7 Original TV Stars Who Returned In The Remakes

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Television has given us some unforgettable characters. Because TV shows unfold over many episodes and seasons, they can tell stories in a way that combines detailed development with a manageable pace. This allows for rich character growth over time, and some TV characters have become cultural icons. Often, the actors who play these beloved characters also become well-known stars long after the show has ended.

Recently, many popular TV shows from the past have been revived. Networks are hoping to attract both original fans – by reminding them of what they loved – and new viewers with updated versions. These reboots often include references to the original series, and sometimes even bring back actors from the past for brief appearances that fans will appreciate.

7) Will Smith in Bel-Air

Will Smith is now a world-famous movie star, but he first became well-known as the lead actor in the popular TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He played a character inspired by his own life, showcasing his talent and contributing to the show’s huge popularity. A recent reimagining of the series, Bel-Air, offered a more serious take on the story, and Will Smith made a surprise appearance in the final episode.

6) Ricky Gervais in The Office

While the American version of The Office eventually became much more popular than the original British series, it still acknowledged its origins. Ricky Gervais, who created and starred in the British Office, made a guest appearance on the US show, playing his famous character David Brent. This allowed for a fun meeting between Brent and the US version’s Michael Scott, and it was a clever way to honor the show’s beginnings for longtime fans.

5) Pamela Anderson & David Hasselhoff in Baywatch

Even years after it went off the air, David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson are still strongly associated with their roles on Baywatch. They both starred in the show for many seasons, and when a Baywatch movie was made in 2017, they both made brief appearances. Hasselhoff played a mentor to the new Mitch Buchannon, while Anderson had a cameo in the final scene, referencing her original character and hinting at a possible sequel – though one doesn’t seem to be planned.

4) Johnny Depp in 21 Jump Street

The Jump Street movies that came out in the 2010s were among the funniest films of the decade, brilliantly reimagining the basic idea of the original police show. The original series helped launch Johnny Depp’s career, so his appearance in the rebooted films was a real treat for fans. His cameo not only provided a fun nod to the past but also playfully acknowledged the somewhat silly concept behind 21 Jump Street.

3) Lynda Carter in Wonder Woman 1984

Lynda Carter is the most recognizable live-action Wonder Woman, thanks to her role in the original TV series that ran from 1975 to 1979. Her portrayal was incredibly influential in shaping how we see superheroes today. She later revisited the character with a cameo in the 2020 film Wonder Woman 1984, appearing alongside Gal Gadot.

2) Richard Hatch in Battlestar Galactica

The sci-fi series Battlestar Galactica, often praised as a classic, was actually a remake of a much older show. Interestingly, Richard Hatch, the star of the original series, also appeared in the reboot that aired in the early 2000s. He didn’t just make a brief appearance, though – he was a recurring guest star, appearing in 22 episodes over four seasons. While the new version quickly became more popular, Hatch’s involvement was a respectful tribute to the original Battlestar Galactica.

1) Lou Ferrigno in The Incredible Hulk

Lou Ferrigno is best known for playing the Incredible Hulk in the popular TV series that aired from 1977 to 1982. He physically portrayed the Hulk whenever the character transformed from Bruce Banner. Years later, when the Hulk story was reimagined as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2008, Ferrigno made a special appearance as a security guard – a nod to his iconic role in the original TV show.

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2025-12-11 20:15