'Suits LA,' the much-anticipated spinoff from the original 'Suits' series, made its debut on NBC on Sunday, February 23. Leading up to its premiere, the show drew attention with its first score on Rotten Tomatoes, clocking in at just 36%, indicating mixed initial reception from television critics. This rating starkly contrasts with the original series, which holds an impressive average score of 91% on the same platform.
One of the more prominent voices highlighting the struggles 'Suits LA' faces has been TV Guide critic Lyvie Scott, who expressed concerns about the new series trying to reconcile lowered expectations of television with the ambitions it strives for. She noted, "Suits LA can't reconcile the new, lowered expectations of the TV medium with the show it wants to be, and this sabotages any genuine attempts to keep the franchise alive."
Critics have largely been quick to dismiss 'Suits LA' as unable to capture the essence of its predecessor. Guardian critic Adrian Horton shared similar sentiments, observing, "Like Frasier, How I Met Your Father and the Gossip Girl 2.0 before it, the new 'Suits' is an echo of the original..." Meanwhile, Consequence's Liz Shannon Miller emphasized the fundamental problems she sees within the new show, stating, "All of the problems with 'Suits LA' are rooted in the way the show diverges from the original."
Despite the gloomy outlook from established critics, there shines some positive feedback as well. Ricky Valero from FandomWire described the show as having "minor issues," admitting it could be considered "a worthy addition to the Suits universe." Similarly, Alan French from Sunshine State Cineplex acknowledged there is potential for improvement, claiming the show still holds some merit.
Created by Aaron Korsh, 'Suits LA' reintroduces audiences to the world of legal drama, this time with actor Stephen Amell portraying Ted Black, one of the main characters. Amell’s Ted Black is depicted as a prosecutor-turned-celebrity lawyer, reminiscent of the characteristic charm and boldness seen previously, yet this time amid the landscapes of Los Angeles.
The show brings back Gabriel Macht, who reprises his role as Harvey Specter, raising anticipation for loyal fans of the series. Lex Scott Davis, Josh McDermitt, and Bryan Greenberg are also included among the key cast members, with Davis’s character Erica Rollins portrayed as ambitious and determined.
Critics have noted the distinct shift from the world of the original series to the new one. While the offices of Pearson Hardman earned their reputation for sleek, attractive design, the new legal firm, Black Lane, has been described by some as lacking personality and allure. Critics argue this shift reflects the overall failings of the present iteration.
At its roots, 'Suits LA' offers similar dramatic tensions with plenty of intrigue, internal power struggles, and the same corporate chess game viewers have come to enjoy, albeit with mixed effectiveness. The show presents Ted struggling to assert his authority, dealing with the potential betrayal from his close friend and colleague Stuart Lane, played by McDermitt.
One notable feature of the pilot episode involves establishing Ted’s emotional struggle, including his complex backstory illustrated through flashbacks, highlighting elements of guilt and personal loss. Critics have pointed out how the emotional depth of these characters failed to resonate, limiting audience attachment.
While fans anticipated engaging character dynamics akin to those enjoyed with the original characters Mike and Harvey, the new connections have not yet struck the same chord. Amell's portrayal of Ted lacks much of the charisma fans hoped would emerge, making character interactions fall flat.
Despite the polarizing reviews, Korsh remains committed to building this next chapter of the 'Suits' universe, aiming to breathe fresh life back to the franchise. He has made it clear through engagement with fans and media outlets alike, the hope is to retain the vibrant charm, wit, and drama original audiences came to love.
Only time will tell if 'Suits LA' can find its footing and carve out its own identity separate from its highly regarded ancestor. It remains to be seen if the general audience response mirrors critic sentiment, especially after more viewers have experienced the spinoff post-premiere.
Regardless of its challenging start, the enduring popularity of the 'Suits' franchise has afforded 'Suits LA' the chance to flourish or falter based on the upcoming episodes. With weekly releases on Sundays, eager fans will be keeping close tabs on how the narrative continues to evolve— and whether this latest installment can rise to meet the legacy it inherits.