Get ready, crime drama fans! NBC is diving headfirst into pilot season with a double dose of intriguing new shows: 'Puzzled' and 'What The Dead Know'. This is a clear signal that the network is doubling down on what it knows its audience loves: compelling crime procedurals. But what makes these shows stand out? Let's dive in.
First up, we have 'Puzzled,' a drama brought to us by former 'Charmed' showrunner Joey Falco. The story centers around Mike Brink, a college athlete whose life takes a dramatic turn after a near-fatal fire. The resulting traumatic brain injury grants him a unique perspective, allowing him to see the world in a way that helps him solve crimes. This is based on Danielle Trussoni’s novel 'The Puzzle Master'.
Then there's 'What the Dead Know,' a series from Dick Wolf's Wolf Entertainment, penned by Beth Rinehart. This show follows death investigator Ava Ledger, who is exceptionally skilled at her job, but struggles with the living. The series will see her team up with the NYPD to crack the toughest cases. It's based on former New York City medical examiner Barbara Butcher’s memoir.
Both pilots are produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.
Here's where it gets interesting: NBC seems to be going all-in on crime dramas this season. With these two new greenlights, alongside other already ordered pilots like 'The Rockford Files' reboot and 'Protection', the network is exceeding its initial goals. The trend is undeniable: crime procedurals are the name of the game. The network is clearly aiming to capture the attention of viewers who enjoy solving mysteries and following the lives of those who work in law enforcement.
Falco, who is also executive producing 'Puzzled' with Jordan Cerf, has a track record that includes 'Sleepy Hollow' and 'Heroes Reborn'. Meanwhile, Rinehart, the writer behind 'What the Dead Know', has experience with the 'FBI: Most Wanted', 'Law & Order: SVU', and 'Chicago Justice'.
But here's a potential point of discussion: While most of the pilots lean into the crime genre, 'Puzzled' is expected to have a lighter tone. Could this be a strategic move to offer viewers a bit of variety within the crime-focused lineup?
With NBC ordering five drama pilots already, the question remains: will they stick to their original plan of ordering four comedy pilots, or will they adjust their strategy? Even the single comedy pilot so far, the untitled Goor/Del Tredici project, is set in the world of crime.
What are your thoughts? Are you excited about NBC's focus on crime dramas? Do you think the lighter tone of 'Puzzled' will be a welcome change of pace, or do you prefer the darker, more serious approach of other procedurals? Share your opinions in the comments!
