When news broke that _Suits_ —the beloved legal drama that captivated audiences for nine seasons—was getting a spinoff titled _Suits LA_ , fans were understandably intrigued. After all, _Suits_ had left an indelible mark on television with its sharp dialogue, complex characters, and high-stakes courtroom drama. However, as details about _Suits LA_ began to emerge, excitement quickly gave way to skepticism. Now that the show has premiered, it’s clear that this spinoff is less of a worthy successor and more of a cheap imitation—a dollar-store knockoff of the original series. In this brutally honest review, we’ll dissect why _Suits LA_ fails to live up to its predecessor and why it might just be the spinoff nobody asked for.
### **What Made It Special?**
To understand why _Suits LA_ falls flat, it’s important to revisit what made _Suits_ such a cultural phenomenon. At its core, _Suits_ wasn’t just another legal drama—it was a masterclass in storytelling. The show thrived on its intricate character dynamics, particularly the magnetic relationship between Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) and Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams). Their mentor-protégé dynamic, layered with wit, tension, and occasional vulnerability, kept viewers hooked week after week.
Beyond its characters, _Suits_ excelled in crafting compelling narratives. Each episode balanced high-stakes legal battles with personal drama, creating a perfect blend of intellect and emotion. The writing was sharp, the pacing relentless, and the stakes always felt real. Even when the plot veered into melodrama, the show’s charm and charisma carried it through.
Moreover, _Suits_ introduced audiences to a glamorous yet gritty world of corporate law, complete with designer suits, sleek offices, and morally ambiguous decisions. It was escapism at its finest—a fantasy where intelligence and ambition reigned supreme. For many fans, the idea of a spinoff promised more of the same magic. Unfortunately, _Suits LA_ delivers anything but.
### **The Premise of ‘Suits LA’: A Formulaic Misstep**
On paper, _Suits LA_ seems like a logical extension of the original series. Set in Los Angeles instead of New York, the show follows a new team of lawyers navigating the cutthroat world of entertainment law. While the change in setting offers potential for fresh storylines, the execution leaves much to be desired.
From the very first episode, it’s clear that _Suits LA_ lacks the polish and sophistication that defined its predecessor. The characters feel like hollow imitations of their New York counterparts. Gone are the nuanced personalities and layered relationships; instead, we’re presented with caricatures who spout clichés rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue. The protagonist—a supposed rival to Harvey Specter—is neither charismatic nor compelling, leaving viewers struggling to care about their journey.
Even worse, the writing feels lazy and uninspired. Where _Suits_ thrived on clever banter and intellectual sparring, _Suits LA_ relies on tired tropes and predictable plot twists. Legal cases that should serve as the backbone of the series are resolved with little thought or creativity, undermining any sense of tension or investment. It’s as if the creators assumed the _Suits_ brand alone would carry the show, neglecting the substance that made the original so beloved.
### **Style Without Depth**
One of the most glaring issues with _Suits LA_ is its reliance on surface-level aesthetics over genuine storytelling. The show clearly tries to replicate the glossy, aspirational vibe of _Suits_ , complete with luxurious office spaces, impeccably tailored outfits, and sweeping shots of Los Angeles. But while these elements added depth and authenticity to the original series, here they feel superficial and hollow.
For example, the fashion choices in _Suits LA_ seem designed solely to mimic the style of _Suits_ without understanding its purpose. In the original series, clothing was an extension of character development—Harvey’s impeccably tailored suits reflected his confidence and authority, while Mike’s more casual attire highlighted his outsider status. In contrast, _Suits LA_ uses wardrobe as a gimmick, failing to connect it meaningfully to the characters or their arcs.
Similarly, the Los Angeles setting—a city synonymous with glamour and excess—is wasted in this spinoff. Instead of exploring how the unique challenges of entertainment law shape the characters and their decisions, the show reduces the location to a backdrop. There’s no sense of place, no exploration of how LA’s culture influences the narrative. As a result, the setting feels incidental rather than integral to the story.
### **A Resounding Disappointment**
Unsurprisingly, fan reactions to _Suits LA_ have been overwhelmingly negative. Social media platforms are flooded with criticism from longtime _Suits_ enthusiasts who feel betrayed by the spinoff. Many argue that _Suits LA_ doesn’t honor the legacy of the original series, instead capitalizing on its name recognition without delivering quality content.
Some fans point out that the absence of familiar faces exacerbates the disconnect. While spinoffs often introduce new characters, successful ones maintain ties to the original series through cameos or callbacks. _Suits LA_ , however, makes no effort to bridge the gap between old and new. This lack of continuity alienates loyal viewers, making the spinoff feel like a cash grab rather than a labor of love.
Others express frustration with the show’s inability to innovate. Rather than carving out its own identity, _Suits LA_ desperately tries to emulate _Suits_ , resulting in a pale imitation that lacks originality. Fans crave fresh perspectives and bold storytelling—not recycled formulas—and _Suits LA_ fails to deliver on both counts.
### **What Went Wrong?**
So, why did _Suits LA_ miss the mark so spectacularly? Several factors contribute to its failure:
#### **Overreliance on Brand Recognition**
The creators likely assumed that the _Suits_ name would guarantee success, neglecting the importance of strong writing and character development. Without these foundational elements, even the most iconic brands can falter.
#### **Lack of Vision**
Successful spinoffs require a clear vision that distinguishes them from the original while honoring its spirit. _Suits LA_ lacks this clarity, stumbling aimlessly without a cohesive direction.
#### **Underestimating the Audience**
Modern viewers are discerning and demand authenticity. By prioritizing style over substance, _Suits LA_ insults the intelligence of its audience, assuming they’ll settle for mediocrity because of nostalgia.
#### **Poor Timing**
With countless streaming services producing high-quality content, competition is fiercer than ever. To stand out, a show needs to offer something truly special. _Suits LA_ arrives late to the party, bringing nothing new to the table.
### **Could ‘Suits LA’ Be Redeemed?**
While the odds seem stacked against it, there’s still a slim chance _Suits LA_ could turn things around—if the creators are willing to make significant changes. Introducing stronger character arcs, investing in smarter writing, and leveraging the unique aspects of LA’s legal scene could help salvage the show. Bringing back beloved characters from _Suits_ for guest appearances might also reignite interest among disillusioned fans.
That said, redemption will require more than minor tweaks. The show needs a complete overhaul, starting with a renewed commitment to quality storytelling. Whether the creators have the courage—or the budget—to attempt this remains to be seen.
### **A Missed Opportunity**
In the end, _Suits LA_ serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of resting on laurels. Instead of building on the strengths of _Suits_ , the spinoff squanders its potential, offering a shallow and uninspired imitation that disappoints on nearly every level. For fans of the original series, it’s a painful reminder of what could have been.
As audiences continue to seek out intelligent, well-crafted dramas, _Suits LA_ stands as proof that not every story needs a sequel—or a spinoff. Sometimes, it’s better to let a beloved series remain untouched, preserving its legacy rather than tarnishing it with subpar follow-ups.