Enlightened (2011 — 2013)

Enlightened (2011–2013), an American comedy-drama series, debuted on HBO on October 10, 2011. Co-created by Mike White and Laura Dern, the show follows Amy Jellicoe, a 40-year-old woman who returns to her hometown of Riverside, California after a two-month stint at a holistic treatment facility. Her mental breakdown at work led to a demotion, which was triggered by her self-destructive behavior such as heavy drinking and an affair with her married boss. This was all set off by a difficult divorce and miscarriage. With a newly adopted approach and outlook on life that includes daily meditation and self-help practices, Amy aims to be an ‘agent of change’ in the world. However, those closest to her are skeptical of her intentions. She temporarily moves in with her mother Helen (played by Dern’s real-life mother Diane Ladd) and reconnects with her ex-husband Levi, who is also struggling with his own personal battles and addictions.

While trying to heal Levi and mend her relationship with Helen, Amy also resumes work at Abaddonn Industries. This decision is largely influenced by the head HR representative Judy Harvey who recognizes that Amy’s bipolar disorder diagnosis may give her grounds to sue the company for discrimination. Once a buyer in the Health and Beauty department, Amy is brought back on board but is placed in a lower position within the data processing department, which is managed by the unreliable Dougie. Feeling as though she has been demoted to push her away from her former colleagues – including Krista, who now holds Amy’s old position, and Damon, her former lover and boss – Amy initially sees this transfer as a ploy to hasten her departure. However, in this new role, she uncovers numerous instances of corporate misconduct and deceit taking place at Abaddonn. This only adds fuel to her determination to bring about change for others and ultimately confirms her own personal transformation.