7 Miniseries Turned TV Shows That Surprised Fans With Renewals

Many of the best TV shows originally started as miniseries, but ended up being renewed for further seasons because of their popularity. Bingeable miniseries are usually designed to last for only one season and can vary in episode length, but they are meant to tell a standalone story. TV writers may feel that their stories have limited content for just a few episodes and that their characters' journeys have already reached their conclusion.

With the rise of the internet and social media, audiences can now easily share their love for a show. Public opinion can lead to a demand for more episodes of a miniseries, turning it into a full-fledged TV series. While there have been many brilliant and beloved miniseries over the years, only a few have successfully made the transition to becoming regular TV shows.

Beef (2023 –)

Bringing A New Hilarity To Road Rage

Amy and Danny walking out of a tunnel in Beef - Bringing A New Hilarity To Road Rage - Beef (2023 –)

In the ten episodes of Beef, viewers witnessed the chaotic relationship between Amy (Ali Wong) and Danny (Steven Yeun) unfold. The season 1 finale left us wondering about the future of the show. While Danny's hospitalization without death could potentially resolve their conflict, it also has the potential to intensify their feud. This open-ended conclusion of Beef leaves the door open for a second season or allows it to stand alone as a complete series.

Broadchurch (2013 – 2017)

In February 2024, Netflix hinted at the possibility of a second season for Beef. While there hasn't been an official confirmation yet, the success of the first season makes it highly probable. Creator Lee Sung Jin even has plans for at least three seasons of the show, adding to the likelihood of Beef continuing its run.

The Murder Mystery That Gripped A Nation

Alec, Ellie, and the Reverend at Danny's grave in Broadchurch - The Murder Mystery That Gripped A Nation - Broadchurch (2013 – 2017)

Hit British drama Broadchurch made waves with its captivating and brilliant whodunnit storyline. Originally planned as a limited series by writer Chris Chibnall, the show aired three seasons from 2013 to 2017. Each season focused on a new crime, with David Tennant and Olivia Coleman leading the way as Detectives in a small seaside town. Chibnall, with a trilogy in mind for Broadchurch, ensured that season 1 could stand alone as a self-contained story if needed (via RTS).

The success of Broadchurch season 1 led to ITV commissioning season 2 midway through its airing. The show sparked such widespread discussion in the UK that the decision to announce season 2 was made public as the credits rolled on the season 1 finale. This pattern continued with Broadchurch season 3, where although a return was not initially confirmed, the announcement of its renewal came at the end of the season 2 finale.

The White Lotus (2021 –)

Vacations Will Never Be The Same

Jennifer Coolidge as Tanya dressed in pink and wearing sunglasses in The White Lotus - Vacations Will Never Be The Same - The White Lotus (2021 –)

Initially planned as a six-part series, HBO's The White Lotus became so popular that it was renewed as an anthology series. Each season follows a similar format, introducing characters staying at the White Lotus resorts. Season 1 took place in Maui, season 2 in Sicily, and season 3, set to premiere in 2025 due to WGA strikes delays, will be based in Thailand.

Good Omens (2019 –)

A Twist On Armageddon

Crowley and Aziraphale riding a bus together in Good Omens - A Twist On Armageddon - Good Omens (2019 –)

Good Omens, the TV adaptation of the beloved novel by Terry Prachett and Neil Gaiman, became a hit on Amazon Prime Video with its first season. Fans were thrilled to see Michael Sheen as Aziraphale and David Tennant as Crowley bring the characters to life. After years of anticipation, it was finally confirmed in 2017 that Good Omens would have only six episodes.

The TV series "13 Reasons Why" aired from 2017 to 2020. Despite its popularity, a new season was not announced until a year after the previous season ended. Finally, in July 2023, the long-awaited season 2 was released and received a positive reception from fans. In December 2023, it was confirmed that "13 Reasons Why" would have a season 3, which will serve as the final installment of the series.

Life After Hannah Baker

Clay walking Hannah home with his bike in 13 Reasons Why - Life After Hannah Baker - 13 Reasons Why (2017 – 2020)

The TV show 13 Reasons Why, based on the Jay Asher novel of the same name, was initially planned to have only one season. Even though there were some differences between the book and the TV adaptation, the first season followed a similar storyline and format, making it suitable as a standalone series. Despite this, a second season was approved in 2017, leading to a total of four seasons before concluding in 2020.

Some viewers criticized the decision to extend the show beyond the initial season, especially since it had already covered all the content from the original book. However, the following seasons delved deeper into the lives and backgrounds of each character. Subsequent seasons explored the repercussions of Hannah's death, her parents' legal action, and the guilt felt by those involved. While opinions vary on whether 13 Reasons Why should have remained a limited series, the strong ratings of the first season suggested a demand for more episodes.

The Watcher (2022 –)

Inspired By A Real-Life Threat In New Jersey

A figure watching over a house in The Watcher - Inspired By A Real-Life Threat In New Jersey - The Watcher (2022 –)

The first season of the mystery thriller series The Watcher ended on a suspenseful note, creating a chilling and tense atmosphere that left viewers eagerly awaiting the next installment. Drawing inspiration from a true story, creators Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan adapted an article by Reeves Wiedeman in 2018 (via The Cut) into a gripping narrative about a family plagued by threatening letters in their new home. When it premiered in 2022, the show received a range of reviews from critics, blending elements of fiction with true crime to captivate audiences.

The Watcher had originally been planned as a miniseries, so the announcement of The Watcher season 2 in November 2022 came as a surprise. Although there are limited details available about the upcoming season, it appears that the unresolved crime from the first season has sparked significant interest. It remains uncertain if The Watcher season 2 will delve deeper into this storyline.

Solving Murders From The Skies

Kaley Cuoco as Cassie on the phone in The Flight Attendant - Solving Murders From The Skies - The Flight Attendant (2020 – 2022)

Kaley Cuoco starred in and produced the TV show The Flight Attendant, based on Chris Bohjalian's novel. The first season, consisting of eight episodes, premiered in 2020 and received critical acclaim. Cuoco's performance earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

Following the success of the first season, HBO Max renewed The Flight Attendant for a second season, which aired in 2022. Season 2 explored a new storyline for Cassie, the lead character, who was depicted as newly sober and embarking on a different journey in life. Unfortunately, the show was canceled in January 2024 after just two seasons.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the intriguing world of miniseries that have transitioned into full-fledged TV shows, shedding light on their captivating storylines and the factors that contribute to their success. It highlights the power of public opinion and the influence of social media in shaping the fate of these shows. The examples provided, such as "Beef," "Broadchurch," and "The White Lotus," showcase the diverse range of genres and formats that can find success in this evolving landscape.

Overall, the article provides a thought-provoking analysis of the phenomenon of miniseries-turned-TV shows, exploring the complex dynamics between storytelling, audience engagement, and the ever-changing entertainment industry. It demonstrates the importance of adaptability and the ability to cater to the evolving tastes of viewers, while also highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie in this unique format.