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8 Aborted Story Arcs That Would Have Totally Changed TV Shows

Unlike movies (though they can change a lot, too), TV series are made in such a way that the unfolding story is constantly evolving and being reformed. Even at the start of the process, after the idea goes through the network and producers, a show rarely ends up being exactly as the creators originally conceived it. Other times, shows take unexpected avenues during their run as public reaction or actors’ performances influence the direction of certain story arcs.

8) Breaking Bad

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Breaking Bad is a prime example of a show that that could have turned out hugely differently if some early ideas were followed through. In this case, it would have certainly affected the series for the worse.

Though it was never what creator Vince Gilligan wanted, various execs from different studios he pitched the idea to wanted to replace the meth angle with something much lighter, with one suggesting that Walter could launder money. Infamously, AMC initially offered the role to Matthew Broderick, as well as John Cusack, before Bryan Cranston was cast.

Another big change almost happened at the end of season one, when Jesse was to have died at the hands of Tuco. Instead, Gilligan had No-Doze die instead, because he realized that Aaron Paul – who was initially turned down in the role for being too good-looking to play a drug addict – could do a lot more with the part.