Why the TV Show Medium appealed to many

Sometimes I wonder why certain TV shows catch on, and some are never renewed.

Take the show Medium. Why did people like it enough for it to last 7 seasons?

1. Everyday rhythms

And there was breakfast, and there was dinner, and some nights there was a cut away scene in bed for “dessert!” Everyday life scenes made the show relatable to a lot of people. Homework, work relationships, home life — these all present familiar challenges. The girls, Ariel, Bridgette, and Marie all take turns starring in the storyline, as well.

2. Work-life balance struggle.

She’s a mom of three, she’s in school the first episode, she’s working, he’s working, there’s school and daycare and the elevator scene where she brings Marie in a stroller to check in at work…

It’s hard to balance it all.

He’s a devoted dad and husband, a hard working engineer, and a proactive problem solver.

3. “Knowing” the future addresses purpose

She’s seeking purpose. Who isn’t? She dreams things and seeks justice for victims, or to prevent harm from happening in the first place.

We want our work, lives, knowledge, personal qualities to make a difference in the world in a positive manner. We long for meaning in the darkness we encounter. Allison’s dreams give her opportunities to do the right thing.

So is it a supernatural show? A crime drama? A family drama? Really, it is a blend of several genres.

4. A different kind of marriage

It’s flirty, even after three kids, with banter and kisses and cuddling. There’s respect, teamwork, and forgiveness. Sometimes they disagree, sometimes they’re on the same page, but the love is so strong and sacrificial. Whenever one of them finds their life in danger, the other is rushing to them with open arms and loud declarations of forever love that are confirmed in the daily love and affection shown.

5. Themes

The storylines often explored grief, justice, forgiveness, guilt, morals, and the consequences of violence. The show raised questions about dreams, spirituality, morality, and what happens after death. In the end, truth mattered and justice was worth pursuing.

This didn’t always result in predictable endings; Allison’s dreams were fragmented, symbolic, and sometimes misleading. She had to interpret them carefully, creating suspense and uncertainty instead of providing instant answers. This gave just enough plot twists and surprises to keep the interest of the audience week after week.

6. Good delivery

Oscar-winner lead Patricia Arquette isn’t the only actor you’ll recognize. The show also boasted numerous major Hollywood actors as well as some TV regulars, all making notable guest appearances, including Jennifer Lawrence, James Van Der Beek, Neve Campbell, Fisher Stevens (from the TV show Early Edition — I was a big fan), Joey King, Octavia Spencer, Blythe Danner, and Morena Baccarin.

David Arquette guest-starred as Michael Benoit, playing the role of tv brother to his actual sister Patricia.

Photo by bady abbas on Unsplash