9. Cheers Almost Didn’t Make It
Cheers was on TV for more than ten years throughout the 80s and 90s, so it might surprise you to know the show was almost canceled in its first season. According to Nielsen, the series debuted at a disappointing 77th place out of 100, immediately putting it on life support. Luckily for Ted, Sam, and the rest of the Cheers regulars, NBC entertainment president Brandon Tartikoff kept it on the air.
Cheers went on to earn 28 Emmys and six Golden Globes. Perhaps it was in part to all the little quirks that made the show great, like the bar talk. The creators eavesdropped on conversations in bars around LA to get material for the show. Ted Danson also attended bartending classes as part of his training to play Sam, which helped him look like a pro behind the counter.