This is a subjective question, and opinions on when Shameless declines in quality vary widely. However, many fans point to Season 8 as a turning point. This is when the show's original creator, John Wells, departed and the tone shifted. Some feel that the humor became less sharp, the character development less compelling, and the overall storylines less engaging.
Here are some key reasons why many fans believe Season 8 marks a decline:
- Shifting Tone: The show's signature blend of dark humor and heartwarming moments became less balanced. Some argue that the humor leaned more towards slapstick and less towards the witty, observational humor that defined earlier seasons.
- Character Changes: Some characters, particularly Frank Gallagher, became less relatable and their motivations less believable. The show's focus shifted away from the Gallagher family's core dynamic, leading to less satisfying character arcs.
- Storyline Quality: The plotlines became more episodic and less interconnected, lacking the overarching narrative that had captivated viewers in earlier seasons.
However, it's important to note that many fans continue to enjoy the show beyond Season 8, finding new humor and emotional resonance in the later seasons. Ultimately, whether or not Shameless gets "bad" is a matter of personal preference.
