Editing Dark Shadows (section)

=== Influence on Genre Television ===
The narrative structure and genre-blending approach of ''Dark Shadows'' have been cited as influential in shaping modern television. The series' use of long-form serialized storytelling, and its integration of horror and melodramatic elements were precursors to elements now common in contemporary television series. Dark Shadows emphasis on character-driven horror within a serialized framework served as a template for various cult and fantasy television series. Scholars have pointed to its lasting impact on shows such as ''[[Buffy the Vampire Slayer]]'', ''[[The Vampire Diaries]]'', ''[[Supernatural (American TV series)|Supernatural]]'', and ''[[American Horror Story]]'', all of which build on the format and tone pioneered by ''Dark Shadows.'' <ref name="Higgins" /><ref name="Benshoff" />