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When you watch a TV show, you expect multiple seasons with intriguing plots and full-circle character development. However, show business doesn’t always work out that way. Even if you think a show is fantastic, network executives might say otherwise and pull the plug after a jaw-dropping cliffhanger. Here’s what you need to know about TV show cancellations in 2024 and why these decisions were made.
Notable TV Show Cancellations in 2024
2024 held promise for some programs but heartbreak for others. Here are seven TV show cancellations that may have surprised you this year.
1. “That 90s Show”
In the early 2000s, “That ’70s Show” was among the most popular teen sitcoms. Netflix tried to recapture the magic with “That ’90s Show,” but the nostalgia only lasted so long. In October 2024, Netflix canceled the program after two seasons to prioritize other projects. Despite the premature ending, “That ’90s Show” producers want to continue the show on another streaming service.
2. “So Help Me Todd”
CBS canceled numerous shows in 2024, and “So Help Me Todd” got the boot after just two seasons. Why didn’t the show have more time to air? While the show had respectable ratings — an average of 7.7 million viewers per episode — CBS canceled it to make room for other programs.
3. “CSI: Vegas”
“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” has been a staple for those who love science and forensics. The crimes depicted here are more severe than your stolen car or a candy store robbery. Unfortunately, “CSI: Vegas” is also among CBS’ TV show cancellations in 2024. Profitability was the primary reason behind the decision.
4. “Our Flag Means Death”
If romantic comedy sitcoms are your thing, “Our Flag Means Death” was the show for you. Unfortunately, the Rhys Darby-led show only lasted two seasons before MAX pulled the plug. The show received praise for its humor and creativity, but the writing was on the wall after the first season. Reportedly, it got a 40% budget cut due to poor viewership.
5. “The Acolyte”
Chances are you or someone you know is a Star Wars fan. The franchise has inspired fun video games, movies and TV shows, but it didn’t pan out with “The Acolyte.” The Disney+ show was a prequel to the Skywalker Saga and was supposed to be a hit. Unfortunately, low viewership and budget issues led to the show’s demise in 2024.
6. “KAOS”
“Kaos” had an intriguing premise depicting Greek and Roman mythological figures. With Jeff Goldblum as Zeus, what more could you ask for? Well, you could start by requesting more viewers, considering the show’s struggle to gain a substantial audience. Netflix canceled “Kaos” after only one season because it didn’t meet the service’s high standards for viewership.
7. “The Flight Attendant”
Sometimes, TV show cancellations occur because the creators want to end it early. With “The Flight Attendant,” Kaley Cuoco said it was time for the show to end despite airing just two seasons. Warner Brothers wanted a third season for their Max series, but it just wasn’t meant to be.
What Other TV Show Cancellations Happened in 2024?
News of your favorite show prematurely ending could happen anytime. What other cancellations happened this year? Here are a few you may have missed:
- “Parish”
- “Lucky 13”
- “NCIS: Hawai’i”
- “American Born Chinese”
- “Pretty Little Liars: Summer School”
Why Do Popular TV Shows Get Cancelled?
TV shows take you to other worlds without leaving the comfort of your living room. Unfortunately, networks can quickly bring you back to reality. There are seven key reasons for TV show cancellations in the modern era.
1. Low Viewership
Ultimately, it’s all about the ratings. If people aren’t watching a show, the production team can pack up and go home. Some streaming services have high standards for viewership, leading to premature cancellations. For instance, Netflix counts views when you watch 70% of an episode or movie. If not enough people reach this standard, they’ll pull the plug on the show.
2. Streaming Alternatives
TV shows tend to be exclusive to streaming services instead of conventional broadcast networks. This change affects the profits a show makes. Nowadays, TV show creators get most of their pay upfront each season instead of residuals. Therefore, shows become more expensive the longer they run.
3. Budget Cuts
Some productions do well with low budgets, but it’s harder to do with a TV show. Multiple episodes and long filming days can quickly add up for your crew. Networks could reduce the budget for a show if they’re strapped for money across the board or if the specific program is struggling. If TV executives tell you the cash is low, the ratings better be strong.
4. Network Priorities
In some cases, ratings or budgets aren’t the problem. Even if your show hits the mark, the network could push you aside for other priorities. This phenomenon is most visible with CBS and the TV show cancellations it has had in 2024. “So Help Me Todd” and other programs were doing fine, but the network wanted to head in different directions.
5. Executive Intervention
Popularity and ratings might not matter due to the network’s politics. Sometimes, an executive may intervene and voice their opinion on a show for better or worse. While it wasn’t a cancellation, you could see it on display with NBC and “The Office.” According to behind-the-scenes reporting, executives intervened and pushed Steve Carrell out of the show.
6. Contract Quarrels
TV shows are more than a fun side hustle for actors — it’s their livelihood. Rising stars in the industry want to get paid more money, which can lead to contract disputes with the network. How much are executives willing to invest in their acting leads? This decision could make or break a show’s future.
7. Controversies
The last thing you want is a controversy to bring your favorite TV showdown, but it occasionally happens. Incidents could occur on or off the set, prompting the network to make big decisions. For instance, the allegations surrounding Kevin Spacey led to “House of Cards” lasting just one more season on Netflix. The actor ultimately owed $1 million to the streaming service.
Making Sense of TV Show Cancellations in 2024
Some shows last 10 seasons or more, giving you a decade of laughter, tears and fun moments. However, your other favorites may only last one or two. Premature TV show cancellations are becoming more commonplace in the streaming era, so be sure to tune in and get your friends and family members hooked on your favorite programs, too.
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Author
Jack Shaw is a senior writer at Modded. Jack is an avid enthusiast for keeping up with personal health and enjoying nature. He has over five years of experience writing in the men's lifestyle niche, and has written extensively on topics of fitness, exploring the outdoors and men's interests. His writings have been featured in SportsEd TV, Love Inc., and Offroad Xtreme among many more publications.
