Should You Watch a Cancelled TV Show When You Know the Ending Is Lost?

The realm of television series is vast, and so is the debate surrounding whether to continue watching a show once it has been cancelled, particularly one that hasn't reached its final season. This discussion is not only about embracing loss but also about the deeper connection we develop with fictional characters and their stories. Let's delve into the reasons why you might choose to stick with a cancelled show or why you might just turn the channel.

Personal Affection and Investment of Time

Personal attachment to the show can be significant. If a show like Planet of the Apes or His Dark Materials has captured your heart, the excitement of its cancellation can be equally poignant. The Planet of the Apes TV show is a prime example of a series that was well-received in Japan but was overlooked by American audiences. Despite these challenges, the show maintained a strong fanbase and concluded its run in a way that brought closure to the invested viewers. By continuing to watch, you honor the creation and the time you've invested in becoming attached to the characters and world they inhabit.

The Impact of an Unresolved Story

Does the lack of a proper ending bug you? The agony of not knowing how a made-up story will wrap up can be substantial. If the idea of an incomplete ending leaves you feeling anxious or unsatisfied, it may be worth considering watching the show through until the end. This could provide a sense of closure or, at the very least, a little entertainment before you move on to other pursuits.

Ending as a Friendship

Maintaining a show until its end can be seen as treating the characters as close friends. The journey you've gone through together, much like a friendship, might feel incomplete without the inevitable end. You can consider the show as a series of shared experiences, each character's story unfinished, but enriching your life during the time you spent with them. It is about investing in those final moments and cherishing the memories created.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to continue watching a cancelled show is entirely personal. If the series has captured your heart, the loss of its continuation might be too much to bear. However, if you are leaning towards a more practical approach, recognizing the value in entertainment without a looming sense of incompleteness can help you make a decision. Either way, the enjoyment of the journey, the exploration of the characters, and the world they inhabit can be a rewarding experience.

Key Takeaways: Personal attachment to characters can drive the decision to continue watching. A lack of ending satisfaction can impact your viewing decision. Ending a show with the characters can provide a sense of closure.

Related Reading: Planet of the Apes TV Show Impact of TV Show Cancellations Friendship and Media