Strong, Multi-Dimensional Characters

Suits excelled in its creation of multi-dimensional characters who grew and evolved over time. Harvey Specter, played by Gabriel Macht, is one of the most iconic characters in TV history. Known for his confidence, charm, and cutthroat nature, Harvey is a corporate lawyer who initially seems to have it all figured out. However, as the series progresses, his emotional depth is revealed, showing a man who struggles with vulnerability, loyalty, and personal relationships.

On the other side of the partnership is Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), a brilliant but uncredentialed young man with a photographic memory. Mike’s rise through the legal world without a law degree is central to the show’s premise, and his journey from an underdog to a respected lawyer is one of the most engaging aspects of the series. The dynamic between Harvey and Mike—the mentor-protégé relationship—was a driving force of the show, and their bond became one of the best examples of character development in television.

Beyond the two leads, Suits had an outstanding supporting cast, including Louis Litt (Rick Hoffman), Jessica Pearson (Gina Torres), Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty), and Rachel Zane (Meghan Markle). Each of these characters brought something unique to the show. Louis Litt’s neurotic but endearing personality, Jessica Pearson’s commanding leadership, and Donna Paulsen’s unmatched wisdom and intuition were pivotal in making the show more than just a legal drama. Every character was given time to shine and evolve, which contributed to the richness of the series.

The Mentor-Protege Dynamic

At the heart of Suits was the complex and evolving relationship between Harvey and Mike. When Harvey takes a chance on hiring Mike, despite knowing his lack of formal education, the show sets up one of the most compelling mentor-protégé dynamics in TV history. The two men form a bond that is equal parts professional and personal, with Harvey acting as a mentor, guide, and protector to Mike.

Their relationship goes through numerous trials, with Mike often challenging Harvey’s authority and moral compass. Over the course of nine seasons, they experience moments of betrayal, reconciliation, and mutual growth. Mike matures into a skilled lawyer, while Harvey learns how to open up emotionally, thanks to Mike’s influence.

This dynamic gave the show its emotional depth. While legal battles raged on, the personal growth of these two characters and their loyalty to one another remained the heart of the show.

High-Stakes Legal Drama

One of the reasons Suits kept viewers coming back was its ability to mix personal drama with high-stakes legal cases. The show was set in a world of corporate law, where billion-dollar deals, insider trading, hostile takeovers, and legal grey areas were part of daily operations. The legal cases were intense, often life-altering for the clients involved and, at times, for the lawyers themselves.

Unlike many legal dramas that focus on courtroom scenes, Suits took place mostly in boardrooms and behind closed doors, where deals were negotiated, and strategies were crafted. The stakes were always high—not just for the clients, but also for the firm and the lawyers’ reputations.

Each case had its own unique twist, with characters often having to navigate ethical dilemmas and legal loopholes. The show’s ability to merge procedural legal drama with ongoing narrative arcs kept the audience engaged and on edge.

Stylish Aesthetic and Setting

Suits was more than just a show about law—it was a show about power, prestige, and luxury. Set in New York City, the backdrop for Suits was sleek and stylish, with high-end office spaces, luxury apartments, and designer fashion playing a significant role in the visual appeal of the series.

Harvey Specter’s collection of Tom Ford suits became as iconic as his character. The sleek modernism of the Pearson Specter Litt law firm, with its glass walls and towering views of Manhattan, provided a sense of opulence that matched the high-stakes legal battles. The sharp fashion choices weren’t just about style—they were a reflection of the characters’ power and control in a world where appearances mattered just as much as legal expertise.

The show’s aesthetic, from its costume design to its cinematography, helped elevate Suits beyond just a typical legal drama. It was a visual feast that portrayed the lavish world of corporate law with elegance and flair.

Strong Female Characters

Suits is praised for its portrayal of strong female characters who were not only integral to the plot but also powerful in their own right. Jessica Pearson was the managing partner of the firm, and her intelligence, authority, and ability to handle pressure made her one of the most respected characters in the series. Her leadership was portrayed with nuance, showing both her professional brilliance and personal struggles.

Donna Paulsen, initially Harvey’s secretary and later the firm’s COO, was another standout character. Known for her sharp wit, loyalty, and emotional intelligence, Donna was the glue that held the firm together. She often provided the moral compass for Harvey, Mike, and others, and her relationship with Harvey was one of the most compelling emotional arcs of the series.

Rachel Zane, played by Meghan Markle, also brought depth to the show. As Mike’s love interest and a paralegal aspiring to become a lawyer, Rachel’s journey of self-discovery and growth paralleled the main storyline, and her relationship with Mike added emotional stakes to the legal battles.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Suits left a lasting legacy, not just as a TV show but also as a cultural phenomenon. Louis Litt’s catchphrase “You just got Litt up” became a fan favourite, and the show’s unique blend of legal jargon, pop culture references, and corporate strategy made it a hit among viewers worldwide.

The show also gained renewed attention after Meghan Markle’s engagement to Prince Harry in 2017. Her role as Rachel Zane brought even more eyes to the series, especially as fans followed her real-life transition from actress to Duchess of Sussex.

The influence of Suits is also evident in its spinoff, Pearson, which followed Jessica Pearson as she navigated the world of Chicago politics after leaving the law firm. While Pearson didn’t achieve the same level of success as Suits, it underscored the lasting appeal of the characters created by Aaron Korsh.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

Suits was a masterclass in combining legal drama with rich character development, stylish presentation, and emotional depth. Whether it was the intense courtroom battles, the clever negotiations, or the personal relationships that developed over time, Suits always had something to offer. Its ability to balance sharp, intelligent writing with heart and complexity is what makes it one of the best TV shows ever made.

From its iconic characters to its high-stakes legal drama, Suits is a show that redefined what a legal drama could be, proving that beneath the suits and legal briefs, it was always about the people and their stories.