TV Series That Went On For Way Too Long

Many popular TV shows stay on the air for years, and sometimes decades. While some end at the right time, others keep going even after the main story has finished. Networks often renew shows because they’re popular and profitable, which can lead to changes in the cast and a drop in quality. Looking at these long-running series helps us understand how difficult it is to keep a show fresh and consistent over many years.

‘The Simpsons’ (1989–Present)

The Simpsons is an animated comedy series about a family living in the town of Springfield. It’s the longest-running American sitcom of all time, with over 700 episodes. The show is known for its clever, satirical look at society and politics, using its memorable characters to tackle a variety of issues. While some fans feel the show hasn’t been as strong since seasons nine or ten, it’s still a hugely popular and influential part of television.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present)

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ is a long-running medical drama set in a Seattle hospital, following the careers and personal lives of doctors like Meredith Grey as they grow from interns to experienced surgeons. The show has seen many cast members come and go over the years, and it’s now the longest-running medical drama in American primetime television. Many viewers often discuss whether these changes have affected the show’s overall story.

‘Supernatural’ (2005–2020)

The show ‘Supernatural’ follows two brothers as they journey across America, hunting demons and legendary creatures. Initially, the series centered around their search for their missing father, but it grew into a larger story about a war between good and evil. Running for fifteen seasons, ‘Supernatural’ became the longest-running North American live-action fantasy series. Over time, the show’s stories went from local myths to epic, universe-spanning battles with incredibly powerful beings. Many fans noticed a shift in the show’s direction after the original creator stepped down.

‘The Walking Dead’ (2010–2022)

‘The Walking Dead’ is a series set after a zombie apocalypse, following different groups of people as they struggle to survive. Starting with Rick Grimes and a small band, the show grew to include many different communities over its eleven seasons and led to the creation of spin-off shows. As the series went on, changes in who led the groups and the loss of key characters altered the show’s focus. Many viewers and critics discussed whether the show moved too quickly or too slowly as it approached its final season.

‘Family Guy’ (1999–Present)

I’m a big fan of ‘Family Guy’! The show follows the hilarious adventures of the Griffin family in their quirky town, Quahog. It’s amazing that it was even brought back after being cancelled initially – it’s gone on to create so many episodes, over twenty seasons now! What I love most is how they don’t hold back with their humor, constantly poking fun at everything in pop culture with those quick, unexpected cutaway jokes. Though, I have to admit, after all these years, sometimes the jokes don’t land quite as well as they used to, but it’s still a staple of adult animation for me.

‘NCIS’ (2003–Present)

NCIS is a long-running crime drama that centers around a team of investigators with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. They use both scientific analysis and on-the-ground work to solve crimes related to the Navy and Marine Corps. The show has been on the air for over twenty seasons and has spawned several spin-offs. While the cast has changed over the years, including the exit of its original star, it continues to be a very popular scripted program on network television.

‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999–Present)

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is a long-running crime drama that centers on a dedicated team of detectives who handle sexually based offenses. The show follows Captain Olivia Benson as she tackles difficult cases and the problems within the justice system. As the longest-running live-action primetime series in American television history, it has explored numerous social issues and reflected changes in culture over the years. While viewers enjoy the show’s consistent characters, some find the familiar case-of-the-week format predictable.

‘Modern Family’ (2009–2020)

This funny, documentary-style sitcom centers on three different sides of one family. It was initially celebrated for being both humorous and heartwarming, earning several awards. Over its eleven seasons, the show followed the kids as they grew up and the adults as they navigated new phases in their lives. While later seasons had trouble coming up with new ideas for all the characters, the series ended with a final season designed to wrap up everyone’s stories.

‘The Big Bang Theory’ (2007–2019)

This comedy follows a group of quirky scientists and their neighbor, who dreams of becoming an actress. It quickly became a huge hit, running for twelve seasons. As the characters got married and had children, the show’s storylines changed. Though it remained popular, some viewers felt it lost some of its original spark. Ultimately, ‘The Big Bang Theory’ finished its run as the longest-running multi-camera sitcom ever.

‘Shameless’ (2011–2021)

I was completely hooked on ‘Shameless’! It followed the Gallagher family, who were… well, let’s just say life wasn’t easy for them on the South Side of Chicago. It ran for eleven seasons, and even though it was funny, it dealt with really tough stuff like poverty and addiction. I loved watching the kids grow up and deal with their own problems, even though their dad was always causing chaos. Honestly, I felt like the show lost some of its magic when a few key characters left, but it was still amazing that it became the longest-running scripted show on that network!

‘Dexter’ (2006–2013)

The show ‘Dexter’ centers around a blood spatter analyst who secretly leads a double life as a vigilante killer, targeting criminals who have escaped justice. Initially, the series was praised for its original concept and the intricate character of Dexter. However, after eight seasons, the show’s finale was widely disliked by viewers. Later, a limited series revival was created to offer an alternative ending to Dexter’s story. Many fans and critics often point to a noticeable drop in the show’s writing quality in its later seasons.

‘Lost’ (2004–2010)

After a plane crash, a group of people must cooperate to survive on a strange island. What starts as a story about basic survival soon becomes a complicated sci-fi tale with time travel and supernatural events. The show, which lasted six seasons, became well-known for its use of flashbacks and puzzling mysteries. However, some viewers found the plot became too complicated to follow as the series went on. Even now, the show’s ending is still a popular topic of discussion among TV fans.

‘Two and a Half Men’ (2003–2015)

The sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’ started with a story about a songwriter and his serious brother sharing a beach house. After eight seasons, the main actor left, and a new character was introduced, significantly changing the show. It continued for another four seasons, running for a total of twelve years. Many viewers and critics observed that the show’s humor and overall feel changed in its later seasons. Despite these changes, the series remained popular for much of its run.

‘How I Met Your Mother’ (2005–2014)

The show centers around a father recounting the story of how he met his children’s mother, using extended flashbacks. Over nine seasons, it followed the lives of five friends in New York City. Initially, the show was celebrated for its fresh approach to storytelling, but later seasons were criticized for dragging out the main plot. The final season took place over a single wedding weekend, which felt slow-paced to some viewers. Ultimately, the reveal of the mother’s identity in the finale sparked a lot of debate among fans and is still considered a controversial ending in the world of sitcoms.

‘Once Upon a Time’ (2011–2018)

‘Once Upon a Time’ followed fairytale characters who mysteriously found themselves in a small town in Maine, having lost all their memories. The show combined magical storylines with realistic drama as these characters worked to overcome a strong curse. Over its seven seasons, the series built a complex world, drawing in characters from many different books and stories. After several key actors left after season six, the show was revamped for its final season. However, many viewers believed the show’s main story had already come to a satisfying end before the seventh season began.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

The show ‘Glee’ followed a high school show choir as they navigated the challenges of teenage life, including relationships and social issues, all through their musical performances. It quickly became a pop culture sensation and launched several popular songs. Over its six seasons, the show featured many characters graduating and moving away, which broadened the storyline. However, reviewers observed that the show’s quality became uneven and its storylines increasingly unrealistic as it went on. By the series finale, many viewers felt that ‘Glee’ had lost the spark that made it so popular initially.

‘Pretty Little Liars’ (2010–2017)

‘Pretty Little Liars’ follows four friends tormented by an anonymous person called ‘A’ after their friend goes missing. The show captivated audiences for seven seasons with complex mysteries and hidden secrets. As the story progressed, the plot became increasingly complicated, featuring numerous unexpected twists and reveals about ‘A’s’ identity. Later seasons jumped forward five years, showing the characters as young adults. However, some viewers felt the main mystery stretched on longer than it should have.

‘The Vampire Diaries’ (2009–2017)

The show ‘The Vampire Diaries’ centers on a teenage girl caught in a love triangle with two vampire brothers, all set in a town with a hidden supernatural past. Over its eight seasons, the series delved into conflicts between witches, werewolves, and other mystical creatures. After the main actress left after season six, the story shifted its focus to other characters. The show’s success spawned several spin-offs that continued the story in different ways. However, many fans felt the quality declined in the later seasons, lacking the excitement and strong connection of the earlier episodes.

‘Empire’ (2015–2020)

The show ‘Empire’ centered on the head of a successful music and entertainment company who had to decide which of his three sons would take over the business. It quickly became popular thanks to its music and the dramatic conflicts between the brothers. Over its six seasons, the show included appearances by many famous musicians. However, as the storylines became increasingly over-the-top, the show struggled with production issues and falling viewership. Many fans felt the series finale was hurried and didn’t fully resolve the story, likely due to factors outside of the show’s creative control.

‘True Blood’ (2008–2014)

In a small town in Louisiana, vampires have come out of hiding thanks to the creation of artificial blood. The TV series, based on a well-loved book series, used supernatural elements to examine issues of prejudice and what makes us who we are. Over its seven seasons, the show featured a diverse cast of creatures, including fairies and shapeshifters. However, as the series went on, the plots became increasingly over-the-top and the story felt spread thin with so many characters. Many critics felt the later seasons of ‘True Blood’ lost the realistic feel of its earlier episodes.

‘Prison Break’ (2005–2017)

A man deliberately enters prison to orchestrate his brother’s escape before he’s executed. The show’s first season was praised for its suspenseful plot and clever details. After four seasons, it was cancelled, but then returned for a fifth season after several years. However, many fans found the story less compelling after the characters left prison. The later seasons shifted focus to conspiracy plots and international spying.

‘Heroes’ (2006–2010)

A group of everyday people around the world suddenly develop superpowers and must team up to protect the planet. The show’s first season was a huge hit with both critics and audiences, significantly impacting superhero television. However, the following three seasons faced challenges and creative changes, leading to a decline in momentum. Many viewers felt the show suffered from having too many characters and overly complicated storylines. While it ran for four seasons, some critics believe ‘Heroes’ overstayed its welcome, and its story should have ended sooner.

‘Smallville’ (2001–2011)

‘Smallville’ tells the story of Clark Kent’s life before he became Superman. Over its ten seasons, the show followed Clark as he grew up, learned about his abilities, and battled enemies in his small town. Later on, the action moved to Metropolis and introduced characters who would become his Justice League teammates. While the show initially focused on the challenges of growing up, it later leaned more into typical superhero storylines. Some fans thought the series took too long to fully turn Clark into Superman.

‘ER’ (1994–2009)

‘ER’ was a popular medical drama that followed the hectic lives of doctors and nurses working in a Chicago emergency room. The show ran for fifteen seasons, becoming a television staple and launching the careers of many well-known actors. Over time, the storylines became increasingly focused on large-scale emergencies, and while the original cast changed completely, many critics feel the series continued long after its best creative period, despite its lasting impact on television.

‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’ (2000–2015)

‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’ followed a team of experts who used scientific evidence to solve murder cases in Las Vegas. The show was incredibly popular and essentially created the ‘forensic procedural’ style of crime drama, leading to several spin-off series. Over its fifteen seasons, the show featured a rotating cast of lead actors. While successful, critics often pointed out the show’s predictable format. The series ultimately ended with a special television movie finale.

‘Bones’ (2005–2017)

The TV show ‘Bones’ followed a forensic anthropologist and an FBI agent as they worked together to solve crimes using skeletal remains. Over twelve seasons, the series explored both the professional partnership and developing romantic relationship between the two main characters. It consistently attracted viewers by combining crime-solving with engaging and often funny character moments. While some fans believed the show should have ended a few years earlier, ‘Bones’ is remembered as one of the most enduring crime dramas of its time.

‘Criminal Minds’ (2005–Present)

‘Criminal Minds’ follows a team of expert FBI profilers who study the nation’s most dangerous criminals to predict what they’ll do next. The show ran for over fifteen seasons and was brought back after initially ending. Throughout its run, many of the original cast members were replaced. Known for its serious and unsettling atmosphere, the series delves into the minds of criminals and explores what drives their actions. Some viewers feel the show’s format became predictable after being on television for so long.

‘House’ (2004–2012)

A highly skilled but cynical doctor heads up a team that solves medical puzzles at a hospital. For eight seasons, the show revolved around these challenging cases and the doctor’s difficult personality. Though the first few seasons were well-written, the show became predictable as it went on. Attempts were made to introduce new characters and keep the medical cases interesting, but as the series progressed, critics pointed out that it became harder to find fresh challenges for the main character.

‘Scrubs’ (2001–2010)

This comedy series centers on the humorous lives of doctors in training at a teaching hospital. It was famous for its quick wit and imaginative fantasy scenes when it first aired. After eight seasons, the show concluded, but it was later revived for a ninth season with a new group of characters. However, many viewers and critics felt this final season of ‘Scrubs’ didn’t live up to the standards of the earlier seasons, as it shifted its focus to medical students and lacked the charm of the original cast.

‘Weeds’ (2005–2012)

‘Weeds’ tells the story of a mother who turns to selling marijuana after her husband’s death to provide for her family in a wealthy suburb. The show initially poked fun at suburban lifestyles, but the plot shifted when the family was forced to flee their home. Over eight seasons, they relocated multiple times, becoming increasingly entangled in the drug trade. Many fans believe the series lost its original charm after leaving the suburban setting. The show ended by jumping forward in time to reveal the characters’ ultimate fates.

‘Californication’ (2007–2014)

The show ‘Californication’ followed a novelist in Los Angeles as he navigated his messy personal life and career. Over its seven seasons, it explored the protagonist’s indulgent lifestyle and numerous relationships. Initially praised for its clever writing, the show’s storylines became repetitive over time, and critics noted the main character didn’t really change or develop. Despite a loyal fanbase, many viewers felt the story eventually ran its course.

‘Nip/Tuck’ (2003–2010)

‘Nip/Tuck’ followed two plastic surgeons balancing their thriving careers with complicated personal lives. The show was known for its realistic and often graphic surgical scenes, as well as its dramatic storylines. Over its six seasons, the series shifted from being set in Miami to Los Angeles. As it went on, the plots became increasingly over-the-top, dividing both critics and viewers. Many believed the show strayed too far from its initial focus by the end of its run.

‘Suits’ (2011–2019)

The show ‘Suits’ centers around a remarkably intelligent man who, despite dropping out of college and never going to law school, lands a job as a lawyer thanks to his incredible memory. For nine seasons, the series followed his professional journey and kept his lack of formal education a secret. After season seven, the show changed significantly when two key actors left. While new characters were introduced, some viewers missed the original chemistry. Even after ending its run on television, ‘Suits’ continues to be a hit with audiences on streaming services.

‘The Office’ (2005–2013)

As a huge comedy fan, I remember when ‘The Office’ first hit TV – it was this brilliantly awkward mockumentary following the daily grind at a paper company in Scranton. It totally blew up and ran for nine seasons! When Steve Carell left during season seven, though, it felt like a real turning point. A lot of us fans felt the show just wasn’t quite the same without him, and the humor didn’t land as well. Even though the later seasons were a bit divisive, it’s still one of my all-time favorite sitcoms, and I think it’ll always be remembered as a classic.

‘That ’70s Show’ (1998–2006)

‘That ’70s Show’ followed a group of teenage friends growing up in a made-up town in Wisconsin during the late 1970s. The show ran for eight seasons, humorously portraying the fashion and trends of the decade. The final season experienced some changes with two main actors leaving and a new character that viewers didn’t embrace. Many fans believe this last season marked a decline in the show’s quality. The series ended with the characters starting their lives in the 1980s.

‘Roseanne’ (1988–2018)

I recently revisited this classic sitcom about a working-class family in Illinois, and what always struck me was how genuinely relatable their everyday problems were. It ran for nine seasons originally, and it was a big deal when it came back after all those years for a tenth. Honestly, though, that ninth season was a misstep – a lottery win felt totally out of character and really changed the vibe of the show. The revival started strong, but apparently there was a lot of drama behind the scenes, which ultimately led to its cancellation and, surprisingly, a spin-off. Looking back, most critics – and I agree – think the show peaked before that controversial ninth season and should have ended there. It’s a shame, because the original was so good!

‘American Horror Story’ (2011–Present)

This horror series features a new, self-contained story each season, with different characters and a different terrifying theme. Over its twelve-plus seasons, it’s covered everything from haunted locations and dangerous cults to end-of-the-world events. A familiar group of actors appears in each season, playing brand new roles. While the show was initially praised for its quality, some viewers think recent seasons prioritize visual flair over a compelling story. Despite this, ‘American Horror Story’ remains a popular and consistently renewed show.

‘South Park’ (1997–Present)

This animated comedy series, set in a small Colorado town, is famous for its often shocking and irreverent humor. It’s been running for over twenty-five seasons and is known for how quickly episodes are made. The show frequently pokes fun at current events and celebrities while they’re still in the news. While some fans feel the show changed with its move towards longer, connected storylines, ‘South Park’ continues to create new content, including episodes and special events.

‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ (1999–Present)

‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ is a long-running animated series about a sea sponge and his friends who live in the underwater town of Bikini Bottom. It’s become incredibly popular, with hundreds of episodes, movies, and related shows. While it’s still a hit with kids and a part of pop culture, some longtime fans feel the show changed after the original creator left.

‘Riverdale’ (2017–2023)

‘Riverdale’ is a dramatic series that offers a twisted and unconventional reimagining of the familiar Archie Comics characters. Starting as a murder mystery in a small town, the show quickly became known for its strange and supernatural storylines. Over seven seasons, ‘Riverdale’ kept viewers guessing with unexpected plot twists and incorporated musical performances. Many critics and fans noted how much the show changed from its original concept. The final season included a significant leap forward in time and a new location, which divided the audience until the series concluded.

‘Elite’ (2018–2024)

Elite follows three students from humble backgrounds as they navigate the treacherous social landscape of an elite private school in Spain, a situation that ultimately leads to crime and death. The show used flashbacks and flash forwards over eight seasons to create suspense. As the series went on, most of the original characters were replaced with new students. However, critics observed that later seasons relied too heavily on shocking moments and sensationalism, and many believed the show ran out of compelling storylines long before it ended.

‘The Flash’ (2014–2023)

A crime scene investigator gains the ability to run at super speed and dedicates himself to protecting the city of Central City as a superhero. The show, which lasted nine seasons, was connected to a larger world of superheroes and delved into complicated ideas about time travel and different versions of reality. Throughout its run, ‘The Flash’ featured a constantly changing cast of supporting characters and increasingly complex storylines. However, many viewers felt the show’s quality, particularly the visual effects and writing, diminished in its later seasons.

‘Arrow’ (2012–2020)

After being marooned on a desert island, a wealthy man returns to his city and secretly fights crime as a masked hero. The show, which lasted eight seasons, became the foundation for a large shared universe of superhero TV series. It successfully combined realistic, grounded action with the fantastical elements of comic books, especially as more heroes joined the team. While some felt the show lost its way in the middle seasons due to recurring character drama and weaker villains, ‘Arrow’ ultimately wrapped up by bringing together plot threads from its entire run.

‘One Tree Hill’ (2003–2012)

The show ‘One Tree Hill’ followed the lives of two stepbrothers as they competed in high school basketball and dealt with challenging family issues. Over nine seasons, viewers watched them grow from teenagers into adults. After season four, the story jumped ahead four years to show the characters in their early twenties. When two of the main actors left after season six, the show shifted its focus to the remaining characters, a change many fans felt marked a natural ending point for the series.

‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ (1990–2000)

This show follows a group of friends as they grow up, dealing with the challenges of love, life, and school in a wealthy California community. It was hugely popular in the 1990s and lasted for ten seasons, tackling important social issues through the eyes of its teenage and young adult characters. Over time, the cast changed with some original actors leaving and new ones joining to keep the storylines interesting. Many critics felt the show was strongest in its early seasons.

‘7th Heaven’ (1996–2007)

This show follows the lives of a minister, his wife, and their seven children in a close-knit town. Over its eleven seasons, it explored family values and the ups and downs of growing up. It was consistently popular with viewers and became the longest-running show on its original network. However, some fans felt the stories became repetitive as the children aged and dealt with recurring problems. Though initially cancelled, the show returned for a final season that many considered to be a misstep.

‘Charmed’ (1998–2006)

‘Charmed’ follows three sisters who learn they are powerful witches – known as the Charmed Ones – with a destiny to protect people from evil. The show, which lasted eight seasons, combined supernatural storylines with relatable family issues. After season three, one of the sisters was replaced by a previously unknown half-sister, which altered the show’s dynamic. Though it kept a dedicated fanbase, some viewers thought the later seasons relied too much on over-the-top comedy and strayed from the original magical world. Even years after it ended, ‘Charmed’ is still a beloved show for many.

‘The Blacklist’ (2013–2023)

A notorious criminal turned himself in to the FBI and agreed to help them capture other wanted criminals. The show followed the complex relationship between this criminal and a young FBI profiler for ten seasons. Although the lead actress left after season eight, the series continued for two more years. However, many fans believed the show’s main puzzle dragged on too long without a clear resolution. ‘The Blacklist’ ended with a final episode that received a varied reaction from its loyal viewers.

‘Hawaii Five-0’ (2010–2020)

Hawaii Five-O followed a dedicated police unit tackling serious crimes throughout the Hawaiian Islands. This updated version of the original series lasted ten seasons and was popular for its exciting action and beautiful filming locations. Over time, the cast changed as some of the initial actors departed. While some reviewers thought the show’s episode structure became predictable, it consistently attracted viewers and remained successful for the network until it ended.

‘Blue Bloods’ (2010–2024)

‘Blue Bloods’ is a long-running drama that centers on a New York City family whose members work in law enforcement and the legal system. A signature element of the show is its weekly family dinners, where characters debate complex ethical and legal issues. After fourteen seasons, the series has built a loyal fanbase, though some viewers feel the storylines have become predictable. ‘Blue Bloods’ is ending its run as one of the most popular and enduring police dramas ever made for television.

Tell us which long running show you think should have ended sooner in the comments.

2026-02-06 20:22