Crossover events bring together characters from different series into one unified storyline, giving fans a chance to see their favorite characters from different worlds interact. Crossover events are more than just novelty; they’re a way to explore new narratives, deepen character relationships, and expand the universes fans love. From superhero showdowns to medical dramas, here’s a breakdown of some of the most memorable crossovers in television history.
1. The Arrowverse Crossovers (CW Network)
The CW Network’s Arrowverse has become synonymous with epic crossover events. Starting with Arrow and The Flash, the universe soon expanded to include Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, Batwoman, and Black Lightning. Here are some of the most notable Arrowverse crossovers:
- “Flash vs. Arrow” (2014): The first major crossover in the Arrowverse saw Barry Allen (The Flash) and Oliver Queen (Arrow) team up to fight metahuman villains. This event highlighted the contrast between Barry’s lighthearted optimism and Oliver’s darker, grittier outlook.
- “Crisis on Earth-X” (2017): One of the largest crossovers in the Arrowverse, this four-part event involved a wedding gone wrong when villains from a parallel Earth (Earth-X) crashed the event. Featuring nearly every major hero, this crossover balanced intense action with moments of humor and romance.
- “Elseworlds” (2018): In this storyline, reality is altered when Dr. John Deegan rewrites the fabric of the universe, causing Barry and Oliver to switch identities. This crossover even introduced Superman and Lois Lane, paving the way for the Superman & Lois series.
- “Crisis on Infinite Earths” (2019-2020): Perhaps the most ambitious crossover event in Arrowverse history, this five-part storyline adapted DC’s iconic “Crisis on Infinite Earths” comic storyline. The event saw the merging of multiple Earths, the introduction of characters from outside the Arrowverse (like characters from Smallville and Lucifer), and the tragic death of Oliver Queen.
2. Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19
ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 have frequently crossed over since Station 19, a firefighter-centered spinoff, was introduced in 2018. Both shows are set in Seattle and follow life-or-death situations, making the crossover of medical and firefighting teams a natural fit.
- “I Know This Bar” (2020): This crossover begins in Station 19 when a bar collapses and ends in Grey’s Anatomy, where doctors at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital scramble to save lives. These crossovers highlight the high-stakes challenges each team faces, from dealing with traumatic injuries to confronting emotional dilemmas.
- “All Tomorrow’s Parties” (2020): Tackling real-world issues, this two-part crossover addressed the COVID-19 pandemic, with firefighters and doctors working on the frontlines. These events emphasize the characters’ dedication and resilience, making both series feel interconnected and relevant to current events.
3. The X-Files and COPS
In 2000, The X-Files took a unique approach to a crossover by blending its usual supernatural mystery format with the reality show style of COPS. The episode, titled “X-COPS,” features Mulder and Scully investigating a creature that takes on the form of people’s worst fears. Presented in the handheld, unscripted style of COPS, this episode is a standout for its creative storytelling and format shift.
4. Law & Order Crossovers
The Law & Order franchise has been no stranger to crossovers, with various spin-offs like SVU, Criminal Intent, and Organized Crime sharing cases and characters. These crossovers add to the franchise’s sprawling narrative and showcase the vastness of the New York City justice system.
- SVU and Chicago P.D.: One of the most memorable Law & Order crossovers involved Chicago P.D., where the SVU team collaborates with Chicago detectives. These events often tackle tough topics, from complex crime syndicates to human trafficking, allowing for character interactions that broaden the appeal of both franchises.
- “Law & Order: Organized Crime” and “SVU”: Organized Crime, a recent spin-off, regularly crosses over with SVU, particularly as Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson’s relationship evolves. Their reunions have excited fans, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling.
5. Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel
When Angel, a spin-off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, premiered in 1999, fans were treated to several crossovers between the two shows. These interactions added depth to both series, exploring the ongoing bond between Buffy and Angel.
- “I Will Remember You”: In this heart-wrenching crossover episode, Buffy and Angel share a brief, blissful reunion, only for Angel to make a devastating sacrifice. Their ongoing saga brought added emotional layers to both shows, showcasing the painful realities of their supernatural lives.
6. The Simpsons and The X-Files
In the Simpsons episode titled “The Springfield Files,” Mulder and Scully from The X-Files come to Springfield to investigate an alleged alien sighting. This crossover combines The Simpsons’ signature humor with The X-Files’ mystery, resulting in a unique and memorable blend of genres that delighted fans of both shows.
7. Friends and Mad About You
In the ‘90s, Friends and Mad About You existed in the same television universe, sharing crossover moments that connected the characters. For instance, Ursula Buffay (Phoebe’s twin sister, played by Lisa Kudrow) appears in both shows, creating a fun link between the two iconic sitcoms. These subtle connections made for enjoyable “blink and you’ll miss it” moments that rewarded loyal fans.
8. NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles
CBS’s NCIS franchise has consistently used crossovers to keep fans engaged across its multiple spin-offs, particularly with NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans. These crossovers typically involve shared cases or missions that require collaboration between teams, often showcasing their contrasting personalities and investigative techniques.
9. Power and Power Book II: Ghost
50 Cent’s Power series has led to a spinoff universe, with Power Book II: Ghost and Power Book III: Raising Kanan bringing familiar characters into new storylines. These spinoffs explore the original characters’ legacies and relationships, with each crossover expanding the gritty world of crime, loyalty, and betrayal that Power established.
10. Supernatural and Scooby-Doo (“Scoobynatural”)
In one of the most unique crossovers on TV, Supernatural joined forces with Scooby-Doo in the episode “Scoobynatural.” Sam and Dean Winchester find themselves animated and teaming up with the Scooby gang to solve a mystery. This crossover is a fun, nostalgic trip for fans of both franchises, blending horror, humor, and adventure in a way only Supernatural could pull off.