The character of Angel (played by David Boreanaz) was one of the most popular characters on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It is little wonder then that back in 1999, at the peak of Buffy’s popularity, creator Joss Whedon would create a spin-off based on him. Angel was the name of that spin-off.

Following the exploits of Angel, the vampire with a soul, the show got off to a rocky start with fans and critics. Supporting characters from Buffy appeared and became regulars, though the cast would regularly swell and contract through the seasons. Most notably, Cordelia Chase (Charisma Carpenter), Wesley Wyndham-Pryce(Alexis Denisof) and Spike (James Marsters) became regulars after appearing in the original series.

The original plot involved Angel receiving messages from a higher power to “help the helpless”. Under the guise of a detective agency, the cast battled evil demons, vampires and other evil denizens each week. As the seasons progressed, however, the show became more dark and the ratings increased in the US.

By the end of the shows run, Angel was running a large metaphysical law firm that brokered deals between supernatural creatures while actively trying to save the world from a coming apocalypse.

After five seasons, the show came to a close in 2004 and was able to tie up most errant storylines.