The Hidden Gems: Unveiling 10 Underrated TV Characters Who Deserve Their Own Spectacular Spinoff

Throughout television history, there have been a multitude of beloved minor characters that sometimes surpass the popularity of the main characters, making them deserving of their own spinoff. However, spinoffs typically go to supporting characters, such as Matt LeBlanc reprising his role as Joey Tribbiani from Friends in the show Joey, or Kelsey Grammer's Frasier Crane moving from Boston to Seattle and getting his own show, Frasier. Despite the general trend of minor characters not receiving spinoffs, there are plenty of "unimportant" characters in television shows who are truly fantastic and entertaining, warranting their own series. Sitcoms, in particular, feature many hilarious characters who make sporadic appearances but always manage to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, certain drama characters also deserve the opportunity to further explore their stories in a separate series.

10 Jean-Ralphio Saperstein (Parks & Rec)

9 Jeff The Doorman (The Good Place)

: Jean-Ralphio Saperstein, portrayed by Ben Schwartz, outshines all other amusing and unique minor characters in Parks & Rec. As Tom Haverford's closest companion, Jean-Ralphio epitomizes the worst qualities (a tune he would enthusiastically sing). His affluent upbringing coupled with his ignorance and lack of empathy doesn't make him the best friend, but undeniably, he adds unparalleled hilarity to the sitcom. In a shocking turn of events, at the conclusion of Parks & Rec, Jean-Ralphio and his sister, Mona-Lisa, stage their own demise to claim insurance funds, which unfailingly leaves us yearning for an NBC spinoff chronicling their escapades on the lam.

The Good Place's Jeff the Doorman, portrayed by Mike O'Malley, is an intriguingly unusual character. A spinoff exploring his adventures would undeniably captivate audiences. As fans may remember, Jeff is entrusted with guarding the door to Earth in the comedic series, and his deadpan demeanor is nothing short of exceptional. Interestingly, Jeff's passion for frogs is the only time he displays genuine excitement or emotion. Imagining a prequel spinoff centered around Jeff, his encounters with various individuals at his job, and the origins of his affection for frogs is truly tantalizing.

8 Nat (Bob's Burgers)

7 Erica (Stranger Things)

Like many other shows on this list, Bob's Burgers boasts a plethora of charming, unparalleled, and comical supporting characters. However, standing out among them is Nat Kinkle, expertly voiced by Jillian Bell. Nat, a limousine driver, makes her debut in the Valentine's Day episode of season 8, joining Linda and Louise in their quest to uplift Tina's spirits with a night out on the town. From the instant Nat graces the screen, she becomes an instant icon. With her effortless humor and relatability, fans of Bob's Burgers crave a spinoff featuring Nat.

Erica Sinclair, portrayed by Priah Ferguson, is officially a member of the main cast in the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. However, her limited presence in season 4 was highly disappointing. Despite being featured in the opening credits, Erica was treated as a secondary character by the writers. This injustice calls for another show dedicated to Erica after the conclusion of Stranger Things (assuming she survives). Erica gained a strong following after her remarkable involvement with the Scoops Troop in season 3. Her witty remarks and unexpected depth make her deserving of a spinoff.

6 Smitty (The Rookie)

ABC's The Rookie already has a spinoff (The Rookie: Feds); however, to expand the franchise further, the network ought to concentrate on Officer Smitty, portrayed by the exceptionally talented Brent Huff. With his comical blunders and unexpected outside interests, Smitty warrants his own sitcom. Nevertheless, it may be prudent for him to first resign from the Los Angeles Police Department as it is evident that pursuing a career as a police officer is not his true calling.

5 Creed (The Office)

Creed, a mysterious character in The Office, deserves his own spinoff that explores all the unanswered questions from the original series. In the series finale, Creed's criminal activities led to his arrest for drug dealing, trafficking an endangered species' meat, and stealing weapons-grade LSD from the military. Although it seemed like the end of his story, Creed could have easily escaped custody and embarked on a thrilling chase, which would have made an exceptional television show.

4 Aneesa (Never Have I Ever)

Like Erica in Stranger Things season 4, Aneesa Qureshi, portrayed by Megan Suri, was let down by Never Have I Ever season 4. Introduced as Devi Vishwakumar's new frenemy in season 2 of the Netflix comedy series, Aneesa and Devi eventually formed a strong bond. However, as the final season approached, it seemed like Aneesa was forgotten by the writers. To rectify this oversight, Netflix should provide Aneesa with her own series, chronicling her adventures during college.

3 Ranjit (How I Met Your Mother)

Undoubtedly, one of the standout minor characters in the popular sitcom How I Met Your Mother is Ranjit Singh, portrayed by Marshall Manesh. Initially introduced as a taxi driver in the pilot episode, Ranjit subsequently transitions into the core five's go-to chauffeur, operating a luxurious limousine. Towards the end of the show's run, Future Ted reveals that Ranjit eventually purchases the limo company he once worked for, thanks to successful stock investments. While How I Met Your Father serves as a decent spinoff, it would undeniably be enhanced by including the beloved character of Ranjit.

2 Adrian Pimento (Brooklyn 99)

It's high time to give Jason Mantzoukas his own show, and what better way than a Brooklyn 99 spinoff with his unforgettable recurring character, Adrian Pimento? Pimento is undeniably one of the most eccentric personalities in the comedy series, and Mantzoukas flawlessly brings to life all of his idiosyncrasies and intense traits. Towards the end of Brooklyn 99, we witness Pimento aiding Rosa Diaz in the final heist before embarking on a flight to Canada. There is undoubtedly a wealth of untold stories surrounding Pimento, and it would be incredibly difficult to refuse more of Brooklyn 99's magic.

1 Deja (This Is Us)

Given the multitude of characters in the drama series, NBC has an abundance of spinoff ideas to choose from following the conclusion of This Is Us in May 2022. However, it becomes evident after the series finale that the individual who immensely deserves another show is none other than Deja (as portrayed by La Trice Harper in her adult form). The final episodes brilliantly lay the groundwork for numerous captivating storylines featuring Deja's character, including her exhilarating career as a medical professional, her pregnancy, and her evolving relationship with Malik. If NBC is seeking further inspiration for television show concepts, the most logical starting point would unquestionably be Deja's character in This Is Us.