There’s nothing worse than getting completely into a TV show, growing to love the characters and their storylines… and then being left with a cliffhanger that is never answered. A cancellation is one of the worst fates for a TV show, especially when the plot had so much potential.
These are 5 TV shows that were canceled too early.
1. Gilligan’s Island (1964–1967)
As a show that has remained so popular in the 60 years since its debut, Gilligan’s Islandwas, ironically, not that popular in its early years. The series follows a group of seven people who are stranded on an uncharted island and attempt to escape (multiple times). The cast and crew expected a renewal after the third season, so the sitcom ended with the characters still stuck on the island. When it was canceled, the storylines were still ongoing, although there were three reunion films in the late 1970s and early 1980s that returned them to civilization.
Regard Gilligan’s Island now on Tubi!
2. Twin Peaks (1990–1991)
In contrast to many other canceled series, Twin Peaks died due to a mistake by ABC’s CEO Bob Iger. The show was immensely popular upon its release in 1990, as fans tuned in to find out what happened to Laura Palmer. Writer David Lynch wanted to drag out this mystery and not reveal the killer, at least not until the finale. But Iger argued that fans should know the answer, and ultimately prevailed.
Against Lynch’s advice, the killer was revealed in the middle of Season 2, which ultimately led to a ratings collapse. Lynch tried to win back audiences with an incredible Season 2 finale, but it wasn’t enough – Twin Peaks was canceled. This series also returned in the form of a feature film in 1992 and a revival series in 2017.
Regard Twin Peaks now on Prime Video!
3. Roswell (1999–2002)
Roswell debuted amidst many shows revolving around otherworldly beings such as aliens and witches, which gave the series a loyal fan base. Although it may not have been as iconic as series like Charmed And Buffy the Vampire Slayerthis 1999 show was still a hit. Roswell Like many other 90s series, it was full of drama and relationships, but had the added feature of three alien hybrids living in the world as normal teenagers.
While the show was able to wrap up the characters’ storylines before it was canceled, the ending was a bit rushed and there was room for further development. But as many know, TV cancellations know no bounds.
Regard Roswell now on Hulu!
4. Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000)
Today it is considered a cult classic. Freaks and Geeks wasn’t always so popular. Due to a poor time slot on NBC (Saturday nights at 8 p.m.), the show never attracted many viewers. It also aired only sporadically due to the World Series – which aired on the same network – and the holidays, which caused the show to be canceled for a few weeks.
Freaks and Geeks was eventually canceled after only 12 of its 18 episodes aired, but it has built a growing fan base over the years. Because it was the launching pad for major actors like James Franco, Jason Segel, and Linda Cardellini, fans rewatch the stars’ first television role over and over again.
Regard Freaks and Geeks now on Hulu!
5. The OK (2003–2007)
This teen drama was a huge hit when it was released. Similar to Beverly Hills, 90210This 2003 series captivated audiences with its thrilling drama and toxic relationships, which is why everyone was upset when The OK was cancelled prematurely.
Due to declining ratings following the death of main character Marissa Cooper (played by Mischa Barton), the series was canceled after the fourth season. Ryan (Ben McKenzie) breaks up with Marissa and finds a new girl, while everyone else starts a new chapter in their lives. Although there was a happy ending for the characters, fans were disappointed that they didn’t get to see what else was in store for the Orange County teens.
Regard The OK now on Max!
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