The mid-aughts were a triumphant time for network television, especially ABC. Along with the puzzlebox mystery, Lost, and the romantic drama, Grey’s Anatomy, the network also had another show that was lightning in a bottle. In 2004, Desperate Housewives changed how viewers looked at middle age. The show’s zingy title communicated just what kind of project this would be. Desperate Housewives starred actors who had gained fame in their past, such as Teri Hatcher and Marcia Cross, but weren’t going to let themselves be forgotten.
