Read on to find currently running or still-available TV reboots that not only charm the over-60 set, but that younger viewers are also eager to watch.
Matlock (CBS)
Credit: AP
Credit: AP
Ironically, today’s seniors might have considered the original 1980s Matlock as a “grandparent show,” starring as it did the then-60ish Andy Griffith. But whether you were a fan of the legal drama then, or are just curious about the buzz generated by the new gender-flipped version, now is the time to get into this reboot!
Acclaimed actress Kathy Bates takes on the title role for the current CBS drama with her trademark wry pluck. In fact, one of the comic elements of the courtroom drama involves Bates’ coming-out-of-retirement widow using her self-described “invisibility” as an older woman to let her enemies underestimate her – at their peril.
Frasier (Paramount+)
That sparklingly sophisticated Cheers spinoff from the 90s, Frasier, is back again! The new Frasier is a bit of a hybrid of reboot and sequel, with Kelsey Grammar reprising his original role.
The current Frasier finds the “eminent psychiatrist” moving to Boston to accept a position at Harvard, as well as to reconnect with his adult son, Freddy, a professional firefighter. This premise opens up fresh avenues for workplace comedy hijinks at both Harvard and the fire station, as well as within Frasier and Freddy’s across-the-hall apartments. The result? The same heady mixture of intellectual wordplay and blue-collar humor that worked so well on the original series.
Shogun (Hulu)
Credit: AP
Credit: AP
Back in the 80s, miniseries were once-in-a-blue-moon events, and Shogun led the pack. The prestigious show, based on the historical fiction book by James Clavell, was led by heartthrob Richard Chamberlain.
Now, the captivating story set in 16th century Japan is back, with a multi-season commitment to let viewers learn even more about the rich culture and intriguing characters. If you haven’t already watched the smash first season of the Shogun reboot, check it out.
And Just Like That (Max)
Credit: TNS
Credit: TNS
Plenty of Gen-Xers and Boomers still talk about whether they’re a Carrie, Miranda, Samantha or Charlotte. And why not? After all, Sex and the City fever is still going strong – especially with the advent of the reboot, And Just Like That, starring three-fourths of the original cast.
Now a widow after the devastating Episode 1 death of Mr. Big, Carrie leans on her friends more than ever in the reboot’s ensuing episodes. Of course, the original SATC gals each gain new friends, love interests and even kids along the way.
And don’t overlook ...
Check out these recent reboots, if you haven’t already. Although they’re not releasing any new seasons, they’re still available to stream:
- One Day at a Time (2017-2020, Netflix and Pop TV). This Latina take on the 70s classic has legend Rita Morena stealing the show as the grandmother, with the bubbly Justina Machado in the Bonnie Franklin role as a single mom.
- Lost in Space (2018-2021, Netflix). “Danger, Will Robinson!” The thrills and chills of the original 60s space adventure show are still there, along with impressive 21st century special effects. Three seasons of fun and drama are to be had in this reboot, featuring The Robot, along with the dastardly Parker Posey as a female Dr. Smith.
- The Fall Guy (2024, Multiple Streamers) OK, this one’s a bit of a cheat –it’s a movie reboot of a beloved series. But if you were a fan of the 1980s show starring Lee Majors as a stuntman, you’ll adore Ryan Gosling’s charming take on the title role. And Majors even makes a cameo!
About the Author