Pushing Daisies

Ned the pie maker has a remarkable gift: a single touch can wake a dead person and briefly restore their life. He uses this power to help solve crimes in his charming town, unwilling to let the living forget the dead. His world loosens when he rekindles a relationship with his revived childhood sweetheart, Chuck, who now walks the line between living and unseen danger. He pairs with Emerson Cod, a wry private investigator who treats crime like a clever puzzle, and Olive Snook, a lovesick waitress who aches for Ned. Together they chase clues, face strange moral questions, and blend whimsy with noir style in a show that feels part fairy tale, part procedural.

Created by Bryan Fuller, Pushing Daisies premiered on ABC in 2007 with Barry Sonnenfeld directing the pilot. The series became known for its bright visuals, brisk dialogue, and offbeat blend of romance, mystery, and whimsy. It drew a devoted audience.

The show stood out for its candy colored palette, whimsical set design, and punchy one liners that balanced sweet charm with sharp sarcasm. It built a small but devoted fan base and influenced later genre blends that mix fairy tale vibes with crime drama. The tone stays playful yet thoughtful.

Critics widely praised its originality, bold visuals, and performances especially by Lee Pace and Kristin Chenoweth, though some found the tone uneven. The show frequently wrestles with life and death, second chances, and how desire can blur moral lines. Some critics noted occasional tonal shifts as themes linger after episodes.

The series earned multiple Emmy nominations and drew attention for its makeup, production design, visual effects, and distinctive title sequence. Its imaginative approach to storytelling earned critics praise and helped cement Bryan Fuller’s reputation for inventive television. Nominations affirmed its risk. Its technical craft earned praise widely across audiences worldwide.