The first episode of “This Is Us” aired on September 20, 2016, on NBC. This pilot episode, titled “Pilot,” immediately captivated audiences with its poignant storytelling and relatable characters, setting the stage for a six-season run that would become a cultural phenomenon.
The Birth of a Beloved Drama: Understanding the “This Is Us” Phenomenon
“This Is Us” quickly became more than just a television show; it became a shared experience, a weekly ritual for millions of viewers who connected deeply with the Pearson family and their multi-generational struggles and triumphs. The show’s success can be attributed to its masterful weaving of timelines, its authentic portrayal of human emotions, and its ability to address universal themes of love, loss, family, and identity. Understanding the show’s premiere is key to grasping the evolution of its impact.
The Significance of the Pilot Episode
The pilot episode was crucial in establishing the show’s signature narrative style: jumping seamlessly between different time periods, revealing connections between characters in unexpected ways, and leaving the audience with lingering questions. It introduced us to Jack and Rebecca Pearson as they prepared for the birth of triplets, to Kevin, Kate, and Randall navigating their 36th birthdays, and to the complex web of relationships that would define the series. The groundbreaking storytelling technique set it apart.
Why the Premiere Date Matters
The premiere date, September 20, 2016, marked the beginning of a new era for NBC and for television drama in general. In a landscape increasingly dominated by streaming services and binge-watching, “This Is Us” proved that network television could still deliver compelling, emotionally resonant content that could attract a large and dedicated audience. The show’s immediate popularity validated the network’s investment.
Frequently Asked Questions: Diving Deeper into “This Is Us”
To further explore the significance of the “This Is Us” premiere and its subsequent impact, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions.
FAQ 1: Where can I watch the first episode of “This Is Us” now?
The first episode, along with all other episodes of “This Is Us,” is available for streaming on several platforms. You can find it on Hulu, Peacock, and the NBC app. You may also be able to purchase individual episodes or seasons on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and Apple TV.
FAQ 2: What was the initial critical reception of the “This Is Us” pilot?
The pilot episode received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. Many praised the show’s writing, acting, and emotional depth. Critics particularly highlighted the unexpected twist ending and the show’s ability to connect with viewers on a deeply personal level. Metacritic, a site that aggregates reviews, gave the show a score of 76 out of 100, indicating “generally favorable reviews.”
FAQ 3: How did the “This Is Us” pilot episode perform in terms of viewership?
The pilot episode drew a significant audience, with approximately 10.1 million viewers tuning in live. This strong viewership helped to establish “This Is Us” as a ratings success and paved the way for its subsequent seasons. The premiere’s impressive numbers exceeded network expectations.
FAQ 4: Who directed the pilot episode of “This Is Us”?
The pilot episode was directed by John Requa and Glenn Ficarra, a directorial duo known for their work on films such as “Crazy, Stupid, Love.” Their experience in crafting heartwarming and emotionally resonant stories proved to be a perfect fit for the tone and style of “This Is Us.” Their distinctive visual style contributed to the show’s early success.
FAQ 5: What major themes were introduced in the first episode?
The pilot episode introduced several key themes that would be explored throughout the series, including the importance of family, the impact of loss, the search for identity, and the complexities of relationships. The show also touched upon themes of adoption, body image, and societal expectations.
FAQ 6: How did the “This Is Us” premiere impact the careers of the actors involved?
The premiere of “This Is Us” had a significant impact on the careers of the actors involved, particularly those who played the core Pearson family members. Actors like Mandy Moore, Milo Ventimiglia, Sterling K. Brown, Chrissy Metz, and Justin Hartley saw their profiles rise dramatically, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations for their performances. The show catapulted them to new levels of fame.
FAQ 7: What was the “twist” that surprised viewers in the pilot episode?
The major twist at the end of the pilot episode revealed that Jack and Rebecca, the couple expecting triplets, were actually the parents of the adult characters, Kevin, Kate, and Randall. The seemingly unrelated storylines were then connected, revealing that Randall was adopted after one of the triplets was stillborn. This unexpected revelation left viewers wanting more and solidified the show’s unique narrative structure.
FAQ 8: How did the show’s creator, Dan Fogelman, come up with the concept for “This Is Us”?
Dan Fogelman, the creator of “This Is Us,” drew inspiration from his own life experiences, including the birth of his triplets (who were subsequently born as twins). He wanted to create a show that explored the complexities of family relationships and the universal human experience. He combined this with a desire to challenge traditional television storytelling formats.
FAQ 9: Did the pilot differ significantly from the initial concept or script?
While there were likely minor revisions and adjustments made throughout the development process, the pilot episode remained largely faithful to Dan Fogelman’s original vision for “This Is Us.” The core themes, characters, and narrative structure were all present in the initial script and remained consistent in the final product. The fidelity to the original vision contributed to the show’s early success.
FAQ 10: What awards did “This Is Us” win for its first season, including the pilot episode?
“This Is Us” received numerous awards and nominations for its first season, including several for the pilot episode. Sterling K. Brown won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Randall. The show also won a People’s Choice Award for Favorite New TV Drama and was nominated for several Golden Globe Awards.
FAQ 11: How did the music in the pilot episode contribute to its emotional impact?
The music in the pilot episode played a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of the scenes. The soundtrack featured a blend of contemporary and classic songs that perfectly complemented the show’s themes and characters. The use of emotionally resonant music helped to heighten the viewers’ connection to the characters and their stories.
FAQ 12: What long-term impact did the “This Is Us” premiere have on the television landscape?
The success of “This Is Us” demonstrated that network television could still compete with streaming services by offering compelling, emotionally resonant content that appealed to a broad audience. The show also helped to popularize the use of non-linear storytelling and encouraged other shows to take creative risks with their narratives. “This Is Us” redefined what a network drama could be. The impact of its premiere reverberates even today.