Back in Time Today
TV reboots are the entertainment industry’s version of déjà vu—familiar names, familiar faces (sometimes), and a whole lot of expectations. But while some reboots manage to recapture the original magic, others crash and burn, leaving fans wondering why anyone bothered in the first place. Here are 15 TV reboots that missed the mark—and 3 rare gems that actually got it right.
1. “Knight Rider” (2008)
The talking car returned, but without the charm. Overly serious and lacking heart, this reboot felt more like a bad car commercial than a nostalgic thrill ride.
2. “Charlie’s Angels” (2011)
All style, no substance. This short-lived reboot tried to modernize the Angels but ended up stripping away everything that made the original fun.
3. “The Munsters” – Mockingbird Lane (2012)
This darker, more dramatic version of the classic comedy confused fans and never got past its pilot episode. Monsters without laughs? Hard pass.
4. “Ironside” (2013)
Blair Underwood gave it his all, but fans weren’t buying this grittier, more action-oriented reboot. It was canceled after just four episodes.
5. “The InBetween” (2019)
Marketed as a spiritual successor to Medium and Ghost Whisperer, this show never found its audience—or its footing.
6. “MacGyver” (2016–2021)
A reboot in name only, the charm and clever DIY feel of the original were lost in a sea of standard procedural fare.
7. “Charmed” (2018–2022)
This reboot alienated original fans with its total reinvention, losing the sisterly chemistry and magical whimsy in the process.
8. “Heroes Reborn” (2015)
Hoping to revive the magic of Season 1 of Heroes, this reboot barely resembled its former self and fizzled out quickly.
9. “Dallas” (2012–2014)
Despite the return of some original cast members, the reboot couldn’t sustain momentum and lacked the iconic drama that defined the original.
10. “The Twilight Zone” (2019–2020)
With Jordan Peele at the helm, expectations were sky-high—but clunky writing and inconsistent tone dimmed this reboot’s potential.
11. “The Odd Couple” (2015–2017)
Starring Matthew Perry, this reboot had laughs—but not enough of them. It never really distinguished itself from the many versions before it.
12. “Melrose Place” (2009–2010)
Trying to capture ‘90s sass without the original fire, this reboot fell flat with both old fans and new viewers.
13. “Beauty and the Beast” (2012–2016)
Far removed from the gothic romance of the original, this version leaned more into police procedural and less into fairy tale, confusing its core concept.
14. “90210” (2008–2013)
Despite a decent run, this attempt to continue the Beverly Hills, 90210 saga felt more like a generic teen drama than a worthy successor.
15. “Fantasy Island” (2021–2023)
Attempting a modern twist on the mystical vacation concept, this reboot lacked the eerie charm of the original and quickly ran out of steam.
1. “Battlestar Galactica” (2004–2009)
A masterclass in reimagining, this reboot turned a cheesy ‘70s sci-fi into a dark, gripping space drama full of moral complexity and compelling characters.
2. “One Day at a Time” (2017–2020)
This heartfelt update of the classic sitcom brought in a Latino family, modern themes, and just the right balance of laughs and emotion. A critical darling.
3. “Cobra Kai” (2018–Present)
Who would’ve guessed a Karate Kid sequel series would become a pop culture phenomenon? Smart writing, nostalgia done right, and character depth earned this reboot its black belt.