Will Any Wilmington-Shot TV Shows Get Spinoffs or Reboots?

When a TV series gains success, it usually sparks discussions about spinoffs, reboots, or cast reunions. Whether these plans come to fruition depends on various factors, including funding, interest from networks or streaming platforms, and often, the willingness of the original actors to participate.

Regarding popular TV shows filmed in Wilmington, only one has seen a true spinoff or reboot, with another possibly counting if you stretch the definition. However, more spinoffs might be on the horizon. Let’s explore some possibilities.

The final three seasons of the popular legal drama/comedy, Matlock, starring Andy Griffith as the savvy lawyer Ben Matlock, were filmed in Wilmington in 1993 and 1994. Now, after 30 years, a new version of Matlock will air on CBS starting October 17, following a special preview on September 22. This reboot stars Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a lawyer. The new Matlock will also be available on Paramount+. According to a trailer, Matty is not related to Ben, but the original Matlock exists within this new series as an old TV show. The show’s creators have mentioned that the new series aims to address ageism. In a teaser, Bates (as Matty) remarks that being “invisible” is useful because “nobody sees us coming.”

Chances: 100 percent.

The teen drama Dawson’s Creek, filmed in Wilmington, celebrated its 25th anniversary this year. Despite years of reboot rumors, the likelihood of a revival isn’t promising. Although there was a brief spinoff called Young Americans, it did not feature the show’s main stars. Katie Holmes and James Van Der Beek have consistently declined participation, and Joshua Jackson once noted on Ellen DeGeneres’ talk show that a reunion might shock fans. Additionally, Michelle Williams’ character dies in the series finale.

Chances: Slim to none.

Actors from the long-running show One Tree Hill, also filmed in Wilmington, have expressed openness to the idea of a reboot. It now seems a revival is becoming a reality. According to an article from entertainment publication Variety, Netflix is developing a sequel to the series. Original stars Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, and Danneel Ackles are executive producing the reboot, with Bush and Burton reprising their roles and Ackles also in talks to return. Chad Michael Murray mentioned on The Today Show that a reboot is “needed” and echoed similar sentiments in People magazine, highlighting the show’s potential to tackle contemporary societal issues. Furthermore, Sophia Bush and her fellow castmates have discussed the idea of reclaiming the show from a feminist perspective on their podcast Drama Queens.

Chances: Close to 100 percent.

The Prime Video series The Summer I Turned Pretty wrapped its third season of filming in Wilmington, expected to air in the summer of 2025. This season is believed to be the final one, as the show is based on a three-book series by showrunner Jenny Han. Han and the producers have hinted at possible spinoffs, although it’s unclear if they will be filmed in Wilmington even if they receive the green light.

Chances: More likely than not.

The Runarounds, currently in production in Wilmington, is a show created by Wilmington resident Jonas Pate. While Pate doesn’t consider it a spinoff, the show’s band briefly appears in the third season of his other series, Outer Banks. Although technically not a spinoff, it feels destined for Wilmington since Pate initially planned to shoot Outer Banks there. Once completed, The Runarounds will air on Amazon’s Prime Video service.

Chances: 100 percent.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Will any of these Wilmington-shot TV shows get spinoffs or reboots?

Source: Wilmington StarNews, Variety, People Magazine, CBS