Television audiences are witnessing a growing trend of prequel series exploring the backstories of well-known characters and established worlds across a variety of genres. Recent developments in the medium highlight a mix of critically acclaimed projects and high-profile adaptations.

Topping the list is “Better Call Saul,” a Netflix series that revisits the “Breaking Bad” universe. The show centers on Bob Odenkirk’s portrayal of Saul Goodman, chronicling the character’s transformation from a small-time con artist to a morally compromised lawyer operating in Albuquerque. Praised for its nuanced storytelling and patient pacing, the series has often been regarded as surpassing its predecessor in quality.

HBO Max’s “House of the Dragon” serves as a prequel to “Game of Thrones,” set nearly 172 years earlier during the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. The drama shifts focus from spectacular dragon battles to political intrigue and complex power struggles among the realm’s nobility. Key cast members include Matt Smith, Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, and Paddy Considine.

Disney+ revived the psychological thriller genre with “Bates Motel,” a prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho.” The series delves into the troubled upbringing of Norman Bates, played by Freddie Highmore, alongside Vera Farmiga as his mother. Despite initial skepticism, the show earned acclaim for its slow-burn narrative and strong performances.

Prime Video’s “Fargo” revisited its critically lauded universe with a 1979-set season focusing on a Minnesota couple embroiled in regional crime, diverging from the series’ initial narrative while maintaining its dark, violent tone. The cast includes Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst, and Kieran Culkin.

Star Wars’ “Andor,” streaming on Disney+, explores the origins of Cassian Andor, a key figure from “Rogue One.” Departing from traditional franchise elements such as lightsaber combat, the series instead emphasizes rebellion against an oppressive regime, with Diego Luna in the lead role supported by a notable ensemble including Andy Serkis and Fiona Shaw.

Among newer entries, Paramount+ has commissioned “Laird,” a drama written by Jez Butterworth and his brother John-Henry. The story follows a Scottish laird resisting a wealthy American billionaire's attempts to acquire local lands, reflecting real-life tensions similar to those involving Donald Trump’s Aberdeenshire golf developments. Executive Jane Wiseman describes the series as a portrayal of one man standing against unchecked financial power.

In documentary and biographical content, Prime Video is producing a feature-length film on singer Lily Allen, directed by Mat Whitecross, chronicling her career from initial social media fame to critical acclaim. Additionally, Disney+ is developing a Julie Andrews documentary directed by RJ Cutler, promising an in-depth look at the beloved actress’s career, offering viewers a respite from the often somber tone of contemporary television.

Other notable prequel titles include ITVX’s “Endeavour,” which revisits the youth of Inspector Morse, and Paramount+’s “1923,” a western drama reuniting Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford to portray characters facing adversity on the Yellowstone ranch.

The expanding range of prequels demonstrates the industry’s interest in deepening audience engagement through complex narratives that provide context and nuance to familiar stories. While some projects serve as loyal extensions of their originals, others seek to reinterpret or challenge established archetypes, contributing to a dynamic landscape in television programming.