How Does Freeridge Connect To On My Block?
Freeridge has several elements within it that call back to its predecessor show, On My Block. Surprisingly, On My Block references Freeridge as well.
Netflix’s Freeridge is the successor to the platform's other show On My Block, but how are the two shows connected? It can be a risky move to set a sequel story in the same universe as another, as networks can run the risk of the second show forever living in the shadow of the former. But, when done correctly, a sequel story can help the original shine all the brighter while further exploring the shared universe’s lore while introducing new characters that are just as unique and engaging as the first heroes who started the entire endeavor. This is what makes it so interesting to see how Netflix’s two shows connect.
On My Block originally ran for four seasons, eventually concluding in 2021. On My Block sends its cast of four teenagers in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Freeridge as they tried to survive high school and discover a hidden treasure, known as the Rollerworld money. Meanwhile, Freeridge follows a new crop of students beset with a cursed box and was first released in February of 2023, depicting their adventures as they navigate love, growing up, and the mystery of their curse.
Freeridge Is A Spinoff To The Original On My Block
Beyond being set in the same universe, Freeridge is a spinoff to On My Block, with both shows exploring a mystery in the increasingly fantastical neighborhood of Freeridge. As well as this, the creators of the spin-off show took care to leave behind several easter eggs connecting the two stories, creating plenty of connective tissue between the two shows. This allows season 1 of Freeridge to explore the supernatural, yet familiar universe, making it enticing to fans new and old.
Beyond Freeridge and On My Block taking place in the same narrative universe, there are also several specific details binding the two shows. The cast of Freeridge temporarily appears in the series finale of On My Block when the original cast spots them, recognizing the group of teens as echoes of their younger selves. As well as this, although this has not been confirmed in the show’s narrative, the cast of the latter show discovers a cursed box that is mysteriously similar to the box of Rollerworld money that disappeared at the end of On My Block.
Do You Need To See On My Block To Understand Freeridge?
However, despite all the nods to On My Block, viewers don’t need to see the original show to enjoy the Netflix show. Of course, seeing the original show before the spin-off can’t hurt a viewer’s experience by giving them greater context and attachment to the many colorful side characters moving through Freeridge, but the first show still isn’t required viewing. Ultimately, series co-creator Lauren Iungerich has stated that she hopes Freeridge might bring some new life into the first show by engaging new viewers, but the creators still endeavored to embed enough connections to the original show that long-time fans can enjoy the spinoff as well.
