TV
Surprising storylines these TV shows almost had
TV shows are constantly evolving, developing new plots and introducing new characters, and usually these choices make the series even better. However, every now and then, the writers and producers behind the world’s hit shows reveal what might have been. Here are seven storylines that could have completely changed the course of our favourite series, and they will surprise you.
- Friends – Ross and Rachel may have been the core couple of the iconic ‘90s sitcom, but that wasn’t always the case – Monica and Joey were supposed to be the show’s main love story! However, after the roles of Ross and Rachel were cast and the producers saw the chemistry between Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer, they decided to switch paths. And thank goodness they did! We can’t imagine it any other way.
- Lost – The role of Jack, the show’s main character (played by Matthew Fox), was originally meant for Michael Keaton. Additionally, Lost creator J. J. Abrams planned on killing off the character in the pilot episode and making Kate (Evangeline Lilly) the main character. Anyone who’s seen the show will know just how different it would have been if this had happened.
- 24 – Fans of this thrilling, fast-paced action series starring Kiefer Sutherland will be shocked to learn that 24 was originally going to be a romantic comedy. Yep, producers originally wanted a series about a couple planning a wedding over 24 hours. Frankly, we’re glad they went with plan B!
- E.R. – Julianna Margulies’ character was going to die from a drug overdose in the pilot episode, but after producers received very positive feedback for her from test audiences, they decided to keep her and pursue a storyline with George Clooney’s character as a love interest.
- Cheers – Sam was going to get AIDS in an effort to tackle one of the biggest issues of the ‘80s. Instead, the producers went with alcohol addiction, believing it would resonate with more of their audience and be a less dark plot line than a life-threatening medical condition.
- Breaking Bad – The hugely popular series had a few axed storylines that would have changed it forever – including killing off one of the main characters, Jesse – but it almost took an even darker turn. Showrunner Vince Gilligan had planned on a plotline featuring Walt kidnapping and torturing a drug dealer in his basement, leading to the death of his son Walt Jr.
- Star Trek – An axed episode idea had the Enterprise turning into a giant baby. Yes, you read that right – the ship hit some mysterious space debris and became possessed by the soul of a newborn baby. If it had gone ahead, we think it would be a strong contender for the show’s wackiest storyline.
Which of these shows was your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.
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