The 20 TV Shows That Only Got Good After Everyone Stopped Watching

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

At first glance, BoJack Horseman seemed like just another offbeat cartoon with talking animals and slapstick jokes. But once the novelty faded, the show quietly transformed into something much deeper.

By Season 2, it dove headfirst into heavy themes like mental health, addiction, and loneliness, catching even longtime viewers off guard. The emotional punch was real—critics and fans alike started to notice the show’s willingness to tackle dark, uncomfortable truths with honesty, earning it a 93% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Its brutal, often hilarious self-reflection resonated with anyone who’s ever felt lost or broken. With each new season, BoJack’s journey became more relatable, making it a cult favorite for those who stuck around.

Collider and Screen Rant both highlighted how the series matured, becoming a benchmark for animated storytelling that defied expectations. BoJack ended up as one of Netflix’s most celebrated originals, but only after many viewers had already moved on.

The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Office’s first season struggled to find its footing, often feeling like a pale imitation of the British original. The awkward silences and dry humor left American audiences unsure.

But by the second season, everything changed—the show found its own rhythm. Characters like Michael Scott and Jim Halpert began to feel more human, and the documentary-style awkwardness became charming rather than uncomfortable.

As the series progressed, it became a workplace comedy staple, with memorable moments and iconic lines that would go on to define a generation. Its Rotten Tomatoes rating soared to 91%, a testament to its growing appeal.

By the time fans realized what they were missing, The Office had already become a binge-worthy phenomenon, dominating streaming charts years after its original run. Collider credits the show’s shift towards heartfelt, character-driven humor for its lasting success.

Parks and Recreation (2009–2015)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Parks and Recreation’s shaky start didn’t do it any favors—critics and viewers alike found the first season awkward and derivative. The mockumentary style, initially seen as a clone of The Office, didn’t land well.

But in Season 2, the show reinvented itself: Leslie Knope became more optimistic, the supporting cast found their comedic voices, and the show’s small-town warmth started to shine. Suddenly, Parks and Rec felt like a love letter to community and friendship.

Collider notes that the chemistry of the ensemble cast became its biggest asset, creating genuine, laugh-out-loud moments. By its final season, the series boasted a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and had become a staple in the sitcom world.

The transformation was so dramatic that many who gave up early on had to return, only to find a show that felt like home.

Seinfeld (1989–1998)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Seinfeld’s beginnings were humble, with its first season attracting little attention and modest ratings. The humor felt niche, and the show’s focus on “nothing” was an oddity in the TV landscape.

But by Season 3, the writing sharpened and the cast’s chemistry blossomed, propelling Seinfeld into the mainstream. The sitcom soon became a cultural juggernaut, with catchphrases and scenarios that crept into everyday conversations.

With a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the series is now hailed as one of the greatest comedies ever. Collider highlighted its influence, noting that Seinfeld’s observational style shaped the future of sitcoms.

Its legacy continues to inspire, but during its early years, only a handful of loyal viewers stuck around to witness its rise.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer started as a quirky, supernatural teen drama with modest ambitions. The first season’s “monster-of-the-week” formula felt predictable, and critics weren’t sure what to make of it.

But as the series progressed, it began exploring deeper themes—identity, empowerment, and the complexity of growing up. The stakes grew higher, the villains more compelling, and the character arcs richer.

Buffy earned a 92% Rotten Tomatoes rating, a sign of its growing sophistication. Collider’s reviews praised the way the show blended horror, comedy, and heartfelt drama.

Over time, it built a passionate fanbase, but its true depth only became apparent after many had already tuned out. Today, it’s a touchstone for genre television, cited as a major influence by countless creators.

The Wire (2002–2008)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Wire was praised by critics from the start, but its slow-burn storytelling and dense plotting kept mainstream audiences at bay. Early seasons focused on the drug trade, but subsequent chapters expanded to explore the police, schools, politics, and media in Baltimore.

This broadening of scope enriched the show’s world, turning it into a complex portrait of urban America. The Wire’s 94% Rotten Tomatoes rating reflects its critical acclaim, but during its original run, it was far from a ratings hit.

Collider pointed out how the show’s nuanced approach to social issues and its refusal to offer easy answers made it a rewarding but challenging watch. Years later, its reputation has only grown, with many calling it the best drama ever made—even if most viewers discovered it long after it aired.

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Star Trek: The Next Generation’s first season struggled to escape the shadow of the original series, with clunky dialogue and underdeveloped characters. Critics were skeptical, and some fans were downright hostile.

But starting with Season 2, the show found its groove—storylines became more ambitious, and characters like Captain Picard and Data evolved into icons. The series began tackling social and philosophical dilemmas, making each episode feel relevant and thought-provoking.

Its Rotten Tomatoes score climbed to 94%, and Vulture noted how the show’s willingness to take risks paid off in the long run. The Next Generation ultimately redefined what sci-fi television could be, but many only recognized its greatness in hindsight.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. didn’t exactly wow viewers out of the gate.

Critics called it slow and formulaic, and its procedural structure felt disconnected from the larger Marvel universe. But as the seasons rolled on, the show embraced serialized storytelling and complex character arcs.

Plots became more intricate, weaving in elements from the MCU and giving the series a sense of urgency and stakes. Its 92% Rotten Tomatoes rating by the final season reflected a major turnaround.

Screen Rant highlighted how fans who stuck with the show were rewarded with twists, high-stakes drama, and surprisingly emotional moments. It found its voice just as many had given up.

Blackadder (1983–1989)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Blackadder’s debut season drew mixed reviews, with the humor sometimes missing its mark and the historical setting feeling awkward. But the series quickly found its stride, especially as Rowan Atkinson’s biting wit took center stage.

Later seasons refined the show’s satirical edge, poking fun at British history with sharp writing and memorable characters. Critics from Collider and Screen Rant both celebrated its evolution, and its Rotten Tomatoes score rose to 93%.

By the end, Blackadder was considered a comedy classic, beloved for its cleverness and irreverence. Still, many didn’t discover its brilliance until years later, when reruns and word-of-mouth made it a must-watch.

Justified (2010–2015)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Justified started off as a fairly standard crime procedural, with episodes focused on U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens taking down bad guys in Kentucky.

But as the series progressed, it shifted into a more serialized drama, with layered characters and tangled story arcs. The dialogue sparkled, and the show found a perfect balance between gritty action and dark humor.

Its Rotten Tomatoes score soared to an impressive 97%. Screen Rant praised Justified’s ability to evolve, crediting its rich storytelling for the critical acclaim it received in later seasons.

The show’s transformation surprised those who expected just another cop drama.

The Leftovers (2014–2017)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Leftovers opened with a somber, sometimes bewildering tone that left early viewers scratching their heads. The first season was a slow, emotional burn, often feeling bleak and impenetrable.

But Season 2 marked a bold reinvention—new settings, new characters, and a fresh storytelling style breathed life into the series. The show found its heart, exploring grief and faith with raw honesty, and critics took notice.

MovieWeb and other outlets noted how the show’s daring creative choices earned it widespread acclaim. By its final season, The Leftovers was hailed as a masterpiece, though many only caught on after the show ended.

The Simpsons (1989–present)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Simpsons was groundbreaking from the start, but its earliest episodes were rough around the edges. The animation was crude, and the humor hadn’t yet hit its stride.

All that changed in the second season, as the show found its voice and the dysfunctional Simpson family became cultural icons. Awards Daily reports that this period marked the show’s golden era, with clever writing and unforgettable gags.

Its Rotten Tomatoes score climbed, reflecting the shift in quality. The Simpsons became a Saturday night tradition, but its best years arrived only after the initial wave of viewers had moved on.

Supernatural (2005–2020)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Supernatural began as a simple monster-of-the-week show, with two brothers fighting ghosts and demons across America. The formula was fun but repetitive, and many dismissed it as just another genre series.

But as the seasons rolled by, the show introduced deeper mythology, richer characters, and long-running story arcs that drew fans in. The Quick Report and MovieWeb both noted that Supernatural’s later seasons were filled with emotional weight and shocking twists.

Its loyal fanbase grew steadily, and by the time it wrapped up, Supernatural had become a cult sensation, beloved for its heart as much as its scares.

The Expanse (2015–2022)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Expanse launched as a niche sci-fi show with a small but dedicated following. The first season’s dense plotting and complex world-building turned some viewers away.

But as the universe expanded and political intrigue deepened, the show gained momentum. Ranker highlighted how The Expanse’s later seasons tackled social issues, explored new worlds, and kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

Its storytelling became more ambitious, and the cast’s performances drew critical praise. The series ultimately found a wider audience, but only after its initial run was nearly over.

The Venture Bros. (2003–2018)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

The Venture Bros. started as a goofy parody of old adventure cartoons, but over time, it developed into something much richer.

The show introduced layered storytelling, complex relationships, and surprisingly deep emotional arcs. CBR noted how it evolved from a simple spoof into a cult favorite, with devoted fans dissecting every detail.

Later seasons expanded the universe, making each episode feel like part of an epic saga. The Venture Bros.

gained critical acclaim for its originality and wit, but it took years for the show to get the recognition it deserved.

Better Call Saul (2015–2022)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Better Call Saul had big shoes to fill as a prequel to Breaking Bad, and its first season was mostly about laying the groundwork. The slow pace and legal drama elements didn’t grab everyone right away.

But as the series continued, it dug deeper into the moral complexities of Jimmy McGill’s transformation into Saul Goodman. The Quick Report praised its nuanced character studies and meticulous storytelling, calling it a worthy rival to its predecessor.

By its final season, Better Call Saul was celebrated for its brilliant writing and unforgettable performances, earning a devoted following.

Family Guy (1999–present)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Family Guy stumbled out of the gate, facing low ratings and even cancellation after just three seasons. But something unexpected happened—DVD sales and syndication breathed new life into the series.

Business Insider reports that when the show returned, it grew more outrageous, and its following exploded. The irreverent humor and pop culture references made it a staple for late-night TV fans.

Family Guy’s revival is a testament to the power of fan support, proving that sometimes a show just needs time to find its audience.

Schitt's Creek (2015–2020)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Schitt’s Creek was largely overlooked when it first aired, with modest viewership and limited buzz. But as streaming platforms made it more accessible, word began to spread about its sharp writing and heartwarming themes.

Business Insider highlighted the show’s meteoric rise—by its final seasons, Schitt’s Creek won multiple awards and became a cultural phenomenon. The journey of the Rose family resonated with viewers, and the show’s inclusive storytelling drew widespread acclaim.

It’s a classic example of a series that found its greatness only after most people stopped watching live.

Firefly (2002)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Firefly’s journey is both tragic and inspiring. Canceled after just one season due to low ratings, the show seemed destined for obscurity.

But DVDs and passionate fans kept the flame alive, turning Firefly into a cult classic. Business Insider notes that its post-cancellation success even led to a feature film, Serenity.

The show’s blend of space western and ensemble storytelling set it apart from anything else on TV. Firefly’s legacy proves that sometimes, a show only finds its audience after it’s already gone.

Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020), The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013), Parks and Recreation (2009–2015), Seinfeld (1989–1998), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), The Wire (2002–2008), Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013–2020), Blackadder (1983–1989), Justified (2010–2015), The Leftovers (2014–2017), The Simpsons (1989–present), Supernatural (2005–2020), The Expanse (2015–2022), The Venture Bros. (2003–2018), Better Call Saul (2015–2022), Family Guy (1999–present), Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), Firefly (2002), Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Breaking Bad always impressed critics, but its audience numbers in early seasons were modest. The turning point came when the show became available on streaming services—suddenly, viewership skyrocketed, and people couldn’t stop talking about Walter White’s transformation.

By its final season, Breaking Bad had become a cultural juggernaut, with a Rotten Tomatoes approval rating in the high 90s. Its legacy is undeniable, but the show’s true impact only became clear after most had stopped tuning in weekly.

Streaming gave Breaking Bad a second life, making it one of the most binged and beloved dramas of all time.

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