8 TV Shows Canceled Too Early, But Still Worth Watching
Sometimes studios don’t choose their renewals wisely.
It can be extremely disappointing to get into a show only to have it canceled. But the more competition there is among TV networks, streaming platforms and production companies, the harder they are on shows that don't seem to bring in nearly enough viewers to be considered profitable.
Unfortunately, many great TV shows are overlooked today simply because they're cut too early. So, if you are willing to brace yourself and deal with the fact that you may never know the true finale, here are 8 amazing series that are worth every minute spent in front of the TV.
Firefly ( 2002-2003)
It's hard to say that the cancellation was unjustified, as Firefly premiered to very low ratings. However, it wasn't even given a chance to intrigue viewers, as the show was misadvertised and the network decided to air episodes out of order, making it difficult for viewers to get into the story. Firefly's entire run was a mess.
Sense8 (2015-2018)
Sense8 was way ahead of its time, which is why it was canceled. Today, a sci-fi concept like this would have been incredibly popular and worth every penny Netflix had to spend on it. But back in 2015, the production seemed too complicated and expensive, considering that the show had to be filmed in several international locations.
GLOW (2017-2018)
Those looking for a show with a strong and funny female protagonist will love GLOW, but will be disappointed that the show was canceled after only 3 seasons. It had everything a Netflix series needs to succeed, from the story of camaraderie and friendship to the competitive element of professional wrestling, and still failed to impress viewers.
Shadow and Bone (2021-2023)
Based on two cycles of novels by Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone was a questionable mix of both stories happening simultaneously. Even though the most loyal book fans didn't like the premise, they were excited to get to their favorite parts and see their favorite characters shine, but that never happened. Instead, the series was canceled.
Deadwood (2004-2006)
Another big loss from the 2000s is Deadwood, the show that would have made Yellowstone look desolate if it were on the air today. It would also get much more screen time and be renewed for more seasons, given the vibrant story and Western setting that brought many fans of the genre to their screens. Deadwood deserves much better.
Mindhunter ( 2017-2019)
While there are many great crime shows, Mindhunter has always stood on its own. Thanks to David Fincher's dedication to the project, many viewers were hoping and praying for Mindhunter to return even after the show ended in 2019. While Fincher's confirmation that the show is over brought some closure, it didn't make the goodbye any easier.
A League of Their Own (2022)
Though Prime Video has brought viewers many great TV shows and series, A League of Their Own was the network's biggest misstep. The show touched the souls of many viewers and did justice to the '90s original, yet fell victim to the ugly battle that producers and executives waged during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Lockwood & Co. (2023)
Looking back at the case of Shadow and Bone, Lockwood & Co. falls into the same category. Another young adult fantasy show that had an amazing critical response and a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes was canceled after only one season because it did not attract enough viewers to qualify for renewal.