10 Forgotten CW Shows That Deserve a Comeback

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The finale of the Arrowverse could signal the twilight of The CW’s golden era, yet it’s undeniable that the network will return, stronger and more impressive. Established on September 18, 2006, as a successor to The WB and UPN networks that closed down a few years prior, The CW (named after its co-founders CBS Corporation and Time Warner) has consistently delivered quality shows for viewers.

Some popular original CW series that readily come to mind are “The Vampire Diaries,” “Dynasty,” “Supernatural,” and “Veronica Mars.” Regrettably, numerous other TV shows didn’t receive the same level of acclaim. A few only managed a single season or two, while others ran for a while but their storylines weren’t extensively analyzed by fans. Here’s hoping that viewers might still give these overlooked shows a try.

10
‘Hellcats’ (2010)

Desperate for a scholarship, Marti Perkins (Aly Michalka) enrolls in Lancer University as a pre-law student. However, her application is rejected. In search of another opportunity, she decides to join the university’s cheerleading squad, Hellcats. Along the way, she forges friendships with some intriguing individuals.

No Scholarship? No Problem

Originating from the book of journalist Kate Torgovnic, “Hellcats” is a charming blend of comedy and drama that showcases its entire cast at their peak, continually crooning and tapping their toes with enthusiasm. This coming-of-age story is musically engaging throughout, offering captivating scores not only on college themes but also addressing significant societal issues. The production was even nominated for the Golden Reel Award in the Best Sound Editing: Short Form Musical category in Television, ensuring an enjoyable experience.

9
‘Aliens in America’ (2007)

In Justin Tolchuck’s (Dan Byrd) initial year at high school, he finds it hard to fit in and make friends. To potentially turn things around, his mother decides to welcome a foreign exchange student into their home, hoping for a positive change. However, contrary to her expectations, they are introduced to Raja Musharaff (Adhir Kalyan), a 16-year-old from Pakistan instead of a European boy. Initially, the family feels uneasy, but they eventually learn to embrace and tolerate their new guest.

The Importance of Tolerance

At a point where issues like racism, xenophobia, and immigration are prevalent discussions, watching Aliens in America becomes almost indispensable. The series promotes understanding without being overly didactic. It’s filled with witty humor that catches you off guard, and it keeps the absurdity coming non-stop. For teenagers, it serves not only as a source of laughter but also as an inspiration, urging them to seize every moment of life, even when schoolwork and typical adolescent struggles seem overwhelming.

8
‘Emily Owens, M.D.’ (2012-2013)

In the world of top-tier medical dramas, Emily Owens, M.D. often gets overlooked, yet it’s a hidden treasure. The story revolves around Emily Owens (played by Mamie Gummer) who secures an internship at her dream hospital, only to find out that her high school nemesis has also been given the same opportunity. Will they manage to find common ground or will past conflicts continue to dominate their relationship?

More Scheming than Treating

Consider Emily Owens, M.D. as a blend of Grey’s Anatomy and Mean Girls, where the backstabbing and political maneuvering can rival that seen in Game of Thrones (but without any violent content). Despite having only one season, this series is not to be overlooked. It boasts beautiful cinematography and a well-crafted script, skillfully executed by Jennie Snyder Urman, who has worked on the creative teams for Jane the Virgin and Gilmore Girls.

7
‘Runaway’ (2006)

The Hollands, a typical American family, have recently settled in Bridgewater, Iowa, following Hurricane Katrina. However, unbeknownst to their new neighbors, they are fugitives, having fled due to a miscarriage of justice – the patriarch was wrongfully convicted for a murder he didn’t commit. Tragically, the true perpetrator is hot on their trail.

Fighting the Law and the Lawless

Intensely emotional, highly charged, and thrilling, this swiftly moving series showcases another outstanding performance by Donnie Wahlberg, portraying a man fighting to safeguard his family and restore his reputation. Reminiscent of the classic series The Fugitive, it’s also important to acknowledge series creator Chad Hodge for masterfully crafting the narrative, skillfully building suspense that reaches a breathless crescendo. Unfortunately, the show didn’t have as long a run as desired, but Hodge later demonstrated his talent again with Wayward Pines.

6
‘Reaper’ (2007)

Sam Oliver (played by Bret Harrison) strives for a routine life, unaware of his father’s past deal with Satan. In exchange for curing his illness, the father had agreed to surrender his firstborn son upon maturity. Now, Satan has returned to claim his due. He wants Sam to assume the role as a bounty hunter, tracking down escapees from Hell who have defied their fate and using his newfound abilities to return them.

A Most Unusual Career

The captivating television series, “Reaper,” offers a comical take on Satan and his mischief, effectively depicting the intricate and self-centered characteristics of humans. Bret Harrison delivers an outstanding performance as the perplexed protagonist, interpreting his chaotic reality in a relatable way for the ordinary Joe. Andrew Airlie, playing Sam’s father, and Ray Wise, embodying the Devil, are part of an exceptional ensemble cast. However, it’s the eccentric individuals that Sam pursues that truly make this show a success.

5
‘Frequency’ (2016)

In the show “Frequency”, NYPD Detective Raimy Sullivan (played by Peyton List) learns a method to converse with her deceased father through his old ham radio. This revelation encourages her to attempt bringing him back, but this action sets off a series of unexpected events known as the “butterfly effect”, altering different timelines in unwelcome ways. As a result, they must collaborate to rectify the chaos they’ve caused.

A Daddy-Daughter Duo You Can Root For

In a fresh take on time travel, creator Jeremy Carver, who previously worked as a writer for “Supernatural”, gives “Frequency” an intriguing twist. Peyton List’s captivating portrayal of the lead character brings to mind some of television’s top detectives, but Riley Smith nearly steals the limelight with his acting skills. This is one of Carver’s most creative projects, and it undoubtedly delivers in a big way. We can’t help but wish for more seasons.

4
‘Life Is Wild’ (2007)

Each day in the jungle is filled with excitement, as demonstrated by the show “Life’s Wild“. In this series, a veterinarian and his second spouse decide to relocate their family to a South African game reserve that is managed by his ex-father-in-law. Unsurprisingly, adapting to these new living conditions turns out to be quite a challenge, leading to the rise of tensions among them.

Foreign Fun

Life is Wild vividly portrays the more alluring facets of Africa, accompanied by the unique camaraderie and vibrancy of its inhabitants. The cinematography is breathtaking as well, with captivating shots of nature and exotic wildlife that are sure to astonish you. Crucially, the series underscores the significance of appreciating diverse cultures and preserving natural habitats.

3
‘Containment’ (2016)

The issue of confinement revolves around an outbreak in Atlanta, where numerous individuals are isolated within a designated safety perimeter. However, this arrangement has led to growing frictions, culminating in internal conflicts and a significant danger that the virus could spread worldwide.

Relevant in a Post-COVID World

In the series “Containment”, Claudia Black reaches the pinnacle of her career, portraying a senior doctor within the CDS with exceptional skill. The scriptwriters opt to explore character conflicts rather than delve into the intricacies of medical practice. This approach allows us to observe how both admirable and questionable behaviors can emerge in challenging situations. As certain characters display an inherent sense of morality, others make perplexing ethical decisions.

2
‘Privileged’ (2008)

The protagonist in Privileged is Megan Smith, a 23-year-old journalist with a degree from Yale, who doesn’t hesitate to work for a tabloid. She’s certain she’ll soon move up to bigger opportunities. Unfortunately, she loses her job, which leaves her no choice but to accept a position as the tutor for the rebellious teenage granddaughters of a cosmetics tycoon.

Tough Students

The comedy-drama features a truly natural and captivating performance by JoAnna Garcia, as she beautifully portrays a former journalist turned tutor with both charm and depth. The show’s humor is abundant yet never overpowers its more serious themes, avoiding slipping into didactic career commentary. Despite its short run, we feel fortunate to have enjoyed watching it.

1
‘Life Unexpected’ (2010)

Life Unexpected presents us with Lux Cassidy (Britt Robertson), a teenager who’s had enough of living in foster care and yearns for emancipation. To make this happen, she needs her biological parents’ approval, so she embarks on a search to find them. However, the encounter leaves her connected to them in ways she could not have foreseen.

Late Parenting Can Still Work

This engaging, humorously appealing teen series excels thanks to excellent direction and a strong connection between its young and mature actors. It underscores the importance of attentive parenting over laissez-faire, making a compelling, heartwarming story with numerous memorable lines. We were eager for more episodes, but perhaps Once Upon a Time and Revenge might not have been as successful if showrunner Liz Tegilaar had remained attached to the show.

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2025-02-07 02:33