10 Television Shows That Took Bold Risks and Came Out Victorious

1.The Good Place (2016 – 2020)

Ever-changing Narrative

Diverging from the norm of static sitcom premises, The Good Place kept viewers on their toes with a narrative that evolved continuously. From the jaw-dropping twist in the first season to revelations about the flawed afterlife system, The Good Place's dynamic storyline made it a standout sitcom of profound depth and unpredictability.

The Good Place was a groundbreaking sitcom that challenged the traditional sitcom format by introducing a complex and ever-changing narrative. The show's creators, Michael Schur and Drew Goddard, wanted to create a show that would explore philosophical questions about morality and the afterlife. The show's unique premise and unpredictable plot twists kept viewers engaged and guessing throughout its four seasons.

The-Good-Place - Constantly Changing Premise - The Good Place (2016 – 2020)

2.Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997 – 2003)

The Song and Dance

Buffy the Vampire Slayer, known for its progressive themes, surprised audiences with a musical episode, 'Once More, with Feeling.' This risky departure from the series' structure captivated viewers as the residents of Sunnydale found themselves singing their hearts out, proving that risks can lead to some of the best moments in television.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer was a supernatural drama series that followed the adventures of Buffy Summers, a young woman who is destined to fight vampires and other supernatural creatures. The show was known for its progressive themes, including its exploration of female empowerment and LGBTQ+ representation. The musical episode, "Once More, with Feeling," was a bold departure from the show's usual format and was praised for its creativity and originality.

Emma Caulfield as Anya Amber Benson as Tara and Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy the Vampire Slayer Once More With Feeling - The Musical Episode - Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997 – 2003)

3.The Leftovers (2014 – 2017)

Shifting Landscapes

The Leftovers took viewers on a journey through different settings each season, exploring the aftermath of the mysterious 'Sudden Departure.' From Mapleton to Texas and even Victoria, Australia, the series reinvented itself with each new location, taking bold risks that paid off with critical acclaim.

The Leftovers was a post-apocalyptic drama series that explored the aftermath of a mysterious event that caused 2% of the world's population to disappear. The show was praised for its complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and stunning cinematography. The decision to change the setting each season allowed the show to explore different aspects of the human experience and the impact of loss.

The Leftovers - Justin Theroux as Kevin Garvey in his police officer uniform - A New Setting Every Season - The Leftovers (2014 – 2017)

4.Black Mirror (2011 – Present)

Shades of Hope

Known for its dark tales of technology's impact, Black Mirror surprised audiences by introducing more positive episodes like 'San Junipero.' This shift in tone provided a refreshing change and showcased the series' versatility in delivering both cautionary tales and moments of optimism.

Black Mirror is an anthology series that explores the dark side of technology and its impact on society. The show is known for its bleak and often disturbing episodes, which often serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. The introduction of more positive episodes, such as "San Junipero," demonstrated the show's versatility and ability to explore a wide range of themes.

Yorkie and Kelly: San Junipero: Black Mirror - Introducing More Positive Episode - Black Mirror (2011 – Present)

5.Doctor Who (1963 – Present)

The Doctor's Transformation

The introduction of regeneration in Doctor Who was a risky move that revitalized the long-running series. Transforming the Doctor into a new form ensured the show's longevity and set a precedent for future iterations, proving that bold decisions can shape the course of a beloved show.

Doctor Who is a long-running British science fiction series that follows the adventures of the Doctor, a time-traveling alien who explores the universe in his TARDIS. The introduction of regeneration in the 1960s allowed the show to continue indefinitely, with different actors playing the role of the Doctor. This bold decision ensured the show's longevity and allowed it to adapt to changing times and audiences.

William Hartnell as the First Doctor in Doctor Who - Regeneration - Doctor Who (1963 – Present)

6.The Mandalorian (2019 – Present)

Unveiling the Unknown

The Mandalorian's choice to keep its protagonist, Din Djarin, shrouded in mystery by rarely showing his face paid off in creating an aura of intrigue. This risk added layers to Djarin's character and set the series apart in the Star Wars universe, proving that sometimes less is more.

The Mandalorian is a space western series set in the Star Wars universe. The show follows the adventures of Din Djarin, a bounty hunter who is tasked with protecting a young child named Grogu. The decision to keep Din Djarin's face hidden for most of the series created an aura of mystery and intrigue, adding to the show's appeal.

The Mandalorian with his helmet on and Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin with the helmet off. - A Hero Who Hardly Ever Shows His Face - The Mandalorian (2019 – Present)

7.The Sopranos (1999 – 2007)

The Enigmatic End

The Sopranos' infamous cut-to-black ending left audiences in suspense, sparking endless debates about Tony Soprano's fate. This bold conclusion challenged viewers to interpret the finale for themselves, cementing the series' legacy as a masterclass in storytelling that defied conventions.

The Sopranos was a groundbreaking drama series that followed the life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss. The show was praised for its complex characters, realistic portrayal of organized crime, and innovative use of profanity. The infamous cut-to-black ending left viewers guessing about Tony's fate and sparked endless debates about the show's meaning.

James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano looks up in the final seconds of The Sopranos series finale - Cut to Black Ending - The Sopranos (1999 – 2007)

8.South Park (1997 – Present)

The Finality of Kenny

South Park shocked fans by permanently killing off Kenny McCormick, a long-standing gag in the series. This bold decision allowed the show to explore deeper themes and character dynamics, proving that even the most iconic elements can be reimagined for greater impact.

South Park is a satirical animated sitcom that follows the adventures of four fourth-graders in the fictional town of South Park, Colorado. The show is known for its crude humor, political incorrectness, and social commentary. The decision to permanently kill off Kenny McCormick was a bold move that allowed the show to explore deeper themes and character dynamics.

Composite image of Kenny from South Park with his hood down and face revealed and Kenny with his orange hoodie covering his face - Really Killing Kenny - South Park (1997 – Present)

9.BoJack Horseman (2014 – 2020)

From Laughter to Reflection

BoJack Horseman transcended its comedic roots to delve into themes of despair and introspection. The show's willingness to confront dark realities and emotional depths set it apart as a poignant exploration of human struggles, proving that animated comedy can be a profound journey of self-discovery.

BoJack Horseman was an animated comedy-drama series that followed the life of BoJack Horseman, a washed-up Hollywood star. The show was praised for its complex characters, dark humor, and exploration of mental health issues. The decision to transition from a comedic cartoon to a more philosophical exploration of despair demonstrated the show's versatility and ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Collage of Bojack Horsemen characters - Going From Comedic Cartoon To Philosophical Exploration Of Despair - BoJack Horseman (2014 – 2020)

10.Twin Peaks: The Return (1990 – 1991, 2017)

A Tale of Patience

Twin Peaks: The Return tested viewers' patience by delaying the return of Agent Dale Cooper for a significant portion of the series. This risky move, while frustrating at times, ultimately paid off in a rewarding and unconventional narrative that challenged expectations and kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

Twin Peaks: The Return was a limited series that served as a sequel to the original Twin Peaks series. The show was known for its surreal and dreamlike atmosphere, complex characters, and unconventional narrative. The decision to delay the return of Agent Dale Cooper for a significant portion of the series tested viewers' patience but ultimately paid off in a rewarding and unforgettable conclusion.

Dale Cooper and Laura Palmer stare at the camera in the Twin Peaks The Return series finale - Making The Audience Wait For Agent Dale Cooper’s Return - Twin Peaks: The Return (1990 – 1991, 2017)