The Truth Behind the Cancellation of TV Shows: Dark Matter and Beyond

The universe of television is vast, with its own mysteries and theories, much like the galaxies themselves. One such show that intrigued viewers was Dark Matter, though it met a premature end. The cancellation of Dark Matter in the 2010s was more than just a trick played on the audience; it was a complex web of decisions and circumstances intertwined with the broader landscape of television networks and their understanding of viewership and marketing strategies.

The Case Against Dark Matter

Let's start with the 2010s Dark Matter. Unlike the more recent Dark Matter series, the space opera of the earlier decade was overexploited, and the initial mystery box’s potential played out rather quickly. Despite the fun performances by the actors, the show's creative well ran dry, leaving a meandering third season. This was not an isolated incident but part of a trend among Syfy, a network known for ambitious but short-lived shows.

Network Priorities and Marketing Decisions

Syfy's approach to programming has often been criticized, with the network more focused on short-term profits and ratings than long-term viewer engagement. Many shows, despite initial success, are cancelled to make room for newer, more visually striking or financially lucrative programs. This decision-making process often relies on a single mediocre night, such as scheduling Dark Matter against a wrestling show, which is a clear example of a network prioritizing profits over viewer satisfaction.

Budget and Scientific Fandom

Beyond the business decisions and scheduling arrangements, there are other explanations for show cancellations, such as budget constraints. The cost of creating science fiction shows, with their complex special effects and elaborate sets, can lead to significant financial overruns. One such example is the hypernova in Canis Majoris, a costly event that led to budget cuts and cancelation. This incident illustrates how network executives sometimes face difficult decisions, opting to cut costs even if it means ending a series rather than continuing with it.

Science and Fandom

The network’s refusal to understand or cater to the science fiction fandom is another issue. The cancellation of Serenity by Gail Berman and Dark Matter by Bonnie Hammer is a prime example. These executives seem to dismiss the passion and significance of the sci-fi community. They also seem to view science fiction as a niche interest that doesn't warrant substantial investment, leading to the cancellation of shows that could have been successful given the right promotion and distribution.

The Case for Dark Matter and Syfy's Controversies

On the other hand, the cancellation of Dark Matter raises questions about fairness and logical marketing strategies. Unlike Dark Matter, Killjoys had lower ratings but was renewed for two seasons. The scheduling of Dark Matter in the Friday Night Death Slot, however, did not hinder its performance as one of Syfy's second-best scripted programs. The Syfy network’s official reason for cancellation—low viewership—seems to be at odds with its willingness to live with poor performers for foreign distribution and spin-off opportunities.

The reality of the situation is often more convoluted. NBCUniversal, as part of the network group, is deeply involved in branding and marketing strategies that often prioritize short-term gains over long-term viewer investment. The inclusion of professional wrestling shows and the fracturing of the Star Wars universe further illustrate a network that may not fully understand or respect the dedicated fans of science fiction media.

In conclusion, the cancellation of Dark Matter is a fascinating case study in entertainment business ethics and fan relations. While the reasons for cancelling the show may lie in budget cuts and network priorities, the underlying issues highlight the challenges of catering to niche and passionate audiences in a highly competitive and ever-changing media landscape.

Keywords

TV show cancellation, Dark Matter, Syfy