The entertainment industry is booming like never before with newer shows introduced to viewers through television or OTT quite frequently. Many of these are reboots and remakes, and yet there are several iconic TV shows that remain ripe for a modern-day makeover. From cult favorites to dramas that had audiences lost in stories, some timeless pieces still hold the ever-lasting potential to captivate audiences once again with some fresh changes.
Here’s a list of the top eight such TV shows from the 90s and the early 2000s that we think are worthy of a reboot, as we see them laden with possibilities of revitalizing some narratives that we have cherished for a long time.
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Hotel (1983-1988)
Aaron Spelling’s ‘Hotel, ran for a good five years with an exciting blend of drama and luxury. Set against the backdrop of St. Gregory Hotel in San Francisco, the show drew audiences into the lives of the hotel’s owners, staff, and an array of guests. While the prospect of a more high-grade reboot is full of several narratives, the true treasure of possibilities for this show lies in its guest star opportunities. Throughout its original run, the series starred an impressive lineup of iconic stars in guest roles. If at all there’s a revival, it would be a delight to see today’s shining and rising stars do cameos on ‘Hotel’ as guests.
The Secret World of Alex Mack (1994-1998)
‘The Secret World of Alex Mack‘ was a rather beloved show that introduced its audiences to the extraordinary life of ordinary teenager Alex Mack. Played by Larisa Oleynik, the lead character’s life takes a dramatic turn after she accidentally gains incredible and uncontrollable powers after a chemical plant mishap. From telekinesis to the ability to dissolve into a puddle, the supernatural element of the show made it a favorite young adult series. The reboot of the show is laden with several possibilities, right from Alex’s adult life as she grapples with the consequences of her powers, to the reimagination of her teenage years in a contemporary setting.
Bewitched (1964–1972)
Show creator Nora Ephron tried to revive ‘Bewitched‘ in a 2005 film adaptation starring Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell. But it was not enough to quench fans’s thirst who have eagerly been waiting for a television reboot for over 15 years. The show puts Samantha Stephens, a witch trying to balance her magical abilities with suburban life, in the lead role. While the show was rich with some laudable visual effects at the time, the advancements in special effects and storytelling techniques lay a breeding ground for its reboot.
The Munsters (1964-1966)
‘The Munsters‘ was a stand-apart series that brought Halloween vibes to television screens year-round. The narrative of the show was based on a monster family trying to fit into a suburban life. The show first charmed audiences in 1964 and quickly became a beloved classic. The show also got a change of settings with a revival titled ‘The Munsters Today‘ released in the late 1980s, and a TV special called ‘Mockingbird Lane‘ aired in 2012. However, a full series reboot is highly anticipated as fans are excited to see the family navigate their existence in the modern-day world.
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Fantasy Island (1978-1984)
‘Fantasy Island‘ was the ultimate escapism show for the audiences, who seemingly fulfilled their deepest desires under Mr. Roarke’s watchful eye. The seven seasons of the show gave audiences promises of the island, with the sobering reality of the price to be paid. After a brief revival in the 1990s, Blumhouse also brought a chilling 2020 film adaptation of the show. However, fans will await another chance to see the exploration of human desires and fantasies in a television series. A revived version of the introspection into the human psyche can be achieved either with a Black Mirror-style anthology or a deeper exploration of Mr. Roarke’s personality.
Cheers (1982–1993)
‘Cheers‘ is a timeless sitcom with unforgettable characters and perfect humor. The reboot of the show can be achieved in many ways but the most compelling one is with a gender-bent twist on the beloved Boston bar. If Sam Malone is transformed into Samantha, the character could easily portrayed as a bar owner challenging societal norms. Meanwhile, Diane Chambers becomes David — a sensitive literature professor navigating the complexities of modern masculinity.
Dark Angel (2000–2002)
Max Guevara’s cyberpunk show ‘Dark Angel‘ has managed to lure audiences with its blend of science fiction, action, and dystopian adventures. Though the show was prematurely cancelled, it left an indelible mark on viewers. Many of the show’s fans crave more of Max’s adventures in a post-apocalyptic Seattle. As the current television landscape is full of shows with strong female leads and complex narratives, a reboot of ‘Dark Angel‘ holds immense potential.
I Dream of Jeannie (1965–1970)
The fantasy sitcom ‘I Dream of Jeannie‘ played with the audience’s imagination with its innovative use of special effects. The show was definitely ahead of its time in terms of production and visual effects. Through the magic of blue screens and wires, the show created illusions that kept viewers hooked to their screens. Imagining Jeannie’s iconic bottle transformations and Captain Nelson’s space adventures brought to life with contemporary cinematic techniques is definitely a green flag for another reboot of the show.
So here it is, the list of handpicked shows that we believe would be an absolute treat to watch for the old fans of the show as well as for the new ones who are yet to explore its old charms.
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