Every year, new TV shows are born and old series die. That's the circle of television life: in 2024, we say goodbye to dozens of shows that have been canceled by networks and streaming services.
But even though we know how things work, it's natural to be disappointed (or angry) when a great show is canceled out of season. The premise, writing, acting, and production are all top-notch, yet for some reason (usually low ratings/viewership), that show you loved is suddenly cancelled. Sometimes it is revived by a fan campaign, but sometimes it is over for good.
Here are my picks for the seven best shows canceled in 2024 that deserve another season (or two, or five) on the air.
We may be living in the golden age of the spy thriller, but FX's entry into the genre didn't last long. It's a shame, because the film had a stellar cast, including Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, Alia Shawkat, and Amy Brenneman, and was well received by critics. Bridges stars as retired CIA operative Dan Chase. He is living in hiding when a mysterious assassin attempts to take his life. He escapes and an FBI agent (Lithgow) is tasked with bringing him in. Chase may be an “old man,” but his skills at evading his pursuers and hunting down those who want to kill him are alive and well.
Season: 2 Censored: December 2024
It wasn't supposed to be 5eva. Sad face. This comedy by executive producers Tina Fey and Robert Carlock was cancelled first by Peacock and then by Netflix. While “Girls5eva” didn't get much attention, this satire of the music industry may get more attention in the future. Renée Elise Goldsberry, Busy Philipps, Paula Pell, and Sara Bareilles give excellent performances, and the songs are true hits.
Season 3 censored December 2024
Perhaps it was unreasonable to expect a comedy based on Greek mythology to go long. However, “Kaos” spent four weeks in Netflix's top 10 TV charts, peaking at #3. It boasted a stellar cast, including Jeff Goldblum, Janet McTeer, Billie Piper, David Thewlis, and Debi Mazar. The story of Prometheus conspiring with mortals to overthrow Zeus was highly anticipated, but apparently not enough. Unfortunately, not even the gods could save the show from being censored.
Season 1 Censored: October 2024
With the success of “Bridgeman” and its subplots like “The Buccaneers,” “My Lady Jane” seemed destined to be crowned the next hit historical romance. It was a clever and cheeky set-up for another version of British royal history that rescued Jane Grey (Emily Bader) from decapitation. And for a time, all signs pointed to a long and fruitful reign of positive reviews and online buzz. Unfortunately, the show's ratings did not seem to match these indicators, and Amazon declared it terminated.
Season 1 Cancelled: August 2024
All Good Things Must Come to an End ...... But did this underrated gem really need to end so soon, as HBO tried to make it seem like the show had reached a natural endpoint, but the co-creators said in interviews that they had no idea that the final episode of season 3 would be the series finale . Fortunately, “Somebody Somewhere” ended in the best way possible, literally, as Sam (Bridget Everett) gave a final performance for her best friend Joel (Jeff Hiller) and his friends. The show's final outing was as warm and heartfelt as all the episodes that had aired before it. Its metaphorical weekly embrace will be missed.
Season 3 Censored August 2024
Not even rave reviews and rabid fandom can save a television show from cancellation; before the debut of “Evil” Season 4 in May, Paramount Plus announced that it would be its last. At least creators Robert and Michelle King are putting together a storyline for the paranormal investigation team of scientist Dr. Kristen Bouchard (Katja Habers), priest David Acosta (Mike Colter), and tech expert Ben Shakir (Aasif Mandvi). Four episodes were prepared. Ironically, “Evil” skyrocketed in popularity once it appeared on Netflix, so it's possible the show could be revived.
Season 4 Cancelled February 2024
Nothing is more frustrating than a show being cancelled even though the next season is already all written, as in this delightful Apple TV Plus musical. Series co-creator Cinco Paul revealed the interesting fact that the “Schimgadoon.” team has already written 25 new songs for season 3. As a small consolation, some of these new songs will be featured on the stage “Schimgadoon.” which will be performed at the Kennedy Center in late January. Perhaps, hopefully, we will hear “Corn Pudding” on Broadway.
Season: 2 Cancelled: January 2024
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