How Louie and Other Excellent Shows Hint at a Bright Future for Television

We've gotten pretty used to television networks not taking risks. I mean, that's pretty much their whole M.O., right? Why gamble on something you aren't sure about when Two and a Half Men and its ridiculously cliché jokes and entire format is still one of the highest rated shows ever. But those days may be over.

Louis C.K. is a pretty big name, but mainly amongst comedy nerds and other comedians. If I mentioned him to my mother she would likely have no idea who he was. Of course, she might not even recognize a name like Jerry Seinfeld, but that's besides the point. The point being that FX definitely didn't have a sure bet when they gave him total creative control to spend their money however he wanted. But it didn't matter.

Jon's Top 5 TV Shows of 2010

2010 has been a big year for television. With many shows continuing excellent runs, running into their final seasons, and coming to unexpected ends, the landscape for what to expect from this mainstream media has been constantly changing. Despite ever-flowing tidal forces in the industry, some shows have handily floated to the top. Without further ado, here are my top five television shows that have personally led to my most active watching schedule in recent years.