Next season is going to be quite interesting.
I blew through the British series one weekend after the first season ended last year. I have about four more episodes to go on the American version for the 2nd season. While I see many elements of the British show, I agree, the American version stands on its own, and has better character development and expanded plot lines. I guess I feel more emotional involvement with them than I did with the Brits.
And since I haven’t finished season 2, I will just nod and say it will be a long 12 months waiting for the both of us.