I don't know much about the original series because its from the 80's and I tend to not like 80's things despite having been born in the 80's. But I do know about the tie ins with the (former) adult characters.
I really liked JT because he always meant well and was always so unsuspecting...reminded me of guys I went to middle/high school with. I thought his death was like the most unnecessary thing ever.
Yeah I read that the Steele girl wasn't coming back...which is good, and she needs to take everyone else with her lol. They should just bring back Manny/Emma/Marco/Ellie/Wheelchair Jimmy/Spinner/Craig/ and the rest of the gang and just do "Degrassi Adults" From what I see the only one that really found success was Aubrey Graham (Shenae Grimes doesn't count for me)...so I'm sure they can clear their schedules and come back lol