Twice in a Lifetime

Twice in a Lifetime follows people who die prematurely and are granted a second chance to correct a single mistake that affected their lives and the people around them. Each episode introduces a different protagonist who is sent back under strict conditions to try to repair a relationship, right a wrong, or change a regret. The series keeps the focus personal and contained, emphasizing choices, consequences, and family dynamics rather than elaborate special effects. Episodes play out like moral case studies, with tension coming from time limits, tricky circumstances, and the emotional fallout of trying to set things straight.

Created by Steve Sohmer and premiered in 1999, the show starred Al Waxman as Judge Othniel and featured Paul Popowich as Mr. Smith in recurring roles. Its format leaned toward standalone, hourlong stories that mixed drama with speculative framing, letting guest actors headline individual installments while the central figures provided continuity.

The program didn't collect major industry awards, and there are few records of big nominations. Still, the cast's work, especially Waxman's steady presence, was often noted, and certain episodes received favorable mentions from viewers and some reviewers who appreciated the show's moral focus.

While it never became a mainstream cultural touchstone, Twice in a Lifetime found a modest audience among viewers who liked late 90s TV with supernatural premises and ethical questions. It gets occasional nods from fans of anthology-style drama, and a handful of episodes are still discussed by people who remember its mix of family issues and afterlife rules.

Critical reaction was mixed and audience scores stayed lukewarm, reflected in a 5.5/10 vote average on some databases. Reviewers pointed to uneven episode quality but generally acknowledged the series' willingness to pose difficult choices about redemption, responsibility, and the ripple effects of small decisions. The show works best when it keeps the stakes intimate and lets the moral problem drive the drama.