TV Shows That Actually Deserve A Revival

Donn Saylor
Updated June 23, 2023 22.1K votes 2.6K voters 23.9K views
Over 2.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of TV Shows That Actually Deserve A Revival
Voting Rules
Vote up the shows you'd most like to see come back.
Latest additions: Lizzie McGuire, Family Ties, Cheers
Most divisive: Fringe

It's never easy to say goodbye to a beloved television show. Whether it was on the air for years and got a grand sendoff, or it only lasted a few months and received no official finale, there are countless TV series canceled before their time. Fortunately, many TV shows that deserve a revival have been generating considerable interest among studios and showrunners. Twin Peaks, Will & Grace, Roseanne, and Curb Your Enthusiasm are just a few of the series undergoing revivals on major networks.

But there are still a number of shows that should be brought back. Some of the best TV shows to renew are cult favorites, and it's almost criminal they aren't being discussed in an era full of revivals. From Buffy and the rest of the Scooby Gang to Jerri Blank and the crew at Flatpoint High, from time-jumping Sam Beckett to the eternally warring Al and Peggy Bundy, there is no shortage of TV shows networks should revive. What show would you like to see receive a second greenlighting?

Ranked by
  • Firefly
    1

    Firefly

    Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk
    838 votes
    • Premiered: September 20, 2002
    • Genres: Action,Adventure,Science Fiction
    In the vast expanse of the television universe, Firefly stands out as a beacon of innovative storytelling and genre-blending entertainment. This short-lived yet critically acclaimed series masterfully combines elements of science fiction, western, and drama, creating an immersive experience for its dedicated fan base. The ensemble cast, led by the charismatic Captain Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion), navigates the perils and moral quandaries of a futuristic frontier aboard their trusty vessel, Serenity. Despite its premature cancellation, Firefly's impact has been recognized through numerous award nominations, including an Emmy win for Outstanding Visual Effects. With its compelling narrative, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Firefly continues to shine brightly in the hearts of its admirers.
  • Quantum Leap
    2

    Quantum Leap

    Scott Bakula, Dean Stockwell, Dennis Wolfberg
    664 votes
    • Premiered: March 26, 1989
    • Genres: Drama,Fantasy,Science Fiction
    In a daring mix of science fiction and drama, Quantum Leap follows the unpredictable journey of Dr. Sam Beckett (Scott Bakula) as he leaps through time, inhabiting the bodies of various individuals throughout history. The award-winning series, which garnered numerous Emmy nominations and wins, captures the imagination with its riveting blend of human emotion, historical events, and thought-provoking dilemmas. Each episode takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride as Beckett, guided by his holographic sidekick Al Calavicci (Dean Stockwell), attempts to right the wrongs of the past, all while hoping that his next leap will finally bring him home.
  • Dead Like Me
    3

    Dead Like Me

    Ellen Muth, Mandy Patinkin, Laura Harris
    144 votes
    • Premiered: June 29, 2003
    • Genres: Drama,Fantasy
    In the realm of dark comedy, a show emerges that explores the complexities of life and death with a tinge of humor and wit. Dead Like Me, a critically acclaimed series, follows the afterlife journey of Georgia "George" Lass (Ellen Muth) as she reluctantly takes on the role of a grim reaper. The unconventional narrative artfully intertwines the struggles of George and her fellow reapers with the poignant stories of those whose lives they're tasked to end. Alongside a stellar cast, including Mandy Patinkin as the enigmatic Rube Sofer, this series delivers a thought-provoking experience that leaves viewers contemplating their own mortality and the meaning of existence.
  • Grimm
    4

    Grimm

    David Giuntoli, Russell Hornsby, Reggie Lee
    171 votes
    • Premiered: October 28, 2011
    • Genres: Drama,Fantasy,Horror,Thriller
    In the mystical world of Grimm, viewers are transported into a modern-day fairy tale that seamlessly weaves drama, fantasy, and crime-solving. The series follows homicide detective Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli), who discovers he is a descendant of the legendary Grimms‚ guardians sworn to protect humanity from supernatural creatures known as Wesen. Throughout its six-season run, the show garnered a devoted fan base and earned a Saturn Award nomination for Best Network Television Series. With a strong ensemble cast, including Silas Weir Mitchell as the lovable Blutbad Monroe, Grimm artfully balances dark storylines with moments of humor and camaraderie, all while exploring the complexities of good versus evil.
  • Futurama
    5

    Futurama

    Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio
    646 votes
    • Premiered: March 28, 1999
    • Genres: Animation,Comedy,Science Fiction
    In a realm where science fiction and humor collide, Futurama has carved a niche for itself with its clever storytelling and unforgettable characters. Set in the 31st century, the animated series follows the misadventures of Philip J. Fry (voiced by Billy West), a pizza delivery boy who is accidentally cryogenically frozen and awakens in a futuristic New York City. The show's ensemble cast includes Leela (Katey Sagal), a cyclopean martial artist, and Bender (John DiMaggio), a wisecracking robot with a penchant for mischief. Futurama's unique blend of satire, wit, and creative imagination earned it numerous accolades, including six Emmy Awards during its seven-season run.
  • Freaks And Geeks
    6

    Freaks And Geeks

    John Francis Daley, Linda Cardellini, Samm Levine
    637 votes
    • Premiered: September 25, 1999
    • Genres: Comedy,Drama
    Set in the backdrop of an early 1980s high school, this coming-of-age dramedy navigates the lives of two distinct groups: the "freaks" and the "geeks." The show explores their daily struggles, aspirations, and relationships with a touch of nostalgic realism that resonates with audiences. Garnering critical acclaim during its short-lived run, Freaks and Geeks earned several Emmy nominations, solidifying its place in television history. With a talented ensemble cast featuring Linda Cardellini as Lindsay Weir and James Franco as Daniel Desario, the series masterfully balances humor and heartfelt moments while providing an authentic portrayal of teenage life.