The Transformative Power of Television: A Personal Journey

Television has the power to shape our perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and leave an indelible mark on our lives. For one individual, the journey through the small screen has been a formative and inspiring experience, revealing the medium's ability to push boundaries, redefine genres, and forge connections that transcend the confines of the living room.

Discovering the Boundless Potential of Television

Weeds: A Paradigm Shift in Teenage Viewing

As a home-schooled teenager, the author's access to television was limited, but when they stumbled upon the show "Weeds," it was a revelation. Tracking down episodes through the internet and LimeWire, the author was captivated by a series that felt like it was "pushing boundaries" and offering a glimpse into the untapped potential of the medium. While the show may have taken a turn in later seasons, the initial impact it had on the author's teenage perspective was profound, opening their eyes to the transformative power of television.

Pushing Daisies: Ahead of Its Time

The author's admiration for the work of Brian Fuller led them to discover "Pushing Daisies," a show that they believe was simply too early for its time. With its whimsical yet sharp visual language and its unique blend of procedural storytelling, the series was a standout in a landscape dominated by more conventional television offerings. The author believes that if "Pushing Daisies" were to be released today, it would find greater success, as audiences have become more receptive to the kind of stylized and boundary-pushing content it represented.

The Traitors: Must-See Weekly Viewing

As the author has transitioned into a career in television writing, their viewing habits have evolved, with "The Traitors" becoming a must-see weekly event. While the show may not be considered "highbrow," the author has reached a point where they are constantly thinking about the kind of television they want to create – prestige, award-winning, and incisive. Yet, even amidst this pursuit of excellence, the author finds solace and enjoyment in the more accessible and entertaining offerings, like "The Traitors," which serve as a counterbalance to the intense focus on the industry.

The Leftovers: A Transformative Experience

The author's experience with "The Leftovers" was one of profound impact, as the show reinvented itself in captivating ways with each passing season. Describing it as a series they had never seen before, nor since, the author was deeply affected by the show's dark and challenging nature. While it may be a difficult sell to some, the author's desire to relive the transformative experience of watching "The Leftovers" for the first time is a testament to the show's lasting influence.

Gilmore Girls: A Timeless Favorite

Among the author's most-watched shows, "Gilmore Girls" stands out as a true favorite, alongside "The Good Wife." The author's admiration for the writing of Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino is evident, as they found inspiration in the show's intelligent dialogue, esoteric references, and the way it refused to cater to the lowest common denominator. The author's own writing style, with its emphasis on dialogue and the exploration of complex relationships, has been heavily influenced by the creative vision of the "Gilmore Girls" team.

Veep: A Comedic Masterclass

The author's appreciation for the mockumentary style of television has led them to admire the work of "Veep," a show that they believe captured the essence of this genre with exceptional skill. The ensemble cast, the biting humor, and the overall sense of fun that permeated the series resonated with the author, who saw it as a shining example of the potential for television to deliver sharp, intelligent, and unapologetically comedic content.

All-American Girl: A Groundbreaking Representation

For the author, the significance of "All-American Girl" with Margaret Cho cannot be overstated. As a young person growing up in a community where they had limited exposure to Asian representation, the show was a lifeline, a testament to the power of television to provide a mirror for marginalized communities. The author's cherished memories of the show and its impact on their sense of identity and belonging serve as a reminder of the transformative potential of diverse and inclusive storytelling.

Fleabag and Russian Doll: Inspiring the Next Generation

As the author has progressed in their own writing career, they have found inspiration in the work of Phoebe Waller-Bridge and the creators of "Russian Doll." These shows, with their sharp dialogue, genre-blending narratives, and grounded approaches to the supernatural, have ignited the author's creative spark, reminding them of the boundless possibilities that television holds for those willing to push the boundaries of the medium.

Star Trek: A Catalyst for Self-Discovery

While the author does not attribute a specific show to their coming-out journey, they reflect on the profound impact that "Star Trek" had on their relationship with their father, a deeply conservative individual. Watching the show's messages of acceptance and embracing the unknown together, the author witnessed their father's worldview evolve in real-time, providing a sense of comfort and hope during a pivotal moment in their life. In this way, "Star Trek" became a catalyst for the author's own self-discovery and the gradual acceptance they found within their family.