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Murder One was a critically acclaimed legal drama television series that aired on FOX from 1995 to 1997. The show was created by Steven Bochco, who also created the highly successful NYPD Blue and Hill Street Blues. Murder One was unique for its time because it followed just one case throughout the entire season, allowing for in-depth character development and a more intricate plot.

The show starred Daniel Benzali as Ted Hoffman, a prominent criminal defense attorney who takes on the case of a young Hollywood actor, Neil Avedon (played by Jason Gedrick), who is accused of murdering a teenage girl. Ted's team of lawyers and investigators must sift through a complex web of motives and suspects to build a successful defense for Neil. The show also follows the lives of the characters outside of the case, including Ted's own personal and professional struggles.

Murder One was praised for its gritty, realistic portrayal of the criminal justice system and its intricate plot. It was also noteworthy for its use of multiple plot arcs and a large ensemble cast. The show featured notable guest stars such as Patricia Clarkson, Kevin Tighe, and Stanley Tucci, among others.

The show was also praised for its writing and acting, particularly the performance of Daniel Benzali. Benzali's portrayal of Ted Hoffman was lauded as one of the most complex and nuanced on television at the time. His gravitas and commanding presence on screen made him a standout performer, and his interactions with the other characters often elevated the show to new heights. Other standout performances came from Mary McCormack as Ted's investigator and J.C. MacKenzie as one of Ted's protégés.

The show's first season was a critical success, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Television Drama Series and an Emmy nomination for Daniel Benzali for Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series. However, the show struggled to maintain its audience in its second season, and FOX ultimately canceled it after just two seasons.

Despite its short run, Murder One has remained a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the most groundbreaking legal dramas in television history. The show's focus on complex characters and intricate plotlines has influenced countless legal dramas that have aired in the years since its cancellation. It was also notable for its use of the one-case-per-season format, which has since been used in many other crime dramas.

In conclusion, Murder One was a critically acclaimed legal drama that aired on FOX from 1995 to 1997. The show followed the intricacies of a single murder trial over the course of an entire season, allowing for in-depth character development and a more complex plot. Daniel Benzali's performance as Ted Hoffman drew widespread praise, and the show's success paved the way for many other legal dramas that followed. Though it was cancelled after just two seasons, Murder One remains a cult classic and a groundbreaking piece of television history.

Murder One is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (41 episodes). The series first aired on September 19, 1995.