The Do's and Don'ts of writing a Sequel series and/or a spin-off show

As the title would suggest, i'm hoping to learn the do's and don'ts of either giving a show that i like a sequel series or a spin-off.

Now don't get the wrong idea, i know what both are:

A sequel series is a show that takes place after the original series and basically continues the story where the original left off (sometimes directly, sometimes through a time-skip).

A Spin-Off, on the other hand, is a basically a show that takes a certain aspect of the original goes on that; example: a character that was originally a supporter or minor in the original series.

What i want to know is what are the do's and don'ts to making one, especially in terms of a fanfic?

Well, it's usually very individualistic. I can't say for everyone but I tend to just write without regard for exact definition (can't differentiate between different "flavors" of AU, crossover, SE ect to save my life.) So personally I'd say if it's a typical written-online-share-with-peeps fic then it's probably not too important to make such precise distinctions.

Then again I'm starting to notice that my opinions seem to make me the "stoned-hippie" of the writing world. "Do whatever maan, be cool!" so make of that what you will.

(Also maybe a bit more clarification? I'm not quite sure exactly what your original post is asking. :)

My preferences for the sequel series:

• If there was an ensemble cast before, don't make the sequel all about the canon main character and his inner circle.
  
• At the same time, don't have the existing cast/cameos return to fill every potential role in the new plot as though they're the only ones who exist in the series' world. Especially not when the original series was good about introducing new characters when needed. Most importantly, don't reuse arc villains unless there's definitely somewhere worthwhile to go with their return.
  
• Do not inflate the scope of the sequel series far past that of the original, unless the ending of the original justifies it. Something like having a low-ranking gangbanger becoming a freelance assassin on the run after killing his boss in the end of the original series could work, but don't have something like a rookie cop suddenly recruited by the CIA for his "outstanding work" in getting promoted at the series finale. Likewise, try to avoid leaps like going from very hard to very soft sci-fi, or turning low-key Urban Fantasy into a Fantasy Kitchen Sink.

edited 5th Dec '14 5:25:49 PM by DoctorDiabolical