5 similarities between Suits and Suits LA we noticed after the spin-off’s premiere

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As a spin-off of Suits, Suits LA is taking forward the legacy set by Harvey Specter and Mike Ross. The legal drama premiered on NBC on February 23, 2025, and has generated immense buzz despite receiving mixed reviews.

The show tells the story of Ted Black, a partner at a Los Angeles-based law firm, who has to navigate an unprecedented challenge while trying to merge his company with another firm.

Though the new series follows a different set of characters, we did notice some similarities between the two shows while watching the pilot episode.

The spin-off does not only have a similar tone and setting as its predecessor but also reminds the viewers of some iconic character dynamics from the original. Here is everything in Suits LA premiere that reminded us of Suits.

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Suits and Suits LA: Similarities between the two shows

1) The setting of a cut-throat legal office

Like Suits, most of the action in Suits LA takes place at a law firm, which brings back the memories of Pearson Hardman, aka Pearson Specter Litt. The office features various attorneys and paralegals, all trying to one-up each other.

The high-pressure situation, the glass-studded buildings, and the constant fight to poach clients seen in the premiere are a reminiscence of Suits. Additionally, the color grading and visuals also look similar to the original series, signifying that the two are set in the same universe.

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2) A witty and charming protagonist

Ted Black gives out Harvey Specter vibes in the first episode. With his quick-witted replies, one-liners, and charming personality, Ted seems to be the perfect protagonist who would remind the audience of Harvey, while bringing his own energy to the show.

While he is betrayed in the pilot, Ted still knows how to convince people to side with him, and how to use circumstances to his advantage. Harvey is known to be a master at all these things. As the show’s trailer depicts, Ted agrees that both he and Harvey are cocky individuals who know how to play the legal game.

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3) The main characters are hiding secrets

The story of Suits begins with Mike Ross getting hired by Harvey Specter despite not having a law degree. The two then have to keep this secret from the rest of the firm. In Suits LA episode 1, we see both Ted Black and Stuart Lane hiding some dark secrets and blackmailing each other.

Like the original, secrets play a major role in the storyline as Stuart is able to betray Ted and throw him out of the merger. He is confident that Ted can not go against him as he has some dirt on him. By the end of the episode, Ted affirms that if Stuart comes after him, he too will expose his past.

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4) Roslyn seems to be inspired by Donna

Donna is one of the most fascinating characters in Suits, who became a fan-favorite with her confident and witty personality and her loyalty to her boss, Harvey. Despite being a secretary, she is not afraid to call out Harvey whenever he is wrong.

In Suits LA episode 1, we are introduced to Roslyn, who has a similar kind of relationship dynamic with Ted. As Ted’s secretary, she knows how to manage his professional and personal matters, and is also aware of his family issues.

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5) The protagonists and their troubled family history

In the original USA Network series, Harvey has a problematic childhood as his mother had an affair. Meanwhile, his brother struggles with gambling addiction. His troubled family history gives him life-long trauma.

In the Suits LA premiere, Ted Black’s dark past with his family comes to the forefront. His father is a convicted criminal, who is somehow also responsible for his brother, Eddie’s death. Ted suffers through trauma due to his challenging past and sees Eddie’s visions even though he has died.

Despite the similarities, Suits LA might be able to carve its niche among the audience as the show moves forward. The series airs new episodes on NBC on Sundays.