The Untold Story Behind the End of Bones: What Really Led to Season 12's Finale?

Bones, one of the most popular procedural dramas to debut in recent decades, concluded after its twelfth season. Like other crime series, Bones captivated viewers with its weekly mysteries, adding a scientific touch with its focus on forensics. Moreover, the undeniable chemistry between Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz, who portrayed Dr. Temperance Brennan and Special Agent Seeley Booth respectively, breathed life into their characters and provided a fresh and captivating appeal. The evolution of their on-screen friendship into a romantic relationship added further intrigue. With its roots in Kathy Reichs' Temperance Brennan novels, Bones had an existing fanbase and a wealth of source material to draw inspiration from. With loyal viewers, charismatic leads, and a literary foundation, it is not surprising that the show enjoyed a lengthy run.

Fox Canceled Bones After Season 12

Even though good TV shows eventually have to come to an end, Bones concluded its 12-season run on a less than ideal note. Instead of going out on its own terms, Fox made the decision to cancel the procedural drama after its twelfth season. Creator Hart Hanson expressed his disappointment, stating that it wasn't their choice to end the show. Bones had experienced declining ratings for several seasons leading up to its cancellation. In its eleventh season, the show averaged 7.27 million viewers, and in its final season, it averaged 5.54 million viewers, compared to the series-high average of 11.57 million viewers in season six.

In addition to the show's declining ratings, conflicts between Fox and the creative team of Bones may have contributed to its ultimate ending. In 2015, various parties, including actors Deschanel and Boreanaz, author Reichs, and executive producer Barry Josephson, filed lawsuits against Fox, alleging that they had not been adequately compensated for the success of the show. An arbitrator determined that Fox owed $179 million in damages, but a judge later overturned this decision. On a smaller scale, there were also tensions regarding Bones' time slot on Fox. Hanson recalled feeling frustrated and annoyed at the frequent changes in the show's schedule.

Will A Bones Reunion Ever Happen?

Although Bones was cancelled after its twelfth season, the longevity of the well-received procedural made it a success. The show continues to be popular today, attracting new fans through its availability on streaming platforms like Hulu and Prime Video. Given its enduring popularity, there is potential for a Bones revival. While the series finale tied up loose ends, a comeback would provide viewers with further closure. Hanson, the show's creator, recently expressed interest in a reunion, stating that he would return if both lead actors reprised their roles. Fortunately, Deschanel and Boreanaz appear open to the idea. Boreanaz even mentioned considering a Bones revival, while debunking hopes for an Angel comeback. Likewise, Deschanel addressed the possibility optimistically, saying "never say never." Although it may take some time before any concrete plans are made, these updates offer hope that Bones may have the opportunity to conclude on its own terms.

Source: Variety, The Los Angeles Times