From Creation to Cancellation: Why Good Shows Get Canceled?

Call 9-1-1!

May Sweeps were here. This was the time networks announce their projected Fall shows. This was called the "Upfront" schedule. They announced shows who got renewals, which mean they're safe and keep a spot in the schedule, although their time and day may be changed. This was also the time when shows find out, if they're cancelled. The storylines of those cancelled programs were wrapped up in final episodes leading to their series finale. Whether it was a freshman show, which gave it a good try, or a veteran show, that gave it their all, what can we say?

Those shows that awaited their fate were called "on the bubble" ; it' was up to the network either to burst it or keep it afloat. What shows stayed? What shows were dropped?

The Autopsy

We'll look into the anatomy of a cancelled show by doing an autopsy. There's at least thirteen factors that go into the decision, determined by the networks. Usually a show is dead, if it met one, some or heaven forbid all of them.

One by one, an explanation of these unlucky thirteen factors, which are divided into eight categories: DOA (pre-production problems, script and cast changes), Corpse (not enough buzz and hype, postponing the return date, no lead-in), Incision (schedule changes, hiatus), Diagnosis (no additional episodes or full season orders and early renewals), Dissection (cut back on episodes orders/premature orders), Burial (pulled from schedule early in advance) and Casket, (pulled from schedule effective immediately, all leading to Flatlines (ratings).

DOA: Pre-production Problems, Script/Cast Changes

Pre-Production problems are the first sign. If there's trouble, even before a program hits the small screen, that's an indication of a DOA show. It's like a soft bleep on the heart monitor's screen, signalling a weak heart. Normally this happens before you even shoot the pilot.