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Summary
TheBuffy the Vampire Slayeruniverse has captivated audiences for decades with its compelling storytelling, dynamic characters, and supernatural intrigue. With the originalBuffyseries spanning seven seasons and its spinoffAngelrunning for five, fans new to the franchise often find themselves asking the same question: Which series should I watch first? While the answer may seem straightforward at first glance, the timeline of the two shows creates a unique viewing experience that can be approached in multiple ways.
At its core,Buffylaid the foundationfor the world and characters thatAngellater expanded upon. However, sinceAngelbegan airing alongsideBuffySeason 4, the best way to experience the entire story as intended is by following an alternating episode order. This method ensures that crossover episodes and interwoven storylines make the most sense. Here’s a breakdown of whyBuffyshould be watched first and how to proceed onceAngelenters the picture.
Start With Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Thebest way to enter the Buffyverseis by watchingBuffy the Vampire Slayerfrom the beginning. The show, created by Joss Whedon, originally aired in 1997 and ran for seven seasons, introducing viewers to the titular heroine, Buffy Summers. As the Slayer, Buffy is chosen to battle supernatural forces, including vampires, demons, and other dark creatures. Alongside her friends, the Scooby Gang, she navigates high school, relationships, and life-or-death battles against the forces of darkness.
WatchingBuffyfirst is crucial because it establishes the lore, character dynamics, and overarching themes that will carry over intoAngel. Most importantly, it allows viewers to witness Angel’s development before his departure from Sunnydale at theend ofBuffySeason 3. The brooding vampire with a soul played a significant role in the first three seasons ofBuffy, making his spinoff more rewarding for those who have followed his journey up to that point.
For an optimal viewing experience, fans shouldwatchBuffySeasons 1-3in their entirety before diving intoAngel. This will provide full context for Angel’s character arc, as well as significant moments that shape the mythology of the Buffyverse.
Buffy Season 4 and Angel Season 1: Watching in Broadcast Order
Once you reachBuffySeason 4, the story branches off into two separate but interconnected series.Angelpremiered in 1999, airing on The WB alongsideBuffySeason 4. While both shows function as standalone narratives, they feature numerous crossover episodes that enhance the viewing experience when watched in tandem.
From this point on, the best way to experience both shows is by alternating between episodes in their original broadcast order. This means watching an episode ofBuffy,then an episode ofAngel, and so on. This method maintains the natural progression of events and allows for seamless transitions between crossover moments. Some key crossovers include:
Following this pattern continuesthroughBuffySeason 7andAngelSeason 4, as characters and plotlines occasionally intersect. This approach ensures that you experience the full impact of these moments rather than being spoiled by events that were meant to unfold concurrently.
Should You Watch Angel After Buffy?
SinceBuffy the Vampire Slayerconcludes with its seventh season, many fans wonder whether they should continue withAngelafterward or watch both finales simultaneously. WhileBuffyreaches its epic conclusion in Season 7,Angelextends beyond thatwith its own independent narrative in Season 5.
WhileBuffyreaches its epic conclusion in Season 7,Angelextends beyond thatwith its own independent narrative in Season 5.
If you’ve been alternating betweenBuffyandAngelepisodes, you’ll finish bothBuffySeason 7 andAngelSeason 4 at roughly the same time. At this point, you have a choice: dive straight intoAngelSeason 5 or take a break before continuing. SinceAngelSeason 5 is self-contained and largely deals with the aftermath ofBuffy, it works well as a final chapter to the Buffyverse.
Ultimately, the choice is up to the viewer, but watchingAngelafterBuffyoffers a rewarding epilogue, especially since some keyBuffycharacters make appearances inAngel’s final season.
For the best experience, follow this order:
By following this approach, you’ll get the most complete, immersive, and rewarding experience from both series. WatchingBuffyfirst lays the foundation, and alternating from Season 4 onward maintains continuity while preserving the dramatic weight of key crossover moments.
So,should you watchBuffyorAngelfirst? The answer is clear: Start withBuffy the Vampire Slayer, then integrateAngelas you progress. Doing so will ensure you experience the Buffyverse in the most satisfying way possible, just as it was originally aired.
