I feel like the whole premium channels thing like HBO, Showtime and such really changed TV. They can get away with pretty much anything they want and can touch on some intense topics. These networks really give the producers of the show creative control, rather than letting the network's needs and ratings get involved too much.
Also, I've noticed that most of the big shows these days are focused on a character or group of character that engages in either illegal activities or general bad behavior. For example, Dexter, Weeds, Breaking Bad, Boardwalk Empire, and Mad Men all focus on characters that sell drugs, kill, gamble, or cheat yet are much more complex and we feel for them. If you ask me, I think it's a really good time for TV.
__________________
|