The Best TV Show Universes: A Deep Dive into Shared Universes

Introduction

Television has become a playground for storytelling, and within this expansive arena, the concept of shared universes has taken center stage. It's not just movies that can have a wide array of projects within the same franchise; television has also conquered this territory. The idea of having multiple television series that all take place in the same universe is not new, but the explosion of popularity in recent years has brought this concept to the forefront of entertainment. This article delves into the intricacies of shared TV show universes and explores some of the best examples in the industry.

Sam, Diane, and Frasier in Cheers

The Cheers Universe

The Cheers Universe is a prime example of a shared TV show universe, encompassing shows like Cheers, The Tortellis, Frasier, Wings, and St. Elsewhere. These interconnected shows offer a glimpse into the dynamics of a well-crafted shared universe. While Cheers and Frasier stand out as the mainstays of the universe, the interconnectedness of the other shows within the St. Elsewhere universe raises intriguing questions about the reality of the entire franchise. The success of Cheers and Frasier, coupled with the loose connection to the other shows, presents a compelling case for examining the intricacies of shared universes in television.

Elena leaving the Gilbert house with the Salvatore brothers in The Vampire Diaries

The Vampire Diaries Universe

The Vampire Diaries Universe offers a captivating exploration of spin-offs and interconnected narratives within the realm of supernatural teen drama. With shows like The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, and Legacies, this universe presents a compelling case study for the expansion of a successful series into a broader narrative landscape. The magic of The Vampire Diaries was a force to be reckoned with, and the spin-offs, while engaging, did not quite recapture the essence of the original series. This universe serves as a fascinating example of the challenges and triumphs of expanding a beloved TV show into a larger universe.

Daniel Gillies as Elijah Choking Ian Somerhalder as Damon in The Vampire Diaries

The One Chicago Universe

The One Chicago Universe, comprising Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med, and Chicago Justice, offers a dramatic portrayal of interconnected first responders' units in Chicago. This expansive universe, while filled with gripping drama and life-or-death situations, raises questions about the impact of procedural universes and the potential for repetitive storytelling. The formula and stakes of crossover events within the One Chicago Universe present an intriguing angle for exploring the dynamics of shared TV show universes.

Voight talks on the phone in Chicago PD