This Canceled ABC Hit Was Almost Saved by Netflix, but All Fans’ Efforts Failed
Not every series can be saved.
While it has been nearly a year since the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes ended, many networks are still suffering the financial consequences of the delays caused by those strikes. And unfortunately, the more money the studios lose, the less willing they are to renew even the most successful shows. That is why 2024 has already seen so many cancellations.
Even though ABC is still doing relatively well compared to other networks, some shows have had to go. Grey's Anatomy spin-off Station 19 was canceled after 7 seasons, and although fans fought for its renewal, their efforts were fruitless.
Why Was Station 19 Canceled?
Station 19 was ABC's response to the growing popularity of firefighting procedurals on all the other major cable networks, and it ended up being extremely successful. Viewers fell in love with the show's characters, and its loose tie-in with Grey's Anatomy was just enough to get it a first group of die-hard fans.
WGA and SAG AFTRA strikes aside, many viewers are connecting the dots between ABC's acquisition of Fox's 911 and the cancellation of Station 19. There would be no need for two similar procedurals on one network, so many believe ABC simply chose its new show over the 2018 original. However, there is no way to confirm or deny this.
What was confirmed by Station 19 actress Stefania Spampinato during the fan convention, however, is that the show was almost picked up by Netflix as a result of the extensive #SaveStation19 social media campaign. However, the deal hasn't been finalized and the show remains canceled for now.
While many fans would have found such news more discouraging than hopeful, the loyal fanbase of a spinoff that ended up being a beautiful story in its own right has taken it as a sign that the fight is far from over. After all, if Grey's Anatomy could live for more than two decades and still go on, Station 19, with a far stronger plot, should get the same treatment.
If you're a fan of Station 19 and still have hope that the show will be picked up and saved by a network, be sure to voice your opinion on social media and join the movement. And if you're just nostalgic and want to give the show another chance, be sure to stream Station 19 on Hulu.