TV Shows You Probably Didn't Know Were Remakes

Television is often seen as a mirror reflecting society, and in that reflection, we sometimes catch glimpses of stories that seem new but are actually retellings of older tales. Such is the case with TV show remakes, where familiar narratives get a fresh coat of paint for modern audiences. Whether it’s a foreign adaptation or a reinvention of a classic, these remakes breathe new life into timeless stories. Here are some TV shows you might not realize are remakes.

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Uncovering the Origins of TV Show Remakes

Sanford and Son (1972)

Sanford and Son, the classic American sitcom, follows the antics of Fred G. Sanford and his son Lamont as they navigate life running a junk dealership. What many don’t realize is that this beloved show is actually a remake of the British sitcom Steptoe and Son, which shares a similar premise but with a different cultural flavor. Interestingly, Sanford and Son initially hewed closely to its British predecessor before finding its own comedic voice.

The Good Doctor (2017)

The Good Doctor introduces viewers to Dr. Shaun Murphy, a brilliant surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, as he navigates the challenges of working at a prestigious hospital. What fans may not know is that this heartwarming series is based on a South Korean drama of the same name. While the American remake expands on the original’s premise, it retains the core themes of resilience and empathy.

All in the Family (1971)

All in the Family, a groundbreaking sitcom known for its social commentary and memorable characters, traces its roots back to the British series Till Death Us Do Part. Both shows center around a cantankerous patriarch grappling with societal change, but All in the Family injects its own uniquely American perspective into the mix. Despite their differences, both versions tackle issues of race, class, and generational conflict with wit and candor.

Ugly Betty (2006)

Ugly Betty follows Betty Suarez, an earnest young woman who lands a job at a prestigious fashion magazine, despite her unconventional appearance and lack of industry experience. Based on the Colombian telenovela Yo soy Betty, la fea, Ugly Betty translates the original’s comedic and satirical elements into an American context while exploring themes of beauty standards and workplace dynamics.

Being Human (2011)

Being Human US delves into the lives of three supernatural beings—a vampire, a werewolf, and a ghost—as they navigate their existence and attempt to live normal lives in Boston. Adapted from the British series of the same name, the American remake maintains the core premise of supernatural roommates facing human challenges while introducing new characters and storylines tailored for American audiences.

Skins (2011)

Skins US portrays the lives of a group of teenagers navigating adolescence, relationships, and identity issues in Baltimore. Inspired by the British series Skins, the American remake adapts the original’s raw and provocative portrayal of youth culture while incorporating American cultural references and addressing contemporary teenage challenges such as social media and mental health.

Being Erica (2009)

Being Erica revolves around Erica Strange, a woman given the chance to revisit moments of regret in her life through time-travel therapy. Based on the Canadian series of the same name, the American remake explores themes of personal growth, second chances, and self-discovery while maintaining the original’s blend of drama, comedy, and introspection.

Broadchurch (2014)

Gracepoint is an American adaptation of the British crime drama Broadchurch, which centers on the investigation of a young boy’s murder in a small coastal town. While Gracepoint closely follows the storyline of its British counterpart, both versions delve into the impact of the crime on the community and explore themes of grief, suspicion, and redemption through the lens of complex characters and intricate storytelling.

In Treatment (2008)

In Treatment US portrays the professional and personal life of therapist Paul Weston as he counsels a diverse array of patients in individual therapy sessions. Based on the Israeli series BeTipul, In Treatment US adapts the original’s format of weekly therapy sessions while delving deeper into the complexities of human relationships, mental health issues, and the ethical dilemmas faced by therapists.

Rake (2014)

Rake US follows the chaotic life of brilliant but self-destructive criminal defense lawyer Keegan Deane as he navigates legal cases and personal challenges in Los Angeles. Inspired by the Australian series of the same name, the American remake retains the original’s blend of courtroom drama, dark humor, and flawed protagonist while exploring new storylines and legal dilemmas relevant to American audiences.

The Killing (2011)

The Killing US revolves around detectives Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder as they investigate complex murder cases in Seattle. Adapted from the Danish series Forbrydelsen, The Killing US retains the original’s atmospheric tone, intricate plotting, and character-driven storytelling while exploring themes of grief, loss, and the impact of violence on individuals and communities.

Secret Diary of a Call Girl (2007)

Secret Diary of a Call Girl US portrays the double life of Hannah Baxter, a high-end escort in London, as she navigates her professional and personal relationships. Based on the British series of the same name, the American remake explores themes of intimacy, identity, and societal perceptions of sex work while offering a candid portrayal of the challenges and contradictions of Hannah’s lifestyle.

Being Human (2011)

From Across the Pond: British Shows Get the American Treatment

Three’s Company (1977)

Three’s Company follows the misadventures of Jack Tripper and his two female roommates as they navigate the complexities of cohabitation. This lighthearted sitcom is actually based on the British series Man About the House, which shares a similar premise but with a distinctly British sensibility. While both shows explore the dynamics of platonic relationships, Three’s Company adds its own comedic twist to the formula, delighting audiences with its slapstick humor and zany plotlines.

Ghosts (2021)

Ghosts introduces viewers to Samantha, who inherits a haunted mansion and soon finds herself surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric spirits. This supernatural comedy is a remake of the British series of the same name, but with a few twists of its own. While the original series leaned more into its spooky elements, the American remake strikes a balance between humor and heart, offering a fresh take on the afterlife.

House of Cards (2013)

House of Cards follows the ruthless political maneuverings of Frank Underwood as he climbs the ranks of power in Washington, D.C. This gripping political drama is actually a remake of a British series of the same name from 1990. Both versions explore themes of ambition, corruption, and betrayal in the corridors of power, but the American remake expands on the original with its own narrative twists and character developments.

Veep (2012)

Veep takes a satirical look at American politics through the eyes of Selina Meyer, a fictional Vice President grappling with the challenges of her office. While the series has its roots in the British sitcom The Thick of It, Veep carves out its own niche in political satire with sharp wit and biting humor. Both shows skewer bureaucratic incompetence and political absurdity, but Veep’s portrayal of Selina Meyer adds a uniquely American flavor to the mix.

Shameless (2011)

Shameless follows the dysfunctional Gallagher family as they navigate life in a gritty Chicago neighborhood. This acclaimed dramedy is actually based on a British series of the same name, but with significant differences in setting and cultural context. While both versions delve into themes of poverty, family bonds, and resilience, Shameless US creates a distinct identity with its bold characters and unflinching portrayal of societal issues.

The Office (2005)

The Office US captures the everyday absurdities of corporate life through the lens of Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton branch. Based on the British mockumentary series created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, The Office US reimagines the office dynamics with a distinctly American humor and a larger ensemble cast. While both versions share a documentary-style format and awkward humor, the American remake develops its own story arcs and character relationships over its nine-season run.

Queer as Folk (2000)

Queer as Folk US offers a candid exploration of LGBTQ+ life in Pittsburgh, focusing on the lives and relationships of a group of gay men and women. Adapted from the British series of the same name, the American remake shifts the setting to a vibrant urban landscape while retaining the original’s provocative storytelling and unapologetic portrayal of queer identities. Both versions challenge societal norms and celebrate diversity within the LGBTQ+ community, but Queer as Folk US introduces new narratives and cultural nuances.

Crossing Borders: From Israel to America

Euphoria (2019)

Euphoria immerses viewers in the lives of a group of high school students as they navigate love, identity, and addiction in a suburban setting. While the American version captures the essence of teenage angst and rebellion, it is actually based on an Israeli drama of the same name. While both series delve into the dark underbelly of adolescence, the American remake updates the story for a contemporary audience, tackling issues such as social media and mental health with raw honesty.

Homeland (2011)

Homeland follows CIA operative Carrie Mathison as she navigates the murky world of espionage and terrorism. This gripping drama is a remake of the Israeli series Hatufim (Prisoners of War), which explores similar themes of loyalty and betrayal. While both shows share a tense atmosphere and complex characters, Homeland puts its own spin on the story, weaving a web of intrigue that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Beyond Entertainment: The Cultural Impact of TV Show Remakes

Antiques Roadshow (1997)

Antiques Roadshow invites viewers on a journey of discovery as experts appraise treasured possessions and uncover hidden gems. While the American version of the show has become a cultural institution in its own right, it is based on a long-running British series of the same name. Despite their shared premise, each version offers a unique glimpse into history, showcasing the diversity of human experience through the objects we cherish.

In conclusion, TV show remakes offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, showcasing how timeless stories can be reimagined for new audiences. Whether it’s an American adaptation of a British sitcom or a modern twist on a classic tale, these remakes remind us that great stories never truly die—they simply evolve with the times. So the next time you tune into your favorite show, take a moment to appreciate the journey it took to get to your screen. After all, every story has a beginning, but it’s the journey that truly captivates us.