The Surprising TV Shows That Defied Expectations After Season 1

Summary

Many TV series struggle to maintain the quality of their first season, losing their initial charm due to cast changes and confusing plots.

Shows such as Glee and Heroes should have concluded following their initial successful seasons, as their quality gradually deteriorated and their viewership declined.

Certain series like Russian Doll and Big Little Lies should have wrapped up after their debut seasons, as subsequent seasons were unable to replicate the success achieved by the original one.

Many TV series start with an enticing first season but gradually decline with each subsequent installment. In fact, some argue that certain shows didn't need any more content after their initial season. While there are unfortunate cases of brilliant shows ending prematurely, there are also those that have continued for too long, potentially losing the interest of viewers.

When a series achieves success, there is always a demand for additional seasons that live up to the initial hype. However, there is also a pressure to know when to gracefully conclude. Some shows deviate significantly from their first season, and audiences may feel relieved when the final episode eventually airs. There are even series that perhaps should have concluded after just one season.

10 Glee (2009-2015)

9 Heroes (2006-2010)

Glee, once hailed as a highly enjoyable show featuring relatable characters and impressive musical renditions, has undergone a significant transformation in its reputation. The series is now primarily associated with numerous scandals, a controversial cast, and problematic production. In its first season, Glee captivated audiences with its portrayal of the ups and downs of high school life intertwined with music. However, as the show progressed, it gradually lost its shine, leading to a decline in viewership due to changes in the cast, convoluted storylines, and inconsistent character development. Even Ryan Murphy, the creator of Glee, eventually acknowledged that the series should have concluded after the tragic passing of Cory Monteith in 2013. By the time the final episode aired, the once-thriving show had become a mere shadow of its former self.

In 2006, when Heroes made its debut on NBC, it became an instant hit, swiftly climbing the ranks to become one of the network's most successful shows in history. The storyline revolved around a diverse group of individuals who unexpectedly discovered their extraordinary abilities and united to avert impending disasters. The inaugural season garnered wide acclaim from critics, who commended its impeccable filmmaking techniques, seamless pacing, and an ensemble cast that was nothing short of perfect.

8 Under the Dome (2013-2015)

The decline in success for Heroes became evident in season 2, as the series was unable to maintain the momentum of its highly acclaimed first season. A strike during production forced the writers to resort to reusing previous storylines, resulting in a convoluted web of confusing plots and inconsistencies. Subsequently, in 2010, NBC made the decision to cancel the show, citing a significant decrease in ratings and disappointment among fans.

The TV series Under the Dome was based on Stephen King's 2009 novel. While the first season remained true to the original story, showcasing the isolation of Chester's Mill due to an impenetrable dome, the subsequent two seasons suffered a significant decline in viewership. This decline could be attributed to the deviation from the source material and the loss of the enchantment that made the first season a success. Even Stephen King himself admitted that the show veered off track after the initial season and became unwatchable for him. In an interview with TV Line, executive producer Neal Baer stated that they could have continued with a fourth season, but it was deemed unnecessary and not truly desired.

7 Prison Break (2005-2017)

Prison Break captivated viewers by taking them inside the walls of Fox River State Penitentiary, where brothers Lincoln and Michael hatched an intricate plan to break free from incarceration. Originally hailed as one of Fox's finest creations, the first season garnered widespread acclaim. However, the series began its gradual decline right after the premiere of the second season. Once the initial story of Prison Break reached its conclusion, there remained little material to effectively build upon. Consequently, the plot shifted its focus towards interpersonal conflicts, a choice that failed to resonate with both the audience and critics. Ultimately, in 2020, Prison Break bid farewell as its two leading actors, Dominic Purcell and Wentworth Miller, chose not to return for a sixth season.

6 Russian Doll (2019-present)

Russian Doll, which premiered on Netflix in 2019, received high praise for its captivating storyline, seamless tonal shifts, and skilled ensemble cast. Starring Natasha Lyonne, the series revolves around Nadia, who becomes trapped in a time loop during her 36th birthday celebration. She desperately searches for an escape while repeatedly experiencing death. In the conclusion of the first season, Nadia and her friend Alan successfully repair their timelines, ultimately finding their way back to their respective lives.

5 Scream Queens (2015-2016)

The first season of Russian Doll concluded with a powerful finale, leaving little room for a second season. However, the second season failed to impress, presenting recycled ideas and unnecessary alterations to Nadia's narrative. Critics found the time loop storyline in Season 2 to be confusing, which intensified the disappointment. As a result, many argue that a third season of Russian Doll is superfluous and that Nadia's journey should have reached its natural conclusion in the initial season.

Debuting in 2015, Scream Queens, the black slasher comedy created by Ryan Murphy, garnered immense popularity among viewers. The initial season revolved around the Kappa Kappa Tau sorority, which became the prime target of a notorious murderer called the Red Devil. This show, known for its exceptional cast, clever comebacks, and perfect blend of humor and suspense, became an indulgent pleasure for many. While the first season concluded on a high note with the revelation of the Red Devil's true identity, the second season did not receive the same fortunate fate.

Season 2 of Scream Queens essentially replicated the storyline from the first season, albeit with a shift in setting from a university campus to a hospital. Due to its reduced number of comedic moments, which were a major factor in the first season's success, many viewers opted out of watching the second season. In light of Ryan Murphy's intentions for a third season, there is now widespread doubt as to whether the show's continuation is still desired by anyone.

4 13 Reasons Why (2017-2020)

Similar to Under the Dome, 13 Reasons Why also drew inspiration from a popular novel, this time penned by Jay Asher. The series delves into the life of high school student Clay Jensen, who grapples with the aftermath of Hannah Baker's suicide and learns about her motivations through a series of cassette tapes. The initial season sparked controversy due to its unflinching portrayal of violence, suicide, and sexual assault; however, it garnered praise for its compelling performances, thought-provoking themes, and insightful portrayal of mental health issues and bullying.

The issue was that

3 Big Little Lies (2017-2019)

, which resulted in a decline in viewership. This ultimately led to Netflix canceling the show after season 4. Like many others, 13 Reasons Why should have concluded when the book ended.

Big Little Lies, the television series based on Liane Moriarty's novel, follows a murder mystery investigation that unfolds among five women residing in Monterey, California. Featuring a star-studded cast including Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Shailene Woodley, the show exceeded expectations and achieved remarkable success. It garnered eight Emmy Awards and four Golden Globes in 2017, establishing itself as one of the greatest HBO series of all time.

Originally promoted as a mini-series, HBO opted to extend the show for a second season in an attempt to capitalize on its initial success. Despite enlisting renowned actors like Meryl Streep to join the cast, the second season of Big Little Lies failed to replicate the excitement of the first, ultimately prompting HBO to permanently conclude the series in 2019.

2 Riverdale (2017-2023)

Riverdale made its debut on Netflix in 2017, immersing viewers in the captivating world of Archie Comics. With its enticing blend of teenage drama, mysterious elements, and romantic storylines, the show quickly became a fan favorite. The first season delved into the enigmatic murder of Jason Blossom, showcasing a remarkable cast, an addictive plot, and a unique, darker interpretation of the beloved Archie Comics and its iconic characters. As a result, it skyrocketed to become one of the most beloved and highly-watched series in Netflix history.

1 Lost (2004-2010)

As the show progressed, however, audience interest waned due to the recurring melodrama, uninspiring direction, and peculiar storylines. Subsequent seasons deviated greatly from the captivating mystery that initially captivated viewers in the first season. Riverdale ultimately concluded its run after seven seasons in 2023, but some critics argue that it should have concluded as early as season 1.

Lost commenced as an enthralling enigma series, chronicling the endeavors of plane crash survivors stranded on an uninhabited island as they grapple for survival. The initial narrative, enriched with captivating flashbacks and a cast of fascinating characters, promptly captivated its audience, garnering an average of 16 million viewers per episode. Renowned by many as one of the most exceptional television series of all time, Lost holds a revered place in the annals of entertainment.

Lost took a downward spiral after its first season, delving into a convoluted and bewildering mix of time travel, perplexing mysteries, and unnecessarily complicated storylines. The straightforward yet engrossing drama that initially captivated viewers was completely lost by the time the series came to an end in 2010. Despite having a devoted fan base, it is widely acknowledged that Lost veered too far away from its humble beginnings, resulting in a lackluster finale rather than a thrilling culmination.