We all have TV shows from our youth that we are hoping will make a reappearance back on our screens. Now more than ever, classic dramas and TV staples are receiving a reboot to make them more relevant for current audiences and put some nostalgia back into mainstream media.
Many of us tune in to watch revamps and revivals because we desire a simpler time. Not only is it nice to revisit old characters and storylines, but TV nostalgia is actually good for our brains. It helps us with our emotional regulation and is therapeutic since it requires very little cognitive effort.
Some notable TV shows that are making a comeback include:
Deal Or No Deal
This iconic TV series originally aired on Channel 4 between 2005 and 2016. In the ultimate game of luck and strategy, contestants have the chance to walk away with up to £100,000 but with the same risk of leaving with 1p. Made up of six rounds, players are offered various deals from the Banker.
The show is now back with a fresh new host and contestants hoping to win an impressive cash prize. The revival of Deal Or No Deal has allowed other variations of the game show to appear, including tombola’s Deal or No Deal app and arcade games.
Gladiators
One of the most exciting sports entertainment shows to ever hit British screens, Gladiators is returning with an entirely new look and generation of superhuman contenders. The aim of the show is to compete against each other through gruelling trials of speed and strength until one victor reigns supreme.
Gladiators debuted as a Saturday night staple back in 1992 and ran for eight seasons before being taken off the air in 2000. It experienced a little comeback in 2008 but is receiving a full-scale makeover for its newest revival, nearly 15 years on.
Jeopardy
Jeopardy previously aired between 1983 and 1996 and is a quiz show that made three players go head-to-head in a battle of razor-sharp intelligence and speed. You’ve got to be quick on the buzzer and get your questions right if you’re in for the chance of winning a cash prize.
The show was initially hosted by Derek Hobson but has since been taken over by British icon and former QI presenter Stephen Fry.
Wheel of Fortune
Ranked as one of the UK’s favourite TV shows from the 80s, Wheel of Fortune was originally based on the American version of the game show that was created by Marv Griffin. To win this show, a contestant had to solve word puzzles to win cash prizes that were determined by spinning the iconic ‘wheel of fortune’.
The show returned for its revival in January 2024 with host, Graham Norton, at the helm.