Untimely Demise: TV Shows Cut Short - What Went Wrong with ‘Pitch,’ ‘The Newsroom’ and More

Many shows ended prematurely, leaving fans disappointed and upset. Whether it was an unresolved cliffhanger or a lack of development for certain characters, these shows deserved better. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, Pitch, a drama centered around the first female pitcher in the MLB, was not renewed for a second season by Fox in 2017. The cast, including star Mark-Paul Gosselaar, expressed their surprise and optimism for its potential return in interviews.

The show garnered such a strong fan following that when it premiered on Hulu in May 2020, the popular streaming platform released a new promo featuring Gosselaar and Kylie Bunbury (who portrayed star athlete Ginny Baker) jokingly expressing their eagerness to return.

Amidst the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, Julie and the Phantoms made its debut in 2020 and quickly captured the hearts of viewers. The series centers around Julie (played by Madison Reyes) as she rediscovers her passion for music with the aid of three ghostly boys from the 1990s, portrayed by Charlie Gillespie, Owen Joyner, and Jeremy Shada. Together, they embark on a mission to unravel their unresolved objectives.

You have successfully subscribed.

Subscribe to newsletters

Subscribe

By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from USWeekly

Check our latest news in Google News

Follow Us

Check our latest news in Apple News

Follow Us

"I hope to convey to the fans that their relentless dedication will result in Julie's return," expressed executive producer Kenny Ortega to Deadline in March 2022. "What I can truly express is the immense significance that this endeavor holds for all of us involved in creating the show, as well as our adoration and profound gratitude for the unwavering enthusiasm they have exhibited towards this project."

Browse through the following gallery for additional prematurely concluded shows:

Credit: NBC; Getty Images; Cliff Lipson/CBS; Mark Seliger/NBC

TV Shows Gone Too Soon: 'Pitch,' 'The Newsroom' and More

Numerous shows met an unjust fizzle, leaving viewers with unresolved suspense or underdeveloped characters. Despite attributing the cancellations to lackluster ratings, financial constraints, and overcrowded schedules, the networks can never absolve themselves of our eternal resentment!

In 2017, Fox declined to renew Pitch, a drama series centered around the first female pitcher in the MLB, for a second season, despite receiving highly positive reviews from critics. Lead actor Mark-Paul Gosselaar expressed in several interviews that the cast was completely surprised by this decision and remains optimistic for a potential future return of the show.

Such was the adoration of fans towards the series that when it became available on Hulu in May 2020, the popular streaming platform even released a new promotional video featuring Gosselaar and Kylie Bunbury (who portrayed star athlete Ginny Baker) joking about their eagerness to return to the show.

Debuting in 2020 during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, Julie and the Phantoms quickly became a fan favorite. The series revolves around Julie, played by Madison Reyes, as she rediscovers her passion for music with the assistance of three ghost boys from the 1990s, portrayed by Charlie Gillespie, Owen Joyner, and Jeremy Shada. These boys are determined to uncover their unresolved affairs. Despite winning three Daytime Emmy Awards in 2021, Netflix decided to cancel the show after its first season. This decision sparked an uproar among fans, leading to a worldwide campaign in the hopes of convincing the streaming service to revive the project. Thanks to this effort, the show climbed to the top spot on Netflix in various countries.

“I hope I could assure the fans that their immense dedication will result in Julie's return," stated executive producer Kenny Ortega to Deadline in March 2022. "However, the only thing I can truly express is the significance of their contributions to everyone involved in the production, and how much we adore and appreciate their unwavering support towards the project."

Explore the following gallery for a collection of prematurely ended shows:

Credit: Eike Schroter/Netflix

Julie and the Phantoms (2020)

Julie and the Phantoms had a limited run of just one season, consisting of nine short episodes, before Netflix decided to cancel it. Based on the Brazilian show Julie e os Fantasmas, this series follows Julie, a teenage girl portrayed by Reyes, as she rediscovers her love for music and life with the help of three ghost boys from the 90s, played by Gillespie, Joyner, and Shada. These boys return to earth under mysterious circumstances. While Julie navigates the grief of losing her mother, the boys strive to fulfill their unfinished business and come to terms with their pasts, ultimately forming the band they were destined to become. The show showcases themes of friendship, humor, and captivating music and truly deserved the opportunity to share its story in more seasons.

Credit: The CW

Credit: Prime Video

Panic (2021)

Prime Video's Panic, based on the book series with the same title, revolves around a group of graduating high school students in a small Texas town. Each summer, they engage in a perilous game, risking it all for a chance to win a substantial amount of money. This game forces them to confront not only their classmates but also their deepest fears. While some characters find closure in the season 1 finale, there is a significant cliffhanger that suggests the game is about to escalate into something even grander and more treacherous for all involved.

Credit: Miller Mobley/The CW

Nancy Drew (2019-2023)

The mystery drama, based on the book series penned by Carolyn Keene, was canceled in October 2022 following Nexstar's acquisition of The CW.

Starting my career as a tiny fraction of Nancy Drew's enduring legacy has been an immense pleasure. It has been a privilege to step into her shoes, finding inspiration in her character and evolving alongside her," said Kennedy McMann, who portrayed the lead role. "I wish our incredible fans could experience the unwavering heart and dedication of our crew, which has been ever-present both on and off the screen since day one. You are an integral part of this extraordinary show, as much as we are. Thank you, thank you, thank you for the boundless passion and kindness that you have shared with me and with one another."

Credit: Gregory Pace/Shutterstock

Tom Swift (2022-2022)

The CW canceled the Nancy Drew spinoff after its one-season run. Tom Swift featured Tian Richards, Ashleigh Murray, Marquise Vilsón, Albert Mwangi, and April Parker Jones.

Credit: Brian Douglas/Netflix

First Kill (2022-2022)

Two months after its release on Netflix, First Kill faced cancellation, which sparked backlash online. Supporters of the supernatural series, centered around the illicit romance between a vampire and a vampire hunter, have persistently advocated for its renewal.

Credit: Kane Skennar/Amazon Prime Video

The Wilds (2020-2022)

The second season of The Wilds, a Prime Video series, left audiences on the edge of their seats with a shocking conclusion. Starring Sophia Ali, Reign Edwards, Shannon Berry, Jenna Clause, Mia Healey, Helena Howard, Erana James, and Sarah Pidgeon, the talented cast kept viewers captivated. To amp up the excitement, Season 2 introduced new additions to the cast, including Zack Calderon, Aidan Laprete, Nicholas Coombe, Charles Alexander, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Reed Shannon, Tanner Ray Rook, and Alex Fitzalan.

Credit: Michael Parmelee/FX/Kobal/Shutterstock

Pose (2018-2021)

The original cast and crew of the show comprised more than 140 members who identified as trans or LGBTQ.

"In June 2018, Murphy shared with us that he wanted to introduce a fresh set of individuals," he exclusively revealed. "During my early years in the industry, it was predominantly older white males who held positions of power. I am focused on utilizing my influence to uplift and support others."

Credit: Greg Gayne/NBC

Superstore (2015-2021)

NBC announced in December 2020 that the sitcom would end with its sixth season. The news came after the departure of series lead America Ferrera.

Credit: Bob Mahoney/HBO/WARNERMEDIA

The crime drama, which is based on Stephen King's novel of the same name, was cancelled by HBO in November 2020 after only one season. Starring Cynthia Erivo, Jason Bateman, and Ben Mendelson, the series premiered in January 2020. Despite HBO's decision, MRC studio is actively seeking a new platform to broadcast the show's second season, as per Deadline.

The Outsider (2020)

Credit: ABC/Brian Bowen Smith

Single Parents (2018-2020)

In May 2020, ABC announced that they would be pulling the plug on the sitcom starring Taran Killam, Leighton Meester and Brad Garrett after two seasons. 

Credit: Matthias Clamer/ABC

Stumptown (2019-2020)

Despite a season 2 renewal, the Cobie Smulders-led drama was canceled by ABC in September 2020 after one season due to the COVID-19 crisis. 

Credit: (ABC/Nino Munoz)

The Baker and the Beauty (2020)

Despite decent ratings, ABC did not renew the drama, which followed Victor Rasuk's Daniel Garcia, a baker who falls in love with a famous model, Noa Hamilton (Kelley).

Credit: Phillip Caruso/Hulu

High Fidelity (2020)

The Society (2019)

The Society, a beloved show among Netflix viewers, faced an unfortunate fate as it was abruptly canceled after a single season. This unforeseen decision was made public by the streaming giant in August 2020, also extending its impact to another popular teen thriller called I Am Not Okay With This, which had previously received a renewal but was ultimately discontinued.

"We regretfully announce that we will not be proceeding with the second seasons of The Society and I Am Not Okay With This," stated Netflix. "It is disheartening to have to make this decision as it is a consequence of the challenges posed by COVID. We want to express our gratitude to the incredible team behind these shows, including Jonathan Entwistle, Christy Hall, Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, Dan Cohen, and Josh Barry from 21 Laps Entertainment for their remarkable work on I Am Not Okay With This; as well as Chris Keyser, Marc Webb, and Pavlina Hatoupis for their contributions to The Society. We are also immensely thankful to the dedicated writers, casts, and crews who have devoted their time and effort in bringing these shows to life for our global members."

Credit: Ursula Coyote/Netflix

Daybreak (2019-2019)

The post-apocalyptic drama show, based on Brian Ralph's comic series, featured a talented cast including Colin Ford, Alyvia Alyn Lind, Sophie Simnett, Austin Crute, Cody Kearsley, Jeanté Godlock, Gregory Kasyan, Krysta Rodriguez, and Matthew Broderick.

Unfortunately, Netflix chose not to renew the series after its first season. In a statement from co-creator Aron Coleite in December 2019, it was revealed, "We learned last week that Daybreak will not be returning for a second season. We apologize for not being able to share this news with you sooner but we are also grateful for the opportunity to have interacted with all of you during these live tweet sessions."

He continued by expressing his gratitude, saying, "Thank you for embracing our ideas, for pushing the boundaries in your unique and extraordinary manners, and for being an integral part of both this production and our journey throughout. No one feels the sadness and disappointment more deeply than we do that we are unable to further share this incredible adventure with you. However, we remain profoundly thankful for the opportunity to have brought it this far."

Credit: Liz Von Hoene/SHOWTIME

On Becoming a God in Central Florida (2019)

Showtime initially renewed "On Becoming a God in Central Florida" for a second season, but ultimately, due to the COVID-19 crisis, they made the decision to cancel the show in October 2020. In a statement, Showtime explained that the pandemic hindered their ability to continue production on the new season. Despite their efforts to bring the cast and crew together for a second season, it became impossible. Therefore, it is with deep regret that Showtime announced the show's cancellation.

The announcement expressed gratitude towards star and executive producer Kirsten Dunst, creators Robert Funke and Matt Lusky, showrunner Esta Spalding, and their fellow executive producers George Clooney, Grant Heslov, and Charlie McDowell. Additionally, heartfelt appreciation was extended to the outstanding cast and crew, as well as to our valuable partners at Sony Pictures Television.

Credit: ABC

Grand Hotel (2019)

After one summer of Grand Hotel, ABC announced they were not renewing the soapy series, which starred Demián Bichir, Roselyn Sanchez, Lincoln Younes and Bryan Craig.

Credit: Erica Parise/Netflix

GLOW (2017-2019)

The Netflix series GLOW, featuring Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin, and Marc Maron, was canceled in October 2020 after three seasons. Initially, the streaming giant had approved a fourth and final season, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they reversed their decision.

In a statement to Deadline, Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch, the show's creators, expressed their disappointment, saying, "COVID has caused immense loss and should be our main concern. Unfortunately, it also resulted in the cancellation of our show. Netflix has chosen not to complete the filming of the final season of GLOW. We had the opportunity to create a nuanced comedy centered around women's stories and wrestling, but now that opportunity has vanished."

Credit: David Giesbrecht/USA Network/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Mr. Robot (2015-2019)

USA Network announced in August 2018 that their critically acclaimed drama, featuring Rami Malek and Christian Slater, will conclude after season 4. Creator Sam Esmail shared with The Hollywood Reporter that he had always envisioned the show lasting for four to five seasons, as he believes it falls somewhere in between. The exact format of the final two seasons is still being determined, whether they will consist of shorter seasons or remain as two full 10-episode seasons. Esmail emphasized the importance of the writers' room and himself taking this decision seriously, ensuring that the show never feels stagnant.

Credit: YouTube

Sweet/Vicious (2016-2017)

MTV canceled Jennifer Kaytin Robinson's TV series about two college students who become on-campus vigilantes that target sexual assailants.

Credit: Fox

Pitch (2016)

The drama was cancelled after airing on Fox from September to December 2016. Despite creator Dan Fogelman's optimism that another network would pick up the show, it did not receive a renewal.

Credit: Craig Sjodin/ABC

Trophy Wife (2013-2014)

Apparently, beauty alone doesn't guarantee success. This highly acclaimed ABC comedy, featuring Malin Ackerman in the lead role, was unfortunately canceled after its first season, despite receiving positive reviews and boasting an irresistible cast (just take a look at Bert!). The network's choice to air it at 9:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday nights was widely criticized.

Credit: HBO

The Newsroom (2012-2014)

An HBO drama about real-life current events produced by Aaron Sorkin — what could possibly go awry? Unfortunately, quite a lot. The journalism series, albeit short-lived, managed to only survive for three seasons and endured mixed reviews and low ratings. It delved into the lives of a team of journalists employed by the imaginary show News Night, under the leadership of anchor Will McAvoy. Prior to the final season being broadcasted, Sorkin, the writer and creator, conceded, "I feel like I'm just now beginning to grasp the art of writing it."

Credit: Andrew Eccles/ABC Family

Bunheads (2012-2013)

It seems that ABC Family has the power to relegate Baby to a corner. The adored creator Amy Sherman-Palladino brought joy to fans with her initial post-Gilmore Girls series, which revolved around a showgirl in Las Vegas (portrayed by Sutton Foster) who relocates to a small town and imparts her knowledge of dance and life to teenage ballerinas. Unfortunately, the show was axed after just one season, while programs like Baby Daddy managed to endure. Life can be quite unfair.

Credit: Joe Viles/ABC

Don't Trust the B— in Apt. 23 (2012-2013)

Credit: Mark Seliger/NBC

Smash (2012-2013)

Just like numerous shows on Broadway, this Broadway musical series ended prematurely. With the involvement of executive producer Steven Spielberg, the NBC series showcased the creation of a biographical musical about Marilyn Monroe and other aspects. Despite receiving mixed reviews, the original songs and impressive vocal talents of Megan Hilty and Katharine McPhee were highly praised by musical enthusiasts. However, Smash suffered due to its weak storyline and characters that gave rise to the phenomenon of "hate watching." Additionally, there was the controversial Bollywood episode.

Credit: Craig Sjodin/ABC

Happy Endings (2011-2013)

Not-so Happy Ending. This beloved, wacky ABC comedy about a group of friends (Eliza Coupe, Elisha Cuthbert, Zachary Knighton, Adam Pally, Damon Wayans Jr., and Casey Wilson) living in Chicago had a not-so-happy ending after three seasons. Considered by many as the second coming of Friends, the show was abruptly taken off the airwaves, leaving fans disappointed. Despite USA's contemplation of reviving the show, it ultimately ended up in the cancellations graveyard due to the underwhelming ratings of its third season.

Credit: HBO

Enlightened (2011-2013)

Amy Jellicoe's revelation had a detrimental impact on her life, yet it failed to ignite sufficient interest from HBO to prolong the run of this highly regarded series beyond two seasons. Despite star Laura Dern's Golden Globe-winning portrayal, the show's inadequate viewership prompted its premature cancellation.

Credit: Bob D'Amico/ABC Family

Greek (2007-2011)

Hazed out! This ABC Family comedy, centered around the captivating world of sororities and fraternities, concluded in season 4, leaving viewers with a sense of satisfaction. However, it remains apparent that there was potential for the series to effortlessly forge ahead. The lead character, Rusty (nicknamed Spitter), was merely a junior at the time the show wrapped up, hinting at the exciting array of parties and romantic escapades awaiting him in the future.

Credit: Starz

Party Down (2009-2010)

Party Down, much like its aspiring actors-turned-wait staff, failed to achieve significant success. Despite receiving positive reviews, the Starz series was ultimately canceled after only two seasons. The comedy experienced setbacks due to both its dwindling ratings and the departure of actress Jane Lynch to Glee and Adam Scott to Parks and Recreation.

Credit: Cliff Lipson/CBS

Jericho (2006-2008)

CBS’ post-apocalyptic drama based in Jericho, Kansas portrays the aftermath of a devastating nuclear attack that wiped out 23 major U.S. cities. The thrilling series captivated audiences for two seasons on television and continued its storyline through seasons 3 and 4 in comic book format. Although discussions regarding a potential acquisition by Netflix have arisen, no definitive plans have been made.

Was it Brutus? This historical drama depicted the transformation of Ancient Rome from a Republic to an Empire, showcasing the captivating blend of passion and brutality seen in shows like Game of Thrones! Sadly, this compelling tale only graced HBO's screens for two seasons due to the high production costs. However, there have been persistent rumors of a Rome movie adaptation. Fear not, for Lucius Vorenus (Kevin McKidd) has already pledged his involvement.

Credit: Anthony Mandler/USA Network/NBCU Photo Bank

The 4400 (2004-2007)

Were they transported elsewhere? This science fiction drama chronicles the mysterious reappearance of 4,400 individuals who had vanished, only to be transported to Earth near Mount Rainier in Washington. Strangely, they have no recollection of their absence. The show ran for four seasons but unfortunately faced cancellation on CBS due to the Writers Guild of America strike, financial constraints, and inadequate ratings. This decision left fans hanging as it concluded its fourth season with a compelling cliffhanger.

Credit: Warner Bros./Getty Images

Everwood (2002-2006)

Long before the rise of Chris Pratt as the famed Guardian of the Galaxy or the memorable, goofy character of Andy Dwyer, and even before Emily VanCamp gained recognition as the vengeful Emily Thorne, they portrayed a delightful duo as brother and sister on the beloved television series Everwood. This heartfelt drama centered around the story of a father and son who relocated from New York City to Colorado, captivating a devoted fan base while causing controversy among certain parents due to its provocative themes. Despite the show's fourth and final season receiving its highest ratings, it was regrettably cancelled as a result of the WB/UPN merger that gave birth to The CW.

Credit: 20th Century Fox/Everett Collection

Firefly (2002-2003)

Beware of upsetting the Browncoats! Joss Whedon, the renowned creator of Comic-Con favorites such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its spin-off series Angel, delighted his devoted fan base with the science fiction show Firefly. Set in the year 2517, the series revolved around a rebellious crew aboard a spaceship. Unfortunately, the captivating adventures of Captain Mal Reynolds (portrayed by Nathan Fillion) were cut short after only one season on Fox. In an effort to appease the heartbroken fans, Whedon released the film Serenity in 2005 as a continuation of the story.

Credit: Getty Images

Roswell (1999-2002)

It's easy to understand why a sci-fi series centered around encounters with aliens quickly developed a devoted following, but unfortunately, this wasn't enough to sustain Roswell on The WB for more than three seasons. The clash between the conflicting relationship subplots and the extraterrestrial storylines led to the show's cancellation after season 2, only to be revived for a lackluster season 3. Eventually, star Katherine Heigl achieved television stardom with her role in Grey's Anatomy, while co-star Nick Wechsler also found success on ABC's Revenge.

Credit: Touchstone Television

Popular (1999-2001)

Lacking sufficient popularity, this Ryan Murphy teenage comedy from the late 1990s revolves around two high school girls situated at opposite ends of the popularity spectrum. Their lives become intertwined when their parents join in matrimony, leading them to share a living space. Unfortunately, this comedy series on The WB network did not manage to surpass a duration of two seasons. On the bright side, Murphy embarked on a highly successful career as one of the most acclaimed TV creators, delivering impactful shows such as Glee, American Horror Story, and Nip/Tuck, along with the HBO film The Normal Heart.

Credit: NBC

Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)

Long before Judd Apatow and Paul Feig became comedy legends, they gave birth to a cultural phenomenon known as Freaks and Geeks, a teenage dramedy that has achieved a cult classic status. This acclaimed series introduced the world to an ensemble cast of young talents, including James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Busy Philipps. Originally, only 12 out of the 18 episodes from the first season were aired on NBC between 1999 and 2000. However, due to the passionate outcry from fans, the remaining six episodes were released later that year. The enduring popularity and critical acclaim of Freaks and Geeks are evident through its inclusion in prestigious top TV lists of all time by esteemed publications such as Time Magazine, TV Guide, and Entertainment Weekly.

If you’ve been an avid viewer of top television shows over the past five years, chances are you’ve come across a talented cast member from this Aaron Sorkin dramedy centered around a sports news program. The series featured acclaimed actors including Felicity Huffman from Desperate Housewives, Josh Charles from The Good Wife, Peter Krause from Parenthood, and Joshua Malina from Scandal. Despite being offered the opportunity to transition from ABC to other networks, Sorkin declined in order to dedicate his time to his immensely popular and enduring political drama, The West Wing.

Credit: Mark Selinger/ABC

My So-Called Life (1994-1995)

The first season of My So-Called Life, a highly praised series by ABC, concluded with a suspenseful ending. Angela, portrayed by the initially lesser-known Claire Danes, came to the realization that Jordan, the rebellious character played by Jared Leto, was not the ideal partner she had envisioned. The show's writers had faith in its continuation and intentionally left the audience speculating whether Angela would eventually pursue a relationship with the amiable Brian, played by Devon Gummersall.