Television pilots often fly under the radar, yet they play a vital role in establishing the tone and introducing audiences to a show’s world, making them a crucial element in a series’ success. Many creators have crafted outstanding pilot episodes that are underrated and worthy of re-examination. One such example is the pilot episode of “How I Met Your Father,” a spin-off of the popular sitcom “How I Met Your Mother.” Despite charmingly introducing the main characters and their relationships, the pilot episode remains underappreciated. Show creator Isaac Aptaker masterfully crafted the episode, leaving viewers eager for more.
The pilot episode of “Suits” on USA Network is another underappreciated gem, expertly setting the stage for the legal drama to unfold. Creator Aaron Korsh skillfully introduced high-stakes secrets and plot twists, keeping viewers engaged. The pilot episode of Netflix’s “You” takes a darker turn, focusing on the character of Joe and his obsessive relationships. Creator Greg Berlanti skillfully crafted an unsettling episode that piques curiosity and leaves viewers eager for more.
A Still From Barry on HBO (Photo: Barry on HBO)
The pilot episode of HBO’s “Barry” is a masterclass in tone and pacing, showcasing the hitman-turned-actor’s inner conflict and moral compromises. Similarly, “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23” on ABC, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” on Amazon Prime, and “Jane the Virgin” on The CW all expertly introduce main characters and relationships, setting the stage for unique storylines and twists.
The pilot episode of Netflix’s “The Society” takes its time to establish characters and relationships before introducing mysterious events, allowing viewers to become invested in the characters’ lives. The subsequent twists and turns become all the more impactful as a result. “How to Get Away With Murder” on ABC is a suspenseful and intricate introduction to the legal drama, while “Pushing Daisies” on ABC demonstrates its unique aesthetic and storytelling style through its pilot episode.
These underrated pilot episodes showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of television creators, expertly crafted to entice viewers and set the stage for the series to come. They demonstrate the importance of a strong pilot episode in a television show’s success, making them worthy of re-examination and appreciation.
