The End of an Era: TV Shows That Ended in 2023

The Legacy of Finales

2023 saw plenty of great TV shows coming to an end, but the best ones will remain popular for years to come. Just because a show has ended doesn't mean that it will be forgotten about, and some show's can even become more successful years later thanks to streaming platforms. Other shows have such brilliant rewatch potential that their audiences won't tire of them for a long time, even though there are no new episodes being produced. After a show airs its finale, it can be appraised in its entirety. A finale is a key part of any show, and if a long story manages to stick the landing, it can grow in popularity. If a show produces a memorable ending, it can be enjoyable to go back and watch the show from its beginning to see the whole story unfolding, knowing what is ultimately going to happen to the characters. These great shows may have ended in 2023, but their appeal will ensure that they stay just as popular for many years.

Archer, Ray, Zara and Pam in Archer season 14

The year 2023 marked the conclusion of several iconic TV shows, each leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. From spy spoofs to dark small-town dramas, these shows have captivated audiences for years, and their legacies are set to endure long after their final episodes have aired. As the era of these beloved series comes to a close, it's an opportune moment to reflect on their significance and the mark they have left on the television landscape.

Jughead Betty Kevin Archie and Veronica in Riverdale season 2

Iconic Endings and Memorable Legacies

Archer, after 14 seasons of genre-spoofing spy shenanigans, finally ended in 2023. The show grew from its roots as a mid-century style James Bond parody, filled with ridiculous gadgets and nefarious villains, into a story about running a business in the 21st Century. In the middle of Archer’s run, the main character spent three seasons in a coma, allowing for hilarious takes on film noir, sci-fi thrillers, and pulp fiction adventures. This means that Archer’s best episodes vary in setting and genre, but the show’s fast-talking sense of humor remains a constant.

Riverdale, a darker take on the popular Archie comics, concluded its 7-season run in 2023. The show's dark and mysterious small-town drama took viewers on a journey filled with murder mysteries, escalating stakes, and supernatural elements. Riverdale's unique spin on the timeless characters from the Archie comics captivated audiences and left a memorable legacy in the world of television.

Star Trek: Picard, featuring Patrick Stewart reprising his iconic role as Jean-Luc Picard, wrapped up its 3-season adventure in 2023. The show's mix of classic Star Trek characters and fresh new adventures delighted fans and left a lasting impact on the sci-fi genre.

Patrick Stewart as Jean-Luc Picard in the finale of Star Trek: Picard

Unforgettable Characters and Compelling Stories

Disenchantment, created by Matt Groening, concluded its 5-season run in 2023. Set in a medieval land teeming with mythological beasts and dark magic, Disenchantment brought Groening's winning formula to a new setting and captivated audiences with its serialized story and compelling mysteries. The show's unique blend of humor and fantasy has ensured its place in the hearts of fans for years to come.

Characters on a boat in Disenchantment season 5 teaser trailer

Barry, featuring Bill Hader as a hitman who catches the acting bug, concluded its 4-season run in 2023. The show's blend of uproarious comedy and propulsive action sequences, coupled with an innovative storyline, captivated audiences and left a memorable legacy in the world of television.

Barry with Gene Cousineau

Ted Lasso, starring Jason Sudeikis as a Kansas football coach who takes on coaching soccer in England’s Premier League, concluded its 3-season run in 2023. The show's positive outlook on life, heartwarming ensemble cast, and uplifting storyline have made it a fan favorite and ensured its place as a timeless classic in the world of television.

Brett Goldstein as Roy frowning next to Jason Sudeikis as Ted smiling in Ted Lasso