Buffy the Vampire Slayer is set to return with a revival that could greatly benefit from integrating elements and storylines from the acclaimed sequel comics. After seven remarkable seasons, the original series concluded on a poignant yet open-ended note, paving the way for extensive potential within the franchise. The subsequent comic adaptations introduced an array of new adventures for the Scoobies and their expanding network of allies, significantly amplifying their confrontations with various threats.
Adapting the intricate storylines from the comics into the revival may present challenges, yet certain characters and concepts are ripe for exploration. These elements not only have the potential to resolve plot lines that were left hanging in the original series but also to introduce fresh narratives that expand the Buffyverse. Just as franchises like Star Wars have drawn inspiration from their original expanded universe for renewed storytelling, here are ten compelling concepts from the Buffy comics to consider for the revival.
10 The Slayer Corp
An Army of Slayers: A Path for New Characters
At the heart of the early sequences in the Buffy sequel comics lies the fascinating concept of Buffy’s Slayer Corp. Following the series finale’s revelation where Buffy awakened countless potential Slayers, the comics expanded on this by portraying Buffy establishing a global force that trains new Slayers in the responsible wielding of their powers.
This narrative choice opens the door to a wealth of storytelling opportunities, featuring new characters like Buffy’s unexpected love interest, Satsu, as well as Nadira. It creates a broader organizational structure for the Scoobies, which could allow for the mention of unseen allies tied to the greater Slayer network, along with the introduction of rogue Slayers as potential villains, a recurring theme in the comics.
9 The Return of Dracula
Dracula: From Comedic Figure to Sinister Ally
Dracula made his debut in Season 5 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, initially serving as a light-hearted parody of traditional vampire tropes. However, his character evolved significantly in the Season 8 comics arc, “Wolves at the Gate,”where Dracula temporarily allies with Buffy and her friends against a faction of rogue vampires in Japan.
Initially portrayed by Rudolf Martin in the series, Dracula’s narrative arc deepens in the comics, where he retains his predatory nature while forming a complicated relationship with Xander, demonstrating his duality as an antagonist with occasional moments of camaraderie. Reintroducing Dracula in the revival could provide a compelling way to explore how both he and Buffy have changed over time.
8 Harmony the Vampire Influencer
Harmony: An Unexpected Threat in the Age of Celebrity
Initially depicted as a comical and ineffective antagonist in both Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, Harmony’s character undergoes a strategic transformation in the comics. She swiftly evolves into a formidable foe by leveraging modern celebrity culture after inadvertently revealing the existence of vampires to the public, transitioning into a reality TV star, and becoming the face of vampires globally.
This transformation alters public perception of the Slayers, complicating their mission and adding layers to Harmony’s role. The revival could redefine her influence, encapsulating her character’s journey as she navigates a new world where fame and power go hand-in-hand—and how this dynamic challenges Buffy.
7 Oz’s Werewolf Sanctuary
Although Oz departed from Sunnydale in Season 4, he made occasional appearances, including a significant role in his werewolf sanctuary during the comics’ “Retreat”storyline, illustrating his development and growth. He led a group of werewolves who learned to control their transformations, establishing a family with his partner, Bayarmaa, and raising a son named Kelden.
Seth Green has expressed interest in reprising this beloved character, making a return in the revival a possibility. Oz’s appearance would cater to fans’ lingering questions about his fate and also serve as a potential source of emotional reunions, particularly with Willow, given their shared history.
6 The Death of the Buffy Decoy
“The Chain”: A Strong Standalone Story
The concept of decoys to protect Buffy from her numerous enemies is effectively utilized in the comics, specifically introduced in Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 8. Two Slayers were trained as decoys to divert attention from Buffy, complimenting her importance on a global scale. One of these decoys would later be revealed to have appeared in Angel’s season 5 finale.
A similar storyline could serve as a powerful episode within the revival, exemplifying how Buffy’s legacy has influenced countless young women. The storyline centered on a Slayer who matures from an average student into a hero showcases the unknown bravery that Slayers embody—perfect for the revival’s exploration of identities and heroism.
5 A Slayer Becomes a Vampire
The Slaypire: A Unique Threat
Initially considered in Season 4, the notion of a Slayer turned vampire was revisited in the comics with the character Simone Doffler, introducing a unique antagonist who possessed both Slayer abilities and vampiric powers. As a Slaypire, Simone represents a formidable adversary for Buffy, showcasing the potential outcomes of a Slayer’s powers turning against her.
Incorporating a Slaypire into the revival could shape the narrative by forcing Buffy back into action, facilitating an intricate storyline about confronting past mistakes and evolving complexities within the Slayer line and vampire existence.
4 The Return (and Comeuppance) of D’Hoffryn
D’Hoffryn’s Legacy: A Survivor Among Villains
Most of Buffy’s antagonists faced their demise within the storyline, but D’Hoffryn stands out as one of the few escaped villains. This powerful vengeance demon played a pivotal role in Anya’s story, having granted her powers and later acted as her antagonist, showcasing a complex relationship with humanity and morality.
While he escaped punishment in the original series, in the comics, D’Hoffryn resurfaces as a significant threat. After elevating his status in the Buffy comics, he ultimately meets his end, presenting an opportunity for his return to the revival, whether as a formidable antagonist or an unlikely ally for characters like Willow.
3 The Introduction of Giles’ Magical Aunts
Magical Aunts: Wild Cards in the Buffyverse
The magical aunts of Rupert Giles, Lavinia and Sophronia, were initially crafted for the canceled spin-off, Ripper, but their addition to the comics provided delightful dynamics. Unlike their more serious great-nephew, these two embrace their immortal magical abilities with a zest for life. Their unique interactions would create an entertaining juxtaposition against the show’s darker themes.
Introducing the aunts in the revival could enrich the narrative, expanding on the magical dimensions present within the Buffy universe while providing refreshing interactions alongside characters like Willow and Giles, thus blending humor with deeper magical lore.
2 Angel and Faith: Further Team-Ups
The Continued Fight for Redemption
The sequel comics reveal Angel and Faith struggling with their complex moral choices, often finding themselves at distinct crossroads. Their partnership provides a lens through which the revival can explore themes of redemption and personal growth. The duo’s journey often highlights the blurred lines between good and evil, a core element of the Buffy narrative.
By featuring Angel and Faith working alongside or apart from Buffy, the revival could delve into their stories while allowing for a broader exploration of themes surrounding loyalty, betrayal, and the ongoing struggle for redemption. Additionally, it would set the stage for possible follow-up narratives centered around these beloved characters.
1 Buffy Finally Chooses: Angel or Spike
Concluding the Love Triangle with Maturity
The debate over Buffy’s ultimate romantic choice between Angel and Spike has long divided fans. In the revival, there is a significant opportunity to maturely address this love triangle and reach a satisfying resolution. Drawing from the comics, a potential narrative could have Buffy acknowledge her connections with both men, allowing them to evolve into a friendship devoid of unnecessary drama.
Buffy could navigate this relationship landscape while also hinting at future possibilities with Spike—drawing attention to her growth as a character and reflecting a more mature perspective in the upcoming revival of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.