10 Shows and Movies Similar to Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990)

Description: Created as a spin-off of Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place shares the same DNA of dramatic storytelling but focuses on young adults rather than teenagers. Both shows feature interconnected relationships, intense personal conflicts, and a glamorous Southern California setting.

Fact: Heather Locklear's character, Amanda Woodward, was initially intended to be a short-term role but became the show's breakout star. The show was known for its over-the-top plot twists, including amnesia, secret twins, and murder mysteries. It inspired a 2009 revival that lasted one season.

Description: Dawson's Creek shares with Beverly Hills, 90210 a focus on the emotional lives of teenagers, with an emphasis on relationships, self-discovery, and the transition to adulthood. Both shows feature a core group of friends navigating love and life in a picturesque setting (Capeside for Dawson's Creek, Beverly Hills for 90210).

Fact: The show launched the careers of James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, and Michelle Williams. Its dialogue was known for being unusually sophisticated for teen characters. The series finale featured a time jump that showed the characters' futures.

Description: The O.C. shares Beverly Hills, 90210's focus on affluent teenagers dealing with personal and social issues in a sun-soaked, wealthy community. Both series blend drama, romance, and family dynamics, often set against the backdrop of luxurious lifestyles. The outsider protagonist (Ryan Atwood in The O.C., similar to Brandon Walsh in 90210) adds a relatable perspective.

Fact: The show's creator, Josh Schwartz, was only 26 when The O.C. premiered. The theme song 'California' by Phantom Planet became a cultural phenomenon. The O.C. is credited with reviving the teen drama genre in the early 2000s.

Description: One Tree Hill mirrors Beverly Hills, 90210 in its exploration of teenage life, focusing on friendships, rivalries, and romances in a small-town setting. Both shows feature a mix of sports, music, and personal growth, with a strong emphasis on character development over multiple seasons.

Fact: The show was initially centered around basketball but expanded its focus over time. Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush, who played on-screen couple Lucas and Peyton, were married in real life for a short time. The series continued for nine seasons, following the characters from high school into adulthood.

Description: Like Beverly Hills, 90210, Gossip Girl revolves around the lives of wealthy teenagers navigating love, friendship, and social hierarchies in an elite setting. Both shows emphasize drama, romance, and the challenges of growing up in a privileged environment. The focus on high school and later college life, along with the glamorous portrayal of youth, makes them similar.

Fact: Gossip Girl was based on the book series by Cecily von Ziegesar. The show's iconic voiceover was provided by Kristen Bell, who remained uncredited until the series finale. It popularized the term 'Upper East Side' and brought Manhattan's elite culture into mainstream media.

Description: As a direct spin-off of Beverly Hills, 90210, this series shares the same setting and many thematic elements, including the lives of wealthy teens in Beverly Hills. It updates the original's formula for a new generation, maintaining the focus on drama, romance, and the challenges of adolescence in a privileged world.

Fact: The show brought back several original 90210 cast members for guest appearances. It was part of The CW's attempt to revive classic teen dramas. The series ran for five seasons, ending in

Description: While The Vampire Diaries introduces supernatural elements, it shares with Beverly Hills, 90210 a focus on teenage romance, friendship, and the struggles of growing up. Both shows feature love triangles, intense emotional drama, and a small-town setting where everyone knows each other's business.

Fact: The show was based on the book series by L.J. Smith. It spawned two successful spin-offs: The Originals and Legacies. Nina Dobrev, who played Elena Gilbert, also portrayed her ancestor Katherine Pierce.

Description: Pretty Little Liars shares with Beverly Hills, 90210 a focus on a tight-knit group of friends navigating the complexities of adolescence, but adds a suspenseful mystery element. Both shows explore themes of identity, loyalty, and the secrets that bind people together.

Fact: The show was based on the book series by Sara Shepard. It was originally intended to be a 10-episode miniseries but was expanded due to its popularity. The identity of 'A' was one of the most talked-about mysteries in television during the show's run.

Description: Riverdale takes the teen drama formula of Beverly Hills, 90210 and adds a darker, more mysterious twist. Both shows center on high school students dealing with love, friendship, and personal struggles, but Riverdale incorporates elements of crime and the supernatural, creating a more intense narrative.

Fact: The show is based on the Archie Comics characters but presents a much darker version of their stories. It features a musical episode in each season. The series has spawned several spin-offs, including Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.

Description: Euphoria updates the teen drama genre for a modern audience, much like Beverly Hills, 90210 did in its time. Both shows explore the lives of high school students dealing with love, identity, and personal challenges, though Euphoria takes a much darker and more explicit approach to these themes.

Fact: The show is based on an Israeli series of the same name. Zendaya won an Emmy for her performance in the lead role, making her the youngest winner in the drama category. The series is known for its striking visual style and use of music.