When the original “Melrose Place” aired, it was everyone’s prime time guilty pleasure. It was over the top and provocative, with love triangles and betrayals galore. The revamped version that currently airs on the CW is just as juicy and decadent, but somehow is not attracting the same viewership. A lack of viewers has left the show struggling in the ratings, despite purposeful advertising tactics and the inclusion of well known stars such as Ashlee Simpson.

To help salvage the new “Melrose Place,” the writers have decided to bring back what worked the best: Heather Locklear.

Locklear was a star on the original “Melrose Place,” where she starred as Amanda Woodward. Locklear’s character was quintessential to the original series, so the writers have brought Locklear back to reprise her role in hopes of attracting new and old viewers.

The role was the defining part for Locklear, who has also suffered some hard times personally lately. Her presence immediately transformed the original series in the 90s and the writers are clearly hoping for a similar transformation this time around.

Viewers can judge for themselves whether the gamble with Locklear paid off by watching “Melrose Place” on the CW, Tuesdays at 9.

Heather Locklear Reprises Her Role on "Melrose Place"