Key Takeaways:
– Original concepts for Suits involved a Wall Street setting, with a striking similarity to the 2000s TV show, The $treet.
– The creator, Aaron Korsh, shifted focus due to repeated Wall Street show failures, developing the law firm drama we know today.
– The $treet struggled due to its complex plot and competition from The West Wing, leading to an untimely cancellation.
A Transformational Journey of a TV Show
Most of us fondly remember Suits for its unique concept and captivating characters leading the way for legal dramas. But, it might surprise you to know that the show originally stemmed from a Wall Street drama idea, crafted by its creator, Aaron Korsh.
How did we get from Wall Street brokers to highly-skilled lawyers winning seemingly impossible court battles? Let’s unpack the transformation.
A Trade From Bankers to Lawyers
Aaron Korsh initially envisioned Suits as a half-hour comedy focused on the happenings of Wall Street, reminiscent of a present-day Entourage. As shocking as it sounds, he wanted to exploit the high stakes, and occasionally over-the-top antics found in the world of finance.
Upon completion, however, the show had morphed into an hour-long program. It was no longer the light-hearted comedy Korsh had initially intended. It was now packed with dramatic plot twists and turns. Despite this change, elements of Korsh’s original Wall Street concept made their way to the pilot episode.
The Show That Shaped Suits
Interestingly, another TV show, The $treet, which debuted in 2000, was a significant factor in redirecting Suits from its Wall Street narrative. The $treet aimed to make its mark amid numerous TV shows, featuring the actor Rick Hoffman, later renowned for his role as Louis Litt in Suits. However, it failed to capture the audience’s attention and soon encountered an abrupt end.
This made Korsh reconsider his original sitcom idea, rooted in a world of stocks and corporate finance. The fear of a similar failure led him to entirely reimagine Suits, shaping it into the legal drama that ultimately won our hearts.
The $treet – A Forgotten Gem
So, why didn’t The $treet take off as expected? The series chronicled the lives of young Wall Street traders and managed to attract just over five million weekly viewers. Executives abruptly discontinued the series, stating that it was not an immediate success despite its potential.
The series excellently balanced work-life complexities, coupled with engaging narratives. But less than positive critics’ reviews and a tough time slot competing with prime-time The West Wing didn’t do it any favors. After a brief seven episodes, the series was abandoned, leaving viewers disappointed.
Conclusion
The journey of Aaron Korsh, from the first draft of Suits to its ultimate form, is nothing short of inspiring. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, venturing away from our initial plans can yield something magical. As such, the Suits we’ve come to love is a testament to the power of adaptation and innovation.
Who knows what may have happened if Suits had stuck to its Wall Street roots? It’s fun to speculate on the what-ifs. But in the end, we’re more than pleased with the show Suits turned out to be!
You can watch The $treet on YouTube, and Suits is available for streaming on Netflix.
