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.

Will Carell's Departure Revitalize The Office?

I can't be the only person that heard about Steve Carell's plan to leave The Office after the 2010 season, and felt mild relief. Not that he isn't a wonderfully talented comedian, and the show isn't one of the best on TV, but honestly, I'm kind of sick of his character.

As shows go, there is no shortage of zany characters with their own unique quirks in The Office, but Michael Scott has become the one whack-job out of all of them that no longer tickles my funny bone. It's abundantly clear that in every single situation he is put in, he will inevitably make the worst possible decision. One that is based on a need for approval instead of common sense. It might have been funny before, but I've come to the conclusion that it is taking away from the development of the other characters.