I absolutely, categorically LOATHED the Bones spin-off The Finder. What a load of cliches. And what the hell is that girl's accent supposed to be? Cockney? She sounds like she has a serious speech impairment. And WHY? Anyway, in spite of the lukewarm reception, the series has been picked up. 

So the easy conclusion might be that spin-offs are always a bad idea. And you know what? They're not! Here are seven (and a half) examples of spin-offs, including my beloved Frasier, that were actually better than the original! 

Frasier (1994 - 2004) from Cheers Don't believe me? Try rewatching Cheers. It's not that funny anymore. (And made me wonder whether it ever was?) whereas Frasier still cracks me up.

Melrose Place (1992 - 1999) from 90210 Both guilty pleasures, but Jane and Michael endless tussles made the latter more memorable. 

The Simpsons (1989 - Present) from The Tracey Ullman Show Homer's still going strong.

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994) from Star Trek. Ahhh. Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard. 

Boston Legal (from The Practice) Danny Crane! Smoking cigars!

Happy Days (from Love, American Style) Da Fonz! And who'd have thunk that sweet but dorky Richie Cunningham would grow up to be Ron Howard, mega movie director?

Star Trek: Voyager (from Star Trek) Arguably better than both the original AND the earlier spin-off, The Next Generation. If only Patrick Stewart had been in it.....

Honorary mention: The The Cosby Show off shoot A different world. If only because people actually wore Dwayne Wayne's silly glasses.