The show was created by Darren Star and produced by Spelling Television. Premiering in 1992, the series originated as a lightly toned drama about the personal and professional aspirations of several young adults in Los Angeles (many of whom live in the titular apartment complex). As it progressed toward the second season, however, the show gained the reputation it holds today, presenting stories of a more sensational nature that featured love affairs, blackmail, revenge, crumbling sanity, angst-ridden couples, and other extraordinary happenings. In 1999, the series concluded after seven seasons.