TV Shows That Race-Swapped Icons and Actually Gained More Fans

Today’s TV shows often update classic stories to better represent the diversity of modern audiences. A common approach is to change the racial backgrounds of well-known characters, adding new perspectives and interesting relationships to familiar tales. While these choices sometimes cause discussion at first, they often lead to more compelling stories and attract a wider audience. The series below show how choosing diverse actors can improve the original material and connect with viewers on a deeper level.

‘Bridgerton’ (2020–Present)

The show creatively re-envisioned London’s Regency era by featuring people of color among the upper class. Simon Basset, a captivating and intriguing bachelor, quickly became the center of attention. The strong connection between him and Daphne was the key to the show’s massive success. Viewers loved its beautiful sets and costumes, and its willingness to move beyond strict historical accuracy. This fresh take on period romance resonated with a new audience and redefined the genre for modern television.

‘House of the Dragon’ (2022–Present)

The creators of the show made a deliberate choice to depict House Velaryon, an old and powerful family, as Black sailors. This immediately highlights Corlys Velaryon’s strength and influence throughout Westeros. This visual difference between the Targaryen and Velaryon families also helps viewers follow the complicated issues of who should rule. Audiences quickly connected with the actors and the compelling history they brought to these important characters. The series successfully added depth to the world of the show while continuing to attract a large audience.

‘The Sandman’ (2022–Present)

Kirby Howell-Baptiste’s portrayal of Death is surprisingly warm and understanding, a far cry from the traditional scary image of the grim reaper. She gently helps souls transition to the afterlife, offering a comforting contrast to her brother Dream’s more somber nature. This take on the character beautifully captured the heart of the original comics while also feeling new and exciting. Many viewers and critics praised her first episode as a standout emotional moment of the season, proving that staying true to a character’s essence is more important than simply recreating their appearance.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (2022–Present)

This new version of the story moves the action to New Orleans in the early 1900s and stars Jacob Anderson as Louis de Pointe du Lac. It delves into the racial inequalities of the Jim Crow South, adding extra depth and sadness to Louis’s life as a vampire. Louis’s internal conflict and his complex connection with Lestat feel fresh, while still staying true to the original story’s core ideas. Critics and horror fans alike praised the strong connection between the two main actors. By connecting the supernatural elements to the real tensions of the time, this reimagining has revitalized the franchise.

‘Elementary’ (2012–2019)

Lucy Liu’s portrayal of Joan Watson reimagined the character as a skilled surgeon who became a sober companion. Her relationship with Sherlock Holmes wasn’t just a typical detective-sidekick pairing; it grew into a true partnership. The show, which lasted seven seasons, attracted a dedicated audience who loved its fresh take on the classic Sherlock Holmes stories. Watson became a fully developed character with her own motivations and strong investigative abilities. The series proved that changing a character’s gender or race can actually make them more compelling.

‘The Boys’ (2019–Present)

Jessie T. Usher portrays A-Train, a superhero whose incredible speed is funded by a powerful corporation. A-Train is constantly worried about staying on top and struggles with being a person of color within a flawed and unethical superhero organization. His storyline explores how athletes can be taken advantage of and the negative impact of fame in today’s media-driven world. Viewers enjoy how the show uses A-Train to poke fun at celebrity lifestyles and the way companies build their brands. This mix of social criticism and thrilling action is a key reason the series has become so popular.

‘Hannibal’ (2013–2015)

Laurence Fishburne delivers a powerful and commanding performance as Jack Crawford in this suspenseful thriller. He plays Crawford as a man deeply affected by the disturbing cases he handles. The dynamic between Crawford and Hannibal Lecter is a gripping, back-and-forth struggle that forms the core of the series. Fishburne’s performance adds emotional depth, balancing the show’s often unsettling visuals. Many fans consider this portrayal of the character to be the best one yet.

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

The updated version of this classic sci-fi show intentionally diversified its cast, portraying Colonel Saul Tigh as white and Boomer as Asian. Grace Park’s nuanced performance as Boomer made the reveal of her true identity as a Cylon particularly impactful. Through these characters, the series delved into complex questions of identity and loyalty amidst the backdrop of war. These changes were key to the show’s transformation from a lighthearted, campy series into a highly praised and critically acclaimed drama, and it’s frequently considered one of the best science fiction shows of all time.

‘Watchmen’ (2019)

The show surprisingly reveals that the first superhero, Hooded Justice, was actually a Black man named Will Reeves. This changes how we understand the history of superheroes in the show’s world. The story connects his beginnings to the tragic Tulsa Race Massacre and examines how trauma can be passed down through families. Viewers have celebrated the show’s daring approach to storytelling and its expansion of the original graphic novel. This unexpected twist added a powerful social message that deeply affected the audience.

‘The Umbrella Academy’ (2019–2024)

Allison Hargreeves, portrayed by Emmy Raver-Lampman, is a powerful character who can change reality. The show explores her experiences as a Black woman across different eras, often forcing her to hide her abilities for safety. In the second season, she finds herself in the midst of the Civil Rights movement, highlighting how her powers connect with historical events. Viewers have resonated with her attempts to juggle family obligations and fight for what’s right. A big reason the show remains popular is the strong connection between the actors.

‘Castlevania’ (2017–2021)

The show offers a fresh take on the character of Isaac, portraying him as a skilled Black Sufi Muslim blacksmith who is loyal to Dracula. His thoughtful discussions and personal growth make him one of the most interesting characters in the series. Throughout the show, Isaac transforms from someone driven by revenge into a man searching for meaning in a turbulent world. Many viewers especially enjoyed his story arc in the later seasons, praising both the writing and the voice performance. This reimagining successfully turned a minor villain from the original game into a compelling and well-loved hero.

‘Invincible’ (2021–Present)

The animated series reimagines Amber Bennett as a confident and funny Black teenager. It delves into the challenges of her relationship with Mark Grayson, showing what it’s like to date a superhero while also trying to live a typical teenage life. Unlike the original comics, this version of Amber is much more independent and well-developed, a change that’s been widely discussed and praised. The show’s realistic and complex approach to superheroes has made it a huge success.

‘Shadow and Bone’ (2021–2023)

Jessie Mei Li plays Alina Starkov, a character with a difficult past as a half-Shu orphan who experiences discrimination. This upbringing explains her strong need for acceptance and belonging. The show explores themes of mixed-race identity within its fantasy world. Book fans have applauded Li for capturing both the strength and fragility of the Sun Summoner. The series also skillfully combines different storylines from the books to build a unified and richly detailed world.

‘The Witcher’ (2019–Present)

Anya Chalotra was cast as the strong and magical Yennefer of Vengerberg. She brilliantly shows Yennefer’s journey from a mistreated outsider to a remarkably powerful mage. The show delves much deeper into her past, helping viewers understand why she acts the way she does. Despite some doubts at first, the series became a huge hit for the streaming service. Chalotra’s performance brings a powerful emotional depth that complements the main character’s reserved personality.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (2017–Present)

Samira Wiley powerfully portrays Moira as a strong force fighting against the oppressive government in Gilead. The show expands on the original story to include a wider variety of women facing the same hardships. Moira’s bond with June provides a crucial emotional center, especially during the show’s most difficult scenes. Audiences admire Moira for her resilience and steadfast dedication to those she cares about. By updating the original novel, the series continues to resonate with viewers and reflect current societal anxieties.

‘Lost in Space’ (2018–2021)

Taylor Russell stars as Judy Robinson in a fresh take on the beloved sci-fi series about the Robinson family. This version shows the family as a modern, blended group, working together to overcome challenges on different planets. Judy is the team’s brave doctor, frequently putting herself in danger to protect her siblings. The show feels relatable and authentic because of the actors’ strong performances, and it’s brought the franchise to a new, younger audience who appreciate the diverse cast.

‘Preacher’ (2016–2019)

Ruth Negga is captivating as Tulip O’Hare, bringing both wildness and charm to the character. She convincingly portrays Tulip’s complex nature, showing both a fierce side and a genuine affection for Jesse Custer. The strong connection between the two actors is central to the story, helping to make the show’s strange and fantastical events believable. Critics particularly admired Negga’s ability to make Tulip a fully realized character, much more than just a romantic interest. The show itself has gained a dedicated fanbase thanks to its unusual mix of dark comedy and western themes.

‘Riverdale’ (2017–2023)

Camila Mendes portrays Veronica Lodge, a stylish and confident Latina teenager who relocates to a close-knit town. The series reimagines familiar comic book characters for a more inclusive and contemporary high school setting. Throughout the show, Veronica navigates her father’s criminal background and a complicated family history. She quickly becomes a trendsetter and a key player in the show’s ongoing mysteries. These fresh takes on the characters helped the show build a large and dedicated fanbase on social media.

‘The Flash’ (2014–2023)

Candice Patton played Iris West, a brave reporter who was also Barry Allen’s main love interest and a source of strong emotions. Throughout the series, her character grew from being a romantic partner to a key leader of Team Flash. The love story between Barry and Iris was the heart of the show, providing stability amidst the wild adventures across different universes. Viewers loved their connection and appreciated how important Iris became to the overall story. The show lasted nine seasons and was a defining part of the Arrowverse for almost ten years.

‘Supergirl’ (2015–2021)

Mehcad Brooks portrayed James Olsen as a successful and self-assured photojournalist who also worked in media management. Unlike previous versions, this James Olsen emerged as a hero independent of Superman, eventually becoming the Guardian and fighting alongside the show’s main hero to protect National City. The series used his story to examine the role of the media and what it truly means to be a hero. The casting transformed a classic, less prominent sidekick into a strong, proactive leading character.

‘Titans’ (2018–2023)

Anna Diop brings a sense of dignity and intriguing backstory to her role as Starfire. Though some fans initially questioned her casting, they quickly embraced her powerful performance and the strong connection she shares with her fellow characters. She plays the alien princess as a strong, capable warrior deeply devoted to those she considers family. The show’s visual effects and costume design successfully blended the character’s comic book roots with the show’s darker style. As a result, Starfire became a particularly beloved character, praised for both her strength and emotional complexity.

‘Doctor Who’ (2005–Present)

Ncuti Gatwa has become the Fifteenth Doctor, bringing a fresh and energetic feel to the classic sci-fi series. He plays the Time Lord with charm and style, while still capturing the character’s deep wisdom. The show is staying current by casting diverse leads, reflecting the makeup of modern Britain. So far, viewers have been very impressed with Gatwa’s performance and ability to convey emotion, helping to keep the show vital and forward-thinking after six decades.

‘Merlin’ (2008–2012)

Angel Coulby’s Guinevere starts as a simple servant but becomes Queen of Camelot through her own merit. Her relationship with Arthur grows naturally from a strong friendship and genuine respect, not from a political match. The show highlights Guinevere’s compassion and intelligence as key traits of a good leader. This fresh take on the Arthurian story resonated with fantasy fans because of its emotional depth and well-developed characters. Even years after it ended, the series remains popular and has a loyal following.

‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ (2023–Present)

Leah Sava Jeffries shines as Annabeth Chase, portraying her as both a smart thinker and a skilled fighter-in-training. The original author supported her casting, recognizing her ability to bring the character to life. Jeffries perfectly captures Annabeth’s intelligence and strength, qualities central to the character as the daughter of Athena. Many viewers especially enjoyed the close and believable friendship between the show’s young stars. The series debuted with impressive viewership numbers and has successfully started a new franchise.

‘High Fidelity’ (2020)

Zoë Kravitz plays the main character, Rob, in a fresh take on a well-known story, reimagined with a new gender and racial perspective. The show centers around a record store owner who reflects on her past loves through music, and often speaks directly to the audience. It was celebrated for its stylish look and Kravitz’s believable performance. Reviewers appreciated how this version updated the story for a modern audience, focusing on the dangers of intense infatuation. Though it didn’t last long, the show quickly gained a dedicated fanbase who loved its music and unique visual style.

‘Nancy Drew’ (2019–2023)

Tunji Kasim stars as Ned Nickerson, a talented former football player and mechanic who helps solve mysteries. The show reimagines familiar characters with fresh origins and adds a supernatural twist. His connection with Nancy is strained by hidden truths and the unsettling history of their town. Featuring a diverse group of actors, the series offered unique viewpoints within the horror and mystery genres. By modernizing the original stories for a CW audience, the show enjoyed a four-season run.

‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021–Present)

As a huge fantasy fan, I’ve been really impressed with the casting in this show. They’ve done a fantastic job bringing a truly diverse world to life, with actors like Madeleine Madden and Marcus Rutherford. Egwene and Perrin, in particular, feel like the emotional core of the group, and you really feel their strength as they face what feels like the end of the world. The way they’ve visualized the world is amazing – it feels like a place built on the remnants of a lost civilization, a real mix of cultures. And honestly, the performances are spot-on; the actors really get these characters, who are so beloved by book fans. It’s quickly become one of the biggest fantasy dramas out there, and it’s getting a ton of attention worldwide, which it absolutely deserves!

‘Foundation’ (2021–Present)

Leah Harvey portrays Salvor Hardin, a protector of Terminus who has a special link to what’s to come. The character has been updated for the series, changing from a male political figure in the original books to a strong, female action hero. Her story adds exciting physical action to the show, complementing the more strategic political plots. Critics have praised the show’s high-quality visuals and acting. These changes help make the complex story easier to follow and focus more on the characters.

‘The Equalizer’ (2021–Present)

Queen Latifah stars as Robyn McCall, a skilled former agent who now dedicates her talents to helping people in need. The show is a modern take on the classic premise, focusing on a working mom who juggles fighting crime with raising a teenage child. Latifah’s captivating presence drives the show’s compelling cases and attracts a large viewership each week, consistently making it one of the most popular dramas on television. This updated version demonstrates that the show’s central idea resonates with audiences regardless of the lead character’s gender or ethnicity.

‘Station Eleven’ (2021–2022)

Himesh Patel stars as Jeevan Chaudhary, guiding viewers through the frightening early days of a societal breakdown while protecting a young girl named Kirsten. He essentially experiences the chaos and fear alongside the audience. The connection between Jeevan and Kirsten is the heart of the story, providing its emotional core. Reviewers praised the show’s stunning visuals and its surprisingly optimistic outlook, even during such a catastrophic event. Patel’s performance was particularly noted for being genuine and deeply human.

‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ (2017–2019)

K. Todd Freeman’s portrayal of Mr. Poe is a kind but bumbling manager of the Baudelaire children’s affairs. His comedic delivery heightens the darkly humorous tone of the series. The show’s stage-like presentation allows for a wide range of interesting actors to play unusual characters. Viewers appreciated how his cluelessness matched the character’s depiction in the original books. Overall, the series is considered a clever and respectful adaptation of the source material.

‘Roswell, New Mexico’ (2019–2022)

Jeanine Mason plays Liz Ortecho in a new version of the show, bringing the character’s Latin heritage – which was present in the original books – to the forefront. The series uses its science fiction story about aliens to discuss important topics like immigration and what it means to feel like you belong. The connection between Liz and the alien Max Evans is at the heart of the show’s romantic storyline. By combining sci-fi mystery with social issues, the series has gained a dedicated following. Importantly, this adaptation fixes the problem of the previous show, which didn’t accurately represent the characters’ backgrounds.

‘Charmed’ (2018–2022)

This new version of the show focuses on the Vera sisters, Afro-Latina witches learning about their family history. It blends their culture into the magic system and spells. This allowed the show to explore the bonds of sisterhood through a fresh, cultural lens. Over four seasons, the series developed its own unique feel, different from the original, and viewers especially enjoyed the diverse representation and updated take on the classic ‘Power of Three’ concept.

‘American Gods’ (2017–2021)

As a film buff, I was really captivated by Ricky Whittle’s portrayal of Shadow Moon. He plays this guy stuck right in the middle of a clash between ancient gods and modern technology, and it’s fascinating. The showrunners made a smart choice in casting Whittle – it really brings the character’s racial background to life and lets them explore what it means to be Black in America. Watching Shadow’s journey is like a real self-discovery process, as he meets gods from all sorts of different cultures and mythologies. And visually, the show is stunning! The style perfectly matches Whittle’s strong, understated performance. Everyone’s been raving about how visually inventive and rich in mythology the series is, and I totally agree.

‘Lupin’ (2021–Present)

Omar Sy plays Assane Diop, a character heavily inspired by the famous thief Arsène Lupin. Though not a remake with a different actor, Assane embodies Lupin’s spirit and sophisticated style as a master burglar. The show quickly became a global success, captivating audiences with its intricate robberies and Omar Sy’s charismatic performance. Set in modern Paris, it offers thrilling entertainment while also touching on themes of social class and race. It continues to be one of the most popular series from outside the English-speaking world on streaming platforms.

‘Twisted Metal’ (2023–Present)

Anthony Mackie stars as John Doe, a fast-talking delivery driver with amnesia, navigating a dangerous, post-apocalyptic world. Originally a simple video game character, John Doe is brought to life by Mackie as a likable and humorous hero. The funny back-and-forth between his character and the villainous Sweet Tooth is a major highlight of the show. The series unexpectedly became popular thanks to its combination of action-packed car fights and witty, character-focused comedy. Audiences loved the energy and humor Mackie brought to this chaotic setting.

‘Halo’ (2022–2024)

Danny Sapani portrays Captain Jacob Keyes as a strong military leader and a fatherly figure. The show updates the Keyes family to reflect a more diverse background and gives them a significant role in the war against the Covenant. Sapani’s commanding performance adds realism to the show’s military elements. The series also delves deeper into Keyes’s past and his connection with the Spartan soldiers. This interpretation of the character brings more emotional depth to the political side of the conflict within the UNSC.

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ (2022–Present)

Sophia Nomvete plays Princess Disa, the first female Dwarf in a big-screen Tolkien story. She brings a lively, funny, and beautifully voiced character to the underground world of Khazad-dûm. The show uses her connections with Durin and Elrond to reveal the rich culture of the Dwarves. Viewers quickly connected with Nomvete’s charming performance and the new layers she brought to Dwarven life, making her a standout addition to the world of Middle-earth.

‘Wednesday’ (2022–Present)

Joy Sunday shines as Bianca Barclay, a popular and initially competitive student who adds a new dimension to the world of the Addams Family. While first presented as an adversary to Wednesday, her character develops into someone who earns Wednesday’s respect and eventually becomes an ally. Critics and fans alike praised Sunday’s portrayal for its sophistication and how she brought depth to a familiar high school character. Bianca quickly became a beloved character, contributing to the show’s widespread popularity.

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

Dominique Tipper delivers a compelling performance as Naomi Nagata, a highly skilled Belter engineer haunted by a complicated history of activism. The series accurately depicts Belters as a unique, multi-ethnic culture with roots in various Earth populations. Tipper’s work grounds the moral compass of the Rocinante’s crew as they navigate galactic conflicts. Both viewers and critics widely praise the show as a standout achievement in contemporary science fiction, and her character is key to exploring the show’s themes of belonging and found family.

Which of these reimagined characters is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

2026-01-04 06:20