10 TV Shows That Changed Dramatically

One of Netflix’s earliest hits, Orange Is The New Black is a show whose lofty aims only grow as it goes on. Set in a women’s prison, by design viewers are introduced quickly to a large cast of inmates and guards. The entry point, though, is Piper Chapman, who sticks out like a sore thumb in her capacity as an unworldly WASP convicted for an historic, one-off offence.

As the show goes on, though, the writers smartly realise that Piper is by no means the most interesting character they have at their disposal. Indeed, OITNB is commendable for the diversity of its cast, and through flashbacks we’re introduced to women from all walks of life.

With Piper’s story pushed to a supporting role, it allows showrunner Jenji Kohan to examine topics like the education system, immigration, mental health, and the cycle of poverty. The show isn’t always the most subtle, but its ability to reshape and refocus allows it to examine important issues on a major platform.

While Piper remains the de facto lead, by its conclusion the show is a true ensemble piece, and arguably has its finest moments in the last couple of seasons.