In the early 2000s, family dramas began to take on a more realistic tone, with shows like "The Sopranos" and "Six Feet Under" redefining the genre. These shows tackled tough issues like mental illness, addiction, and infidelity, presenting complex, flawed characters that audiences could relate to. The families portrayed in these shows were no longer simply wealthy and influential; they were multidimensional, with rich inner lives and intricate relationships.