- Several cancelled TV shows were given a second chance after fans and producers appealed for their renewal.
- TV shows such as Timeless, Family Guy, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine were saved from complete cancellation due to fans’ dedication and support.
- The general public’s role in saving their favourite shows is significant and cannot be ignored when discussing television culture.
The television industry can be a cruel and ruthless environment, with shows constantly being cancelled and replaced to keep viewers engaged. However, there are instances where devoted fan bases and determined producers have come together to save a show from cancellation, effectively reversing the decision of network executives. Among these TV saviors are a number of popular shows that defied the odds and were given a second chance.
One such example is the time travel drama Timeless, which was axed by NBC just before its season finale in 2017. Fans of the show mobilized on social media, using hashtag #SaveTimeless to express their outrage. Meanwhile, show creators Eric Kripke and Shawn Ryan’s relentless appeals resonated with the network, leading NBC to renew Timeless for a shortened 10-episode second season merely three days after cancelling it.
Family Guy, the animated sitcom created by Seth MacFarlane, faced a similar fate in 2000 when it was initially cancelled by Fox. Unwavering fan support in purchasing DVDs, and an impressive performance in syndication, prompted Fox to revive the series in 2005. Since then, the show has become a staple of pop culture and continues to air regularly, boasting over 350 episodes.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine, a cop comedy starring Andy Samberg, was dropped by Fox after five seasons, much to the disappointment of its loyal fan base. The news sparked an outcry on social media, with celebrities such as Lin-Manuel Miranda and Mark Hamill showing their support. Fortunately, their efforts paid off, as NBC picked up the show for a sixth season within 31 hours of Fox’s cancellation announcement.
These examples highlight the power of the general public in shaping television culture, as their passion and dedication can lead to the resurrection of beloved shows. Network executives would be wise to recognize and account for this influence when making decisions on what programs to greenlight or cancel in the future.