TV Series That Gave Second Chances to Controversial Figures

The entertainment world is famously unpredictable, but it often gives people second chances if they’re talented or can attract viewers. Television, in particular, has often helped people recover their careers after scandals – whether legal issues or professional mistakes. Casting directors and producers sometimes deliberately choose controversial figures, hoping to generate buzz or create a compelling story of someone turning their life around. These shows offer a way for actors and personalities to rebuild their reputations after a major setback.

‘Ally McBeal’ (1997–2002)

I remember when Robert Downey Jr. showed up on Ally McBeal – it was a really tough time for him personally, and honestly, I was worried about him. But he was amazing as Larry Paul! He totally breathed new life into the show, and rightfully won a Golden Globe. It was great to see him get a chance when a lot of studios were scared to work with him because of insurance stuff. Looking back, that role feels like the very first step in his incredible comeback – the one that eventually made him the huge star he is today. It was such a joy to watch him shine again.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–Present)

Winona Ryder was a major star in the 1990s, but her career slowed down after a very public shoplifting arrest. The creators of the Netflix series Stranger Things then cast her as Joyce Byers, a worried mother desperately looking for her son, bringing her back into the spotlight for a new audience. Critics loved her performance, which showed off her talent and captivating presence. The show’s huge popularity ultimately helped her revive her Hollywood career.

‘The West Wing’ (1999–2006)

After a difficult period marked by a public scandal and unsuccessful movies in the late 1980s, Rob Lowe’s career got a boost when Aaron Sorkin gave him the role of Sam Seaborn on television. This part allowed Lowe to take on more serious and complex characters, and the role quickly became popular with viewers, proving he could still lead a TV show. This success ultimately led to his long-lasting career in both comedies and dramas.

‘Ugly Betty’ (2006–2010)

In 1984, Vanessa Williams stepped down as Miss America after a scandal involving private photos nearly ended her career in entertainment. She went on to achieve success in music, but it was her role as the memorable villain Wilhelmina Slater that truly established her as a major television star. This character showcased her comedic skills and ability to dominate every scene, proving she was a talented performer whose abilities surpassed the earlier controversy that had shadowed her for years.

’30 Rock’ (2006–2013)

As a movie and TV fan, I remember when Alec Baldwin was going through a really tough time – a messy divorce and a lot of bad press because of how he sometimes acted with the paparazzi. Then Tina Fey did something brilliant. She cast him as Jack Donaghy, and it was perfect! She actually used his naturally imposing presence, but for laughs. It completely changed how people saw him. He went from being known for his temper to being this incredibly lovable sitcom character, and he even won two Emmys for it! It just proved that being able to laugh at yourself and showing some self-awareness can really turn things around when it comes to your public image.

‘Anger Management’ (2012–2014)

After being fired from ‘Two and a Half Men’ due to highly publicized erratic behavior and critical remarks about the show’s creator, Charlie Sheen quickly landed a new sitcom on FX. The series premiered to record-breaking ratings, offering Sheen a chance to return to the sitcom format and play a character that resembled his public image at the time. This provided him with a well-paying opportunity immediately after one of television’s most famous dismissals.

‘The Continental: From the World of John Wick’ (2023)

After years of being ostracized in Hollywood due to controversial statements and accusations of domestic violence, Mel Gibson has made a notable return with a role in the ‘John Wick’ prequel series. His casting as the villainous Cormac has generated discussion about whether the industry is ready to move past his past. Nevertheless, the part has put him back in the spotlight of a major action franchise.

‘Mr. Robot’ (2015–2019)

As a long-time movie fan, I remember Christian Slater being huge in the early nineties, but then it felt like he kind of faded from view with some troubles and projects falling through. So, I was really excited to see him take on the lead in this techno-thriller! It was a complex, mysterious role, and he absolutely nailed it. Honestly, it was a fantastic performance that earned him a Golden Globe and really reminded everyone what a talented actor he is. It felt like a real turning point, seeing him move beyond being a teen idol and establish himself as a genuinely respected character actor.

‘Orange Is the New Black’ (2013–2019)

In the mid-2000s, Natasha Lyonne faced serious health and legal problems due to addiction, which almost cost her everything. When Jenji Kohan cast her as Nicky Nichols, a character also struggling with drug abuse, it felt incredibly authentic because it mirrored Lyonne’s own life. This performance earned widespread praise and helped her stand out in the show’s cast, ultimately leading to her later success creating and starring in ‘Russian Doll’.

‘The 100’ (2014–2020)

I remember when Isaiah Washington was let go from ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ – it was over a really hurtful homophobic comment he made on set. After that, he mostly worked on smaller films and projects for a while. Then, I was surprised and happy to see him back on network TV as Chancellor Jaha in this sci-fi show! He was a regular on the show for several seasons, and it really helped him get back on track with The CW. It felt like a fresh start and his first truly steady role since everything that happened on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’.

‘Mike Tyson Mysteries’ (2014–2020)

Mike Tyson’s past includes a conviction for rape and a reputation for violence, both in and out of boxing. Despite this, the Adult Swim animated series featuring Tyson voicing a cartoon version of himself – solving mysteries similar to Scooby-Doo – became a surprising success. The show leaned into the often-outrageous aspects of his public image and ran for four seasons, ultimately helping to reshape him as a beloved and quirky pop culture figure.

‘Sick Note’ (2017–2018)

Lindsay Lohan dealt with intense public attention, legal problems, and a reputation for being unreliable, making it difficult for her to get insurance for acting jobs. This British comedy series gave her a role in its second season – she played the boss of the main character. It was one of her first acting roles in years and allowed her to work with a comedic cast. The part represented her effort to get back into acting after focusing on reality television and overcoming personal challenges.

‘Suits’ (2011–2019)

Katherine Heigl became part of the cast of this popular legal show during its eighth season, a time when she had a reputation for being challenging to work with. Earlier criticisms of writers and directors had damaged her relationships within the entertainment industry and slowed down her movie career. Joining an already successful TV show gave her a chance to show she was a professional and talented actress in a consistent work setting. The role of Samantha Wheeler helped her rebuild her standing with television networks.

‘Charmed’ (1998–2006)

Shannen Doherty faced trouble on the set of ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ and was eventually let go due to disagreements with her co-stars. However, producer Aaron Spelling believed in her talent and gave her another opportunity by casting her in the popular supernatural series ‘Charmed’. The show was a huge success, demonstrating that she could still be a leading actress despite her previous issues. While her departure from ‘Charmed’ was also surrounded by drama, being cast in the first place was a significant show of support.

‘The Undoing’ (2020)

Hugh Grant had mostly moved away from starring in Hollywood films after focusing on different types of roles and dealing with an old scandal. This HBO series gave audiences a chance to see a more serious and dramatic side of his acting. Reviewers loved his portrayal of a seemingly charming doctor who was actually hiding a dark secret. The show helped rebuild his reputation in the US and led to opportunities for more challenging roles.

‘Last Man Standing’ (2011–2021)

Before becoming famous, Tim Allen served time in prison for drug trafficking. Later, his political opinions drew criticism. After ABC cancelled his sitcom, Fox brought it back, primarily because it resonated with a conservative audience who felt overlooked. Allen leveraged the show to remain a popular sitcom star, even as media became more divided. The show’s continued success demonstrated his lasting appeal to a dedicated group of viewers.

‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)

After a sexual misconduct allegation in 2018, Aziz Ansari largely disappeared from public view. He returned with a third season of his Netflix series, ‘Moments in Love,’ but this season focused on different characters while still being guided by his creative vision. Many saw the season as a thoughtful and artistic way for him to return to work and the industry on his own terms, allowing him to create without immediately returning to stand-up comedy.

‘Extra’ (1994–Present)

Billy Bush lost his job at the ‘Today’ show following the release of a controversial video featuring Donald Trump. After being out of the spotlight for a while, he landed a new job hosting a syndicated entertainment news program. This role allowed him to return to interviewing and rebuild his broadcasting career. He viewed it as a chance to move forward and learn from the incident that had cost him his previous position.

‘The Good Doctor’ (2017–2024)

As a movie buff, I was surprised to see Felicity Huffman back on screen! After everything that happened with the college admissions scandal and her time in prison, she landed a role on ‘The Good Doctor’ – her first gig since it all came out. Apparently, the producers really admired her talent and wanted to give her a chance, putting the past aside. It felt like a deliberate, gentle way to ease her back into the industry, and honestly, it’s good to see such a talented actress getting another shot.

‘When Hope Calls’ (2019–Present)

Lori Loughlin was heavily involved in the college admissions scandal, which led to her being dropped by Hallmark and Netflix. She’s now back to acting in a new show related to ‘When Calls the Heart,’ airing on the GAC Family network. The network hoped to attract her existing fans by giving her a chance to return to acting, specifically in the wholesome, family-friendly programming she was known for before the scandal.

‘Search Party’ (2016–2022)

After a controversial photo involving a Donald Trump mask, Kathy Griffin said she was effectively shut out of Hollywood. She later found a role on the dark comedy series ‘Search Party,’ playing a conspiracy theorist. The part suited her energetic style and gave her a consistent acting job when other opportunities disappeared. It was a significant role for the comedian during a period when she faced professional difficulties.

‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022)

Chris Brown has faced public controversy since 2009 following his assault on Rihanna, but he’s continued to work in music. Recently, he appeared as a guest star on the TV show ‘Black-ish,’ sparking mixed reactions. While some viewers criticized the casting choice, the show’s creators and cast defended it, seeing it as a chance to collaborate with a skilled artist and provide Brown with a prominent television role beyond his musical performances.

‘Empire’ (2015–2020)

Throughout her career, Naomi Campbell has been involved in several legal issues and accusations of assault related to how she treated her staff. Despite this, Lee Daniels chose her to play Camilla Marks in his musical drama, recognizing her status as a fashion icon and her naturally cool, sometimes intimidating, presence. This role helped Naomi Campbell develop her acting career and become more visible on American TV. The show itself frequently featured extravagant and dramatic characters, making her a good fit for the series.

‘Sons of Anarchy’ (2008–2014)

For years, Courtney Love has been known as much for her personal struggles with addiction and the law as for her work as an artist. However, the creator of the popular biker drama cast her in its final season, giving her a surprising role as a preschool teacher – a far cry from her usual rebellious image. Critics and audiences were impressed by the subtlety and control she brought to the part. This role finally allowed her to showcase her dramatic acting skills and gain recognition for her talent on a well-respected show.

‘Cooking with Paris’ (2021)

Paris Hilton first became famous due to a widely circulated private video, but she successfully transformed her image, becoming a DJ and building a business empire. Her cooking show on Netflix let her playfully embrace the “dumb blonde” stereotype she was once known for, connecting with viewers through self-awareness. This was a deliberate attempt to take control of her public image and show a more grown-up, yet still fun and over-the-top, side of herself. The show also benefited from people’s fondness for 2000s pop culture and her continued celebrity.

‘Great News’ (2017–2018)

Nicole Richie became well-known alongside Paris Hilton, and like many young celebrities, she had some legal troubles, including a DUI. She then starred in a sitcom produced by Tina Fey, playing a stylish and contemporary news anchor. The show highlighted her talent for comedy and her willingness to playfully poke fun at her own public persona. This role helped establish her as a serious comedic actress, moving beyond her early image as a reality TV personality.

‘The Masked Singer’ (2019–Present)

Nick Cannon lost his jobs with ViacomCBS after making offensive remarks with anti-Semitic themes on his podcast. Despite this, Fox allowed him to continue hosting ‘The Masked Singer’ following his apology and conversations with Jewish community leaders. By keeping him on the show, Fox signaled their acceptance of his efforts to learn from the situation and make amends, allowing him to maintain a high-profile television role.

‘The View’ (1997–Present)

Whoopi Goldberg was temporarily taken off the air after making remarks about the Holocaust that many found offensive. However, the network ultimately decided to reinstate her as a moderator, recognizing her established connection with viewers and her importance to the show. This situation demonstrated the show’s willingness to navigate internal disagreements in order to preserve the chemistry of its panel discussions.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ (2005–Present)

After facing public backlash and losing her career due to racist remarks, Paula Deen joined the competition show as a way to rebuild her reputation and connect with viewers. The show had a history of giving controversial figures a second chance, and this appearance marked Deen’s return to the spotlight after a period of being ostracized.

‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ (2007–2021)

Kim Kardashian first gained attention as a friend of Paris Hilton, but a privately recorded video leaked without her permission unexpectedly changed her life. This led to a reality show developed with Ryan Seacrest and E! Entertainment, which she used to take control of her public image and build a successful business. The show is a prime example of how television can transform a controversial person into a widely accepted and popular figure.

‘Dog the Bounty Hunter’ (2004–2012)

After a private phone call containing racist language was made public, Duane “Dog” Chapman’s show was temporarily pulled from the air. The network, A&E, brought the show back after Chapman apologized and met with civil rights groups. They determined his large and loyal fanbase, along with strong ratings, justified giving him another chance. He continued to appear on television for many years following the controversy.

‘Gotham’ (2014–2019)

Paul Reubens, famous for his character Pee-wee Herman, nearly ended his career in 1991 after a public indecency arrest. However, decades later, he found a role on the TV show ‘Gotham’ as Elijah Van Dahl, the Penguin’s father. This casting was a fun reference to his brief appearance in the 1992 film ‘Batman Returns’ and was warmly received by fans. It was part of a comeback that allowed him to be embraced by the entertainment industry again before his recent death.

‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (2000–2024)

In 2006, Michael Richards faced severe backlash after making racist remarks during a performance at the Laugh Factory, significantly damaging his career. The following season of Larry David’s ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ brought Richards back to television, cleverly incorporating the controversy into the show’s storyline. The season revolved around a ‘Seinfeld’ reunion and directly addressed the incident with self-aware humor, allowing Richards’ character to confront the situation. This was an unusual example of a TV show using an actor’s real-life scandal as a central part of their storyline.

‘Arrested Development’ (2003–2019)

After accusations of sexual harassment led to Jeffrey Tambor being removed from ‘Transparent’, he still appeared in the fifth season of ‘Arrested Development’. Netflix and the show’s creator defended their decision to include him, wanting to complete the story of the Bluth family. While the cast supported the season’s release, the promotional events sparked controversy due to the allegations. This allowed Tambor to play his well-known character, George Bluth Sr., for a final time.

‘Melrose Place’ (1992–1999)

Traci Lords successfully moved into mainstream entertainment despite a past controversy involving her work in adult films as a minor. Her role as Rikki Leidang in a popular primetime soap opera helped establish her as a serious actress and allowed her to move beyond her earlier career. This transition is considered one of the most notable examples of someone successfully crossing over from the adult film industry to mainstream television.

‘Entourage’ (2004–2011)

Andrew Dice Clay faced significant backlash in the early 1990s due to his controversial comedy. This HBO series offered a new look at him, portraying a struggling, fictionalized version of himself attempting a comeback. The show presented a more vulnerable side of Clay and showcased his talent as an actor, separate from his stand-up persona. This ultimately helped revitalize his career, even leading to a part in the movie ‘A Star Is Born’.

Tell us which comeback story surprised you the most in the comments.

2026-01-23 22:20