TV spin-offs might spin way off

By NYSSA BULKES

TV is sick.

“The Office” is rumored to spin off in to another series, as is “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Two shows with fabulously successful runs, and producers want more.

Well, aren’t we just greedy little TV people.

“The Office” is one of NBC’s most notable shows. The writing is top-notch, the characters are as believable as they come and the producers couldn’t be happier. Which is why they’ve decided to re-invent the wheel and break the mold that’s garnered them millions. That’s just so logical. Really. It’s about as logical as a yard sale in January.

Prescription for this spin-off: Sleep it off. Wait until the show stops airing and then spin off. This spin-off scenario smells suspiciously of “Friends” and the ill-fated “Joey.” Nothing against Matt LeBlanc, but you can’t have friends with just one guy.

“Beverly Hills, 90210,” on the other hand, has been defunct for long enough. Nothing equals television prowess like sex and Jason Priestley. Nothing equals awkward spin-off, however, like an old show revamped with new characters. According to Variety magazine, none of the new characters are in the mix for the anticipated comeback. The show, which will air on the CW if OK’d, will focus on a brand new group of people about whom we care as much as we care about “Dancing with the Stars.”

Prescription for this spin-off: Amputation. Abandon this effort before Aaron Spelling rises from his grave to pull the plug himself. Regardless of its soap-opera identity, the show lived a long and true life. Let it rest in peace.

On the other hand, “ER” – TV’s “Land Before Time” – will be allowed to rest in peace come the end of season 15, and all 36 of its viewers are devastated. Previous rumors of a comeback were diffused last week, as NBC confirmed this year will be the show’s last. Series creator John Wells diffused rumors that the show would spin-off, starring John Stamos. NBC, CW, behold: A wise decision to maintain the integrity of an original series.

Prescription for this spin-off: Cured. It underwent a course of antibiotics, and it can enjoy its old age in peace.