I don't think playing it safe constitutes a retreat, necessarily. In other words, I don't think if, by playing safe he means we are not going to delve into controversy, then if that's what he means he's quite right. I'm not going to delve into controversy. Somebody asked me the other day if this means that I'm going to be a meek conformist, and my answer is no. I'm just acting the role of a tired non-conformist.

New York Times critic Jack Gould called the show "one of the high points in the TV medium's evolution" and said "[f]or Rod Serlinger power of narrative forcefulness of characterization and brilliant climax Mr. [clarification needed] Serling later told friends three other men had been killed before he made the test. For a variety of reasons Serling was transferred to the 511th's demolition platoon (nicknamed "The Death Squad" for its high casualty rate).

He was known as the "angry young man" of Hollywood clashing with television executives and sponsors over a wide range of issues including censorship racism and war. Serling was active in politics both on and off the screen and helped form television industry standards.