10 TV Shows Ruined By Their Own Popularity

6. The Big Bang Theory

Although from conception The Big Bang Theory was a by-the-numbers network sitcom about a group of friends made by Chuck Lorre, in its early days it was a totally different beast. Relishing much more in the interests of its geek protagonists, the jokes had more a science/nerd-culture bent. As it rose in popularity, however, the focus shifted; it was always the case to some degree, but the jokes became less about laughing with the characters, but laughing directly at them.

Sure it was never knocking it out of the park, but there was something amenable about the gang - socially-inept Sheldon, sleazy Howard, shy Raj and, dare we say it, normal Leonard - and their interactions (particularly with Jim Parsons' Sheldon) made it likeable.

However, as it grew in popularity things changed. The science-speak was more contextual than essential and more female characters were added to the main cast in an attempt to diversify the appeal. Heck, Howard went from a turtle-necked Barney Stinson into a happily married guy over the course of a few seasons.

Being a network comedy the sky was the limit and so as popularity increased, rather than accepting success Lorre tried to increase it even more, making it less distinct. It wasn't for geeks as much as it was about geeks.