TV Shows That Were Cancelled Despite High Ratings

Throughout television history, many popular shows have been cancelled before their time. While low ratings are usually the reason a show ends, some series with large audiences still get cut. Rising costs to make the show and changes in who networks are trying to reach often lead to these tough choices. This list highlights some well-known examples of shows that were cancelled too soon, leaving fans disappointed.

‘Firefly’ (2002–2003)

The show centers on a rebellious team traveling the edges of a high-tech world in their small spaceship. Though the network aired episodes at random and with an inconsistent schedule, it gained a large and devoted fanbase through DVD sales and online campaigns. Many viewers were upset when the show was canceled after just one season, but a movie was later released to provide closure for its loyal fans.

‘Longmire’ (2012–2017)

This sheriff-led crime drama is set in a made-up Wyoming county and centers around local investigations alongside the sheriff’s personal struggles. It was very popular during its initial run on cable, but the network canceled it because the viewers they attracted weren’t the ones advertisers were looking for. Luckily, a streaming service recognized the show’s dedicated fanbase and brought it back for three more seasons. It’s now a great example of a series being successfully revived after cancellation.

‘Manifest’ (2018–2023)

Five years after disappearing with everyone on board believed dead, a passenger plane unexpectedly returns – and no one has aged a day. The show was a hit on both television and streaming platforms, consistently ranking at the top of the charts. Despite its success, the original network canceled it after three seasons, leaving viewers with a major cliffhanger. Fans immediately started a large online campaign to continue the story and get the ending they deserved. Eventually, a streaming service picked up the show for one final season, promising to wrap up the complicated storyline for audiences around the globe.

‘Last Man Standing’ (2011–2021)

This comedy series features Tim Allen as a man working in marketing for a sports store, who finds himself surrounded by women at home. It was consistently one of the most popular comedies on its original network, ranking second during its sixth season. Despite its success and dedicated fans, the network unexpectedly cancelled the show, sparking public debate about their reasons. Fortunately, another network later revived the series, and it continued to be a hit for three more years.

‘Nashville’ (2012–2018)

This show is a musical drama about the lives of country music stars in Tennessee. It was popular with viewers and made a lot of money from its music and concerts. Even though it had a cultural impact and good ratings, the original network canceled it after four seasons. Luckily, another network and a streaming service teamed up to revive the show for two more seasons, ultimately giving the characters a satisfying conclusion.

‘Roseanne’ (1988–2018)

This beloved sitcom returned with a focus on a working-class family navigating today’s economic and social challenges. It launched to huge audiences, quickly becoming one of the most-watched shows on television. However, the network unexpectedly cancelled it after the lead actress made some controversial statements. The show was then reworked as a spin-off, continuing the story without her. This allowed the rest of the cast to keep their jobs and maintain the show’s popularity.

‘Lucifer’ (2016–2021)

The show centers around the Devil, who unexpectedly decides to open a nightclub and work as a consultant for the Los Angeles Police Department. Despite a dedicated fanbase, it was abruptly canceled after three seasons. The news of its cancellation quickly became a major trending topic online, and a streaming service noticed the strong public interest. They then revived the series, commissioning three additional seasons. The show ultimately became a huge hit on the platform, consistently ranking among its most popular programs.

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021)

This funny show centers around a group of gifted but often childish detectives working at a police station in New York City. It quickly gained praise from critics and a loyal following during its first five seasons. Although the original network canceled it because of changing plans and new ownership, another network picked it up almost immediately for three more seasons. Ultimately, the show ended successfully with a finale that the creators had planned.

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

This science fiction series is set hundreds of years in the future, portraying a solar system about to erupt into civil war. When it first aired on cable, it was celebrated for its realistic science and intricate political plots. However, the show was cancelled after three seasons due to its expensive production. Luckily, a well-known tech billionaire who was a fan of the show stepped in and arranged for it to continue on a major streaming service. It went on to run for three more seasons, successfully adapting additional books from the original novel series.

‘Grimm’ (2011–2017)

This crime show blends police work with dark fantasy and mythology. It consistently drew viewers on Friday nights and helped the network hold onto an audience during a challenging time. Though ratings were still good compared to other shows, the series ended after six seasons. The showrunners received a shorter final season to finish all the supernatural storylines. Many fans believed the show had enough rich background to continue for several more years.

‘The Night Shift’ (2014–2017)

This hospital drama centers around doctors working the night shift in San Antonio. Surprisingly, it did very well with viewers during the summer, a time when most TV shows lose audience members. Despite consistently good ratings, the network canceled it after four seasons, and no other channel decided to continue the series. This left many storylines unresolved for fans, making it a memorable example of a summer success that ended too soon.

‘The Glades’ (2010–2013)

The show followed a retired Chicago detective who moved to Florida and spent his time solving crimes and playing golf. It was a huge hit, consistently ranking as the network’s most-watched original drama for several years. However, it was surprisingly cancelled after just four seasons, ending on a cliffhanger with the main character being shot. Fans were left without answers, and the network never publicly explained why they cancelled such a popular show.

‘Forever’ (2014–2015)

I was totally hooked on this show about an immortal doctor working as a medical examiner in New York. He spent the whole season trying to figure out how to finally stop being immortal, which was a really compelling storyline. It did really well overseas, but unfortunately, the network cancelled it after just one season because not enough people were watching it live in the US. The fans fought hard to save it – there were huge petitions and tons of buzz on social media – but it just wasn’t enough. Even though it’s off the air, it’s still a show a lot of us really love and wish had gotten more time.

‘Limitless’ (2015–2016)

This TV series is a continuation of the movie with the same title, centering on a man who becomes exceptionally intelligent. It quickly became one of the most popular new shows, consistently attracting viewers. However, the network couldn’t decide on a new direction for a second season and ultimately cancelled it. Despite dedicated fans, attempts to revive the show on a streaming platform were unsuccessful, leaving the story unresolved with many unanswered questions about the central drug.

‘Southland’ (2009–2013)

This realistic police drama follows the everyday lives of officers in the Los Angeles Police Department. Originally canceled after just one season, it was picked up by a cable network and continued for four more seasons, earning widespread critical acclaim. Despite its loyal fanbase and positive reviews, the show was canceled again, leaving viewers with an unresolved and memorable cliffhanger that continues to be discussed.

‘Designated Survivor’ (2016–2019)

After a devastating attack on Washington D.C., a relatively unknown cabinet member unexpectedly becomes President. The show started strong, attracting a large audience and maintaining good ratings for its first two seasons. However, the network cancelled it because production costs increased and creative differences arose. Although a streaming service revived the show for a third season, they decided not to renew it despite its popularity with viewers around the world. Throughout its run, the series tackled challenging political issues that connected with audiences.

‘Constantine’ (2014–2015)

This TV series, inspired by a well-known comic book, centers around a demon hunter haunted by his past. It originally aired on Fridays and quickly gained a loyal following among fans of the supernatural. Despite being cancelled after just thirteen episodes, viewers launched a large campaign to try and bring it back. Although the series didn’t return, the lead actor later reprised the role in other superhero shows, which gave fans some satisfaction and a sense of closure, feeling the original series was cut short.

‘My Name Is Earl’ (2005–2009)

This funny show centers around a former small-time thief trying to right his past mistakes. It was a major hit for the network, consistently drawing a large audience for several years. However, after four seasons, the show was cancelled due to a dispute between the studio and the network. The final episode left viewers with an unresolved cliffhanger, as the show wasn’t picked up by another network. Years later, the show’s creator finally shared how the story would have concluded in a different television project.

‘Jericho’ (2006–2008)

A small town in Kansas is left fighting for survival after nuclear attacks cripple the United States. The TV show about their struggles was initially cancelled after just one season, but a huge outpouring of fan support – literally tons of nuts sent to the network – brought it back for a second season. Although the second season performed well, it wasn’t profitable enough, leading to another cancellation. However, the story lived on through a popular series of comic books. The show is often remembered as one of the first examples of fans successfully campaigning to save a cancelled television series.

‘Pushing Daisies’ (2007–2009)

The show centered around a pie maker who could resurrect the dead, and he teamed up with a detective to crack murder cases. It was initially a hit with critics and viewers, but production stalled due to a writers strike, causing a significant delay and loss of popularity. Despite its striking visuals and dedicated fans, the network cancelled it after two seasons. However, it’s still remembered as one of the most visually unique shows ever broadcast on television.

‘Deadwood’ (2004–2006)

This popular western drama follows the development of a town in South Dakota during the 1800s. It was a critical and commercial success, winning many awards for its writing and performances. Despite its popularity, the show was unexpectedly cancelled after three seasons due to high production costs and difficult contract negotiations. Viewers had to wait more than ten years for a TV movie that finally wrapped up the storyline. Many consider it to be one of the best TV dramas of all time.

‘Ray Donovan’ (2013–2020)

This show followed a professional problem-solver who quietly resolved issues for wealthy and powerful people in Los Angeles and New York City. It consistently drew good ratings for the network over its seven seasons. However, it was surprisingly cancelled before the writers could finish the story they had planned, which upset both the actors and devoted fans. Eventually, the network greenlit a movie to give the characters the conclusion they deserved.

‘Mindhunter’ (2017–2019)

As a true crime buff, I was completely hooked on this series about FBI agents back in the late 70s who interviewed incarcerated serial killers – it was fascinating getting a glimpse into their minds. It really hit a nerve with critics and viewers loved it on the streaming service. Sadly, the director decided to move on to other things, and the show went on indefinite hiatus. Eventually, the high costs and the sheer amount of work involved led to its cancellation. But a lot of us fans are still holding out hope that it might come back someday and finish the planned five seasons – it really felt unfinished!

‘The OA’ (2016–2019)

A woman who disappeared seven years prior unexpectedly returns home, now able to see. The show became incredibly popular thanks to its innovative storytelling and distinctive visuals. Despite its success, it was cancelled after just two seasons, ending on a surprising and self-aware cliffhanger. Dedicated fans responded with protests and even paid for billboards, hoping to persuade the streaming platform to continue the series. The show’s creators have revealed they originally envisioned a five-season arc for the story.

‘Hannibal’ (2013–2015)

As a huge fan of psychological thrillers, I was completely captivated by this show. It really delved into the complex dynamic between a forensic psychiatrist and a serial killer he was treating. What struck me most was how beautifully it was made – the visuals were stunning, and the acting was phenomenal. It didn’t get huge ratings here in the States, but it built a massive following internationally and critics loved it. Sadly, the network pulled the plug after three seasons because of those domestic numbers. But the creator and the cast are really hoping to find a new home for it, and I’m crossing my fingers they do!

‘Arrested Development’ (2003–2019)

This show centers on a formerly wealthy family who fall on hard times, and the one level-headed person trying to hold them together. It won many awards and gained a dedicated fanbase during its initial three seasons. Despite critical acclaim, the network canceled it because not enough people were watching. Years later, a streaming service brought the show back for two more seasons, giving the creators a chance to complete the story they intended.

‘Veronica Mars’ (2004–2019)

This show follows a teenage detective working in a rich California community. While critics loved it, it didn’t attract a huge viewership when it first aired. After being cancelled, passionate fans raised enough money to create a movie that brought the series back. Years later, a streaming service produced a fourth season thanks to this continued support. The show is now celebrated as a prime example of how devoted fans can save a program they love.

‘Futurama’ (1999–2023)

A pizza delivery guy gets frozen and wakes up a thousand years later. Although the show initially did well, earning both viewers and awards, it was cancelled by its first network. It then gained a following through DVD sales and late-night animation programming, leading to several movies. Later, a cable channel brought it back for more seasons before cancelling it again. Now, thanks to its continued popularity, a streaming service has revived the show for a third time.

‘Police Squad!’ (1982)

This funny series playfully poked fun at typical crime shows with visual jokes and clever writing. Although critics liked it and it had respectable viewership, it was cancelled after just six episodes. A network executive famously said the show demanded too much focus from the audience. Surprisingly, it later spawned a very successful movie series with the same star, and it’s now remembered as a show that was remarkably innovative for its time.

‘Young Justice’ (2010–2022)

A team of young superheroes worked secretly to help the Justice League’s more experienced members. While the show was popular with both kids and adults, it was cancelled after only two seasons. Many believed the cancellation wasn’t due to low ratings, but because the related toys weren’t selling well. Fans strongly protested, and the series was eventually brought back on a streaming platform. It continued for two more seasons before going on another break.

‘Twin Peaks’ (1990–1991)

Okay, so I recently revisited this show, and wow, it’s a trip. It centers around an FBI agent landing in this incredibly bizarre town to solve the murder of the homecoming queen. When it first aired, it absolutely exploded – everyone was talking about it, and it really redefined what television could be. The second season stumbled a bit, though; they rushed to wrap up the main mystery, and ratings dropped. Sadly, the network pulled the plug, leaving us with a seriously frustrating cliffhanger. But, thankfully, over twenty-five years later, they brought it back for a limited series to finally give us some closure. It’s a fascinating watch, especially seeing how groundbreaking it was back in the day.

‘The Borgias’ (2011–2013)

This historical drama tells the story of the Borgia family’s climb to power within the Catholic Church during the Renaissance. It was an expensive show that consistently attracted viewers for its network. However, after three seasons, it was cancelled due to rising production costs. The show’s creator had envisioned four seasons to fully tell the family’s story, and a script for a concluding movie was later released to give fans some resolution.

‘Dark Matter’ (2015–2017)

Six strangers wake up aboard a damaged spaceship, completely unsure of their identities or how they arrived. The show, which ran for three seasons, was a hit on its network, attracting a large audience. However, it was unexpectedly cancelled, leaving viewers with many unresolved plot lines and questions about the characters. Despite the creator’s efforts, the series couldn’t find a new network, and it remains a beloved but unfinished story for many science fiction fans.

‘Ash vs Evil Dead’ (2015–2018)

The main character from a popular horror series is back to battle evil. While the show was a favorite among horror fans and consistently drew viewers on cable, it was canceled after three seasons because fewer people were watching on TV and because of illegal downloads. Soon after, the lead actor announced he was retiring from the role, which meant the show wouldn’t be continuing anywhere else.

‘The Mick’ (2017–2018)

After her sister and brother-in-law ran away, a woman with a rough mouth unexpectedly became the guardian of her three nieces and nephews. The funny show did well with viewers and helped boost the network’s Tuesday night schedule. However, it was cancelled after just two seasons, which came as a shock to many in the television industry and its audience. The series finale left a major storyline unresolved, and fans have been hoping for a continuation ever since to find out what happens next.

‘A.P. Bio’ (2018–2021)

A former philosophy professor, now fallen from grace, returns to his hometown to teach biology, and secretly uses his students to get back at people. The show was initially cancelled by the network that first aired it, but was quickly picked up by a streaming service. It gained a dedicated fanbase and was known for its distinctive humor. After four seasons, the show ended, even though fans were still eager for more. It was a pioneer in the trend of shows moving from traditional television to streaming platforms.

‘The Whispers’ (2015)

A mysterious force started making children do risky things in a quiet town. The TV show began with a lot of viewers and quickly became one of the summer’s biggest hits. However, after just thirteen episodes, it was cancelled because of problems with the actors’ contracts and delays in filming. This left fans on a major cliffhanger, just as they were learning what the real danger was. The show is still remembered for its promising start and its unexpected end.

‘Ringer’ (2011–2012)

This suspenseful thriller follows a woman who pretends to be her rich twin sister to hide from dangerous assassins. The show started strong, attracting a large audience and becoming a key part of the network’s advertising. Although it consistently drew viewers, the cost of making each episode was considered too high for the number of people watching. The series concluded with a cliffhanger, leaving several storylines unfinished, and fans are still debating where the story could have gone on social media.

Share your thoughts on these unexpected cancellations in the comments.

2026-02-09 00:19