8 Best TV Show Revivals That Did Justice to the Original

1. "Twin Peaks: The Return" (2017)

David Lynch's eerie, captivating drama "Twin Peaks" returned to our screens in 2017, 26 years after its initial run. With a magnificent 8.5 rating on IMDb, this revival stands as a masterstroke in television history. Although the original "Twin Peaks" left us with cliffhangers and surreal imagery that haunted us for years, "The Return" amplified these elements in classic Lynch style.

Starring original cast members Kyle MacLachlan and Sheryl Lee, alongside fresh faces like Laura Dern and Naomi Watts, "The Return" successfully preserved the uncanny charm of the original. The 18-episode limited series intricately intertwined the peculiarities of the old narrative while injecting a heavy dose of fresh, existential horror and mystery.

2. "Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life" (2016)

Nine years after we last saw them, the fast-talking, coffee-chugging Gilmore Girls returned for a four-part revival on Netflix. Rated a respectable 7.7 on IMDb, "A Year in the Life" provided fans with a healthy dose of nostalgia and closure. It retained the heart of the original series, with Stars Hollow's eccentric charm and the beloved mother-daughter dynamics intact.

We were offered a glimpse into Rory's life as an unsettled journalist and Lorelai's struggle with her relationships. Although not without its criticisms, the revival shone with standout moments, including Emily's cathartic journey after Richard's death and, of course, those 'final four words'.

3. "Will & Grace" (2017-2020)

The "Will & Grace" revival, running for three seasons, was a wonderful surprise for fans of the groundbreaking sitcom. The series received an impressive 7.2 rating on IMDb, delivering the same wit, sass, and charm as the original. Will, Grace, Karen, and Jack slipped back into their roles as if no time had passed, treating viewers to updated hijinks, hilarious quips, and a slew of celebrity guest stars.

The revival also gave the series a chance to tackle contemporary social and political issues, bringing the beloved sitcom into the modern era without losing its original spirit.

4. "The X-Files" (2016-2018)

The truth was still out there when "The X-Files" returned in 2016 for two additional seasons. Earning a commendable 7.6 on IMDb, the revival had Scully (Gillian Anderson) and Mulder (David Duchovny) back on the chase for extraterrestrial life and government conspiracies.

The show recaptured the original's tantalizing blend of 'Monster of the Week' episodes and complex mythology arcs. While some fans criticized its inconsistent quality, moments of brilliance reminded us of the innovative, exciting storytelling that made "The X-Files" a cult phenomenon in the first place.

5. "Doctor Who" (2005 – Present)

"Doctor Who" needs little introduction. This British sci-fi classic, originally broadcast from 1963-1989, got a new lease on life in 2005. With a staggering IMDb rating of 8.6, the revival is a testament to the timeless appeal of the Doctor's adventures.

The revival preserved the core essence of the original series – the eccentric, time-traveling Doctor with a penchant for saving civilizations. However, it modernized the storytelling and visuals, appealing to a new generation of viewers. Over its impressive run, the revival has seen several reincarnations of the Doctor, introduced new companions, and has taken fans on countless whimsical, scary, and thrilling journeys across time and space.

6. "Veronica Mars" (2019)

The snarky, smart, eponymous detective returned to our screens in 2019, earning an IMDb rating of 7.5. In this revival, a grown-up Veronica Mars, brilliantly portrayed by Kristen Bell, is once again solving mysteries in her beloved, corrupted hometown, Neptune.

The revival continued the show's tradition of blending noir-inspired mysteries with high school drama and biting social commentary. It revisited old characters, and their relationships, and added new intriguing plotlines that kept viewers on their toes. Although the shocking ending divided fans, the revival captured the essence of the original, proving that Veronica Mars hadn't lost her touch. At least not, you know, entirely.

7. "One Day at a Time" (2017 – 2020)

This reboot of Norman Lear's 1975 series of the same name not only did justice to the original but also carved out its unique identity. With a solid IMDb rating of 8.2, "One Day at a Time" tells the story of a Cuban-American family led by a single mom who's an Army veteran.

The series addresses contemporary issues like mental health, immigration, sexism, and homophobia with humor, warmth, and a sense of relevance. The characters are fully fleshed out, and their relationships evolve over the seasons, making the viewers care deeply about their trials and triumphs.

8. "Star Trek: Discovery" (2017 – Present)

The beloved "Star Trek" franchise received a fresh, exciting installment with "Star Trek: Discovery," holding an IMDb rating of 7.2. It stays true to the original's vision of a hopeful future while embracing more serialized storytelling and darker themes. Set a decade before Captain Kirk's original five-year mission, the series explores the Federation-Klingon war and expands on the franchise's rich lore. Sonequa Martin-Green leads the diverse cast as Michael Burnham, adding a new perspective to the Star Trek universe.

The series has been praised for its impressive special effects, character development, and the careful, respectful handling of the source material, making it a must-watch for "Star Trek" fans.