I watch a lot of television, and while I often check out series from the UK, I didn't initially realize how many American TV shows that were originally british are sitting right on my watchlist. Over time, it has become a fun hobby to compare these adaptations and decide which version truly stands out. Beyond enjoying the charming British accents, exploring how stories cross the Atlantic is fascinating. If you love discovering the origins of your favorite television hits, here are 7 famous American TV shows adapted from British shows that you might not have known started across the pond.
When comparing British shows remade in America, viewers typically notice a few key differences:
- Pacing and Length: US series often run for multiple seasons with 20+ episodes per year, whereas UK shows usually feature shorter, 6-episode series.
- Humor Style: UK originals lean heavily on dry, cringe-inducing satire, while US remakes often lean into broader warmth and character growth.
1. The Office
Probably the most successful and recognizable remake from overseas, The Office is definitely a standout on this list. Out of all the American shows adapted from British shows, this comedy is packed with hilarious moments that will make you laugh until you cry, along with iconic characters you cannot help but root for. Created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant in the UK, the original series laid the foundation before Greg Daniels adapted it for American audiences. While the original British version ran for just two short series and a special, its U.S. counterpart expanded into nine legendary seasons. Watching either version is a great experience, especially if you enjoy top-tier comedy like The Inbetweeners.
2. Skins
A massive hit in the UK, but a short-lived attempt in the States, Skins barely lasted one season on MTV when it premiered. The show features a group of teenagers who are trying to find their way in the world while navigating intense personal dilemmas, friendships, and bold party lifestyles. The original British version launched the careers of stars like Nicholas Hoult and Daniel Kaluuya, offering a raw look at youth culture. While the British series is definitely worth checking out for fans of gritty teenage drama like Shameless, the U.S. remake is one version you can comfortably skip.
3. Shameless
Packed with drama, dark humor, and an honest look at the harsh realities of working-class family life, Shameless is a show that everyone should experience. Following the chaotic Gallagher family, the series became a massive hit in both the UK and the United States. The American adaptation ran for eleven successful seasons on Showtime, successfully translating the Manchester grit of the original into a Chicago setting. This show will pull at your heartstrings as you watch the family navigate tough challenges, but the unforgettable characters make every minute worth watching.
| Show Title | Original UK Seasons | US Adaptation Seasons | | --- | --- | --- | | The Office | 2 Seasons | 9 Seasons | | Skins | 7 Seasons | 1 Season | | Shameless | 11 Seasons | 11 Seasons |4. The Inbetweeners
The Inbetweeners developed a huge cult following in the UK thanks to its hilariously awkward depiction of teenage high school life, so it was no surprise when an American adaptation landed on MTV. Unfortunately, the U.S. remake struggled to find the same charm and never made it to a sophomore season. The original British comedy captures the cringeworthy misadventures of four friends trying to fit in with sharp humor and relatable writing. While the American version kept many of the same storylines, viewers seeking the true comedic genius of the story should tune into the UK original.
5. Prime Suspect
It is no surprise that Prime Suspect achieved critical acclaim in the UK, especially with the brilliant Helen Mirren starring as Detective Chief Inspector Jane Tennison. Sadly, the American remake starring Maria Bello struggled to attract an audience and was canceled during its first season. While the US version tried to modernize the procedural formula, it strayed too far from the grit and atmospheric depth of the original. If you are in the mood for a compelling police procedural with a powerful female lead, the UK series delivers an unforgettable watching experience similar to great character-driven dramas like Queer as Folk.
6. Being Human
Supernatural stories about vampires, werewolves, and ghosts have always captured viewer attention, and Being Human offers one of the most unique takes on the genre. Two years after the British series premiered on BBC, the US remake found a home on Syfy in 2011. The premise follows a ghost, a werewolf, and a vampire sharing a house while trying to live normal lives among humans. Both versions balance drama, witty comedy, and suspense exceptionally well, making this one of the few British shows remade in America where both iterations built strong, dedicated fanbases.
7. Queer as Folk
Queer as Folk created a major splash when it premiered in the UK, created by Russell T Davies to offer a groundbreaking look at gay culture in Manchester. When Showtime adapted the concept for American television, it resonated deeply with audiences and ran for five seasons, far surpassing the run of the original two-series UK version. Filled with romance, drama, and groundbreaking character arcs, the US adaptation expanded the world of the original while maintaining its emotional core. If you are looking for a captivating drama with rich storytelling, this series remains a landmark milestone in television history.
Quick takeaway list for your next binge-watching session:
- Watch the US Version for: Longer character arcs in The Office and Shameless.
- Watch the UK Original for: Raw storytelling and original humor in Skins, The Inbetweeners, and Prime Suspect.
These seven series are just a few examples of American TV shows that were originally British, and the list of cross-Atlantic adaptations continues to grow every year. Exploring both versions offers a unique look at how storytelling changes across different cultures. Did any of these remakes surprise you? Which version of these iconic shows do you prefer watching? Let us know your favorite adaptations in the comments below!