiar Disney characters like the Red Queen appearing.

Weak CGI, a slow romantic plot, and a lack of crossovers with the parent show hurt its appeal. Canceled after 13 episodes, it couldn’t match the original’s fairy-tale magic.

The Finder (2011-2012)

‘The Finder’ spun off from ‘Bones’, centering on Walter Sherman, a quirky locator of missing things, played by Geoff Stults. Michael Clarke Duncan co-starred in this lighthearted procedural.

Despite a fresh premise, the show’s underdeveloped concept and lack of ‘Bones’ chemistry failed to connect. Canceled after half a season, it’s a forgotten detour from the main series.

Three’s a Crowd (1984-1985)

‘Three’s a Crowd’ continued ‘Three’s Company’ with Jack Tripper living with his girlfriend Vicky, whose father disapproved. John Ritter starred, carrying the slapstick humor from the original.

The show’s focus on a single couple lost the roommate antics that defined ‘Three’s Company’. Lasting one season, its repetitive gags and lack of spark made it a weak follow-up.

Joey (2004-2006)

‘Joey’ followed Joey Tribbiani from ‘Friends’ to Los Angeles to pursue acting. Matt LeBlanc reprised his role, but the show struggled to replicate the ensemble magic of the original.

Weak supporting characters and forced plots led to its cancellation after two seasons. Without the Central Perk gang, Joey’s charm couldn’t carry a show alone.

Which of these spin-off flops surprised you most, or is there another misfire you think belongs on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments