10 TV Spin-Offs That Flopped: From Blockbuster to Bust

In today's entertainment landscape, where movie sequels, prequels, reboots, and legacy continuations abound, it might surprise viewers to learn that many beloved films have made the leap to television as well—for better or for worse. While shows like High Fidelity, 10 Things I Hate About You, Cobra Kai, and What We Do in the Shadows successfully captured the essence of their cinematic counterparts, not all adaptations fared so well. Some have fallen painfully flat, threatening the cherished legacies of the originals.

Take the classic Clueless, for instance. Released in 1995, this beloved film offered a modern twist on Jane Austen’s Emma and painted a vibrant picture of 90s teen culture. The subsequent sitcom debuted just a year later and, surprisingly, lasted three seasons. Following Cher Horowitz and her circle as they navigated high school challenges, the show even featured crossovers with Moesha and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Despite decent reviews, Clueless never quite escaped the shadow of its film predecessor, leaving viewers bemused that such a show existed in the first place.

Another attempted adaptation, Taken, starring Liam Neeson, stumbled significantly. The original film centered around a father’s relentless quest to reclaim his kidnapped daughter, a gripping thriller that captivated audiences. Its television counterpart attempted to follow Bryan Mills as he dealt with personal loss and pursued his sister's killers, but it ultimately felt stagnant over its two seasons and 26 episodes. Action-packed excitement faltered, leaving many fans wishing for the depth and intrigue of the movie instead.

Then there’s School of Rock, a Nickelodeon reboot that premiered in 2016. Although the original film, featuring the charismatic Jack Black, was a hit, the series focused more on the students than on the lead character, Dewey Finn. While Tony Cavalero stepped into the role with charming enthusiasm, viewers felt disconnected from the