One incredible tool to accomplish bringing a product to the public is to put a face on TV shows, movies, and the actors in them by using good PR.
Like the rabid fans of sports, the same goes for fans and their actors, TV shows and movies. You love what you love, and it bonds you with others who love the same thing.
I liken actors and movies and TV shows to football teams. We all have our favorite ones.
A hit show takes Hollywood magic indeed, but it also takes a lot of math and science, plus the study of polls and trends to make and sell a TV show.