We’re occasionally told that revisiting the past isn’t always worth it, particularly when it comes to television and entertainment. For some, a classic production from the past is best left alone in the modern world. While this can certainly be levelled at a number of failed reboots and forgettable revivals, there are some examples of a modern take on an old-school classic being executed well.
We certainly aren’t short on these types of shows in 2022 either, with a number of reboots and revivals coming to the fore in recent times, particularly as studios attempt to make their mark in the industry by adding to an already saturated space with an attempt at reviving a built-in audience that is familiar with a well-known title. We see it in other areas of entertainment, too, with classic games being given a modern twist, such as in 777 Royal Wheel by Microgaming, an updated take on vintage slot themes.
Likewise, a number of classic console-quality titles, like GTA 5, are now making the transition over to modern-day smartphone devices. While the gaming world has managed to pull some of them off, there have been a fairly limited amount of memorable reboots and revivals that can be considered a success in the television sphere. Thankfully, there is the odd surprise that comes along and is well worth watching, though. Let’s take a look at just three of them below.
Doctor Who
Although Doctor Who isn’t for everyone, it still has a cult following who simply adore the longest-running sci-fi series in TV history. A BBC production since 1963, the show has always been popular, but after 26 seasons, it was decided to call it a day in 1989. Thankfully, though, for fans of the Doctor, Doctor Who was given a modern makeover and has gone from strength to strength since 2005. From David Tennant and Matt Smith to Peter Capaldi and Jodie Whittaker, the classic science-fiction programme has featured a stellar cast over the years and has managed to reinvent itself beautifully well for audiences in 2022.
Battlestar Galactica
Originally showcased to audiences in 1978, Battlestar Galactica is a sci-fi series that is adored by millions. While the show was popular in its previous format, the rebirth of it in 2003 won even more people over. Still going strong today, Battlestar Galactica initially started out as a miniseries before being upgraded to the hugely popular drama that it is right now. For sci-fi fans, Battlestar Galactica is a must-watch production, especially if you’re keen to see what a successful reboot looks like. The show does an excellent job at highlighting various societal issues also, be it around science and religion or health and politics.
Saved by the Bell
A show millions of greyer-haired members of society grew up with, Saved by the Bell ran for four years between 1989 and 1993 and provided a number of comical moments in its time. With younger audiences being able to relate to the high school aspect of the show, its appeal was understandable back then. Despite there being growing concerns as to whether or not it would translate into a modern setting, the show’s modern-day facelift can be considered a success after pulling in impressive viewing numbers since 2021. The remake even features some of the old members of the show, such as Mario Lopez, although whether it has as many comical moments is up for debate. Still, Saved by the Bell is a decent revival overall.
Other memorable reboots and revivals on TV include the likes of One Day at a Time, DuckTales, Twin Peaks: The Return, Strike Back, Veronica Mars, The Comeback, and Fixer Upper.
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