Why Some Beloved TV Shows Deserved Better Treatments

TV shows that enjoy huge success and strong fan followings often fall prey to unexpected cancellations. Here are some notable examples where a show got the ax despite being a hit, largely due to factors beyond the story's quality. From the divisive acting chemistry in Lethal Weapon to Rosanne's decline post-cancellation, and the premature end of beloved series like Friday Night Lights, let's delve into why certain beloved TV shows deserved better treatments.

Clayne Crawford and Lethal Weapon

The cancellation of Lethal Weapon serves as a prime example of an unjustified termination. Despite having excellent ratings and action that many fans loved, the show faced the axe when actor Clayne Crawford was killed off. The decision to ax the show after losing Clayne Crawford was particularly unfortunate as the show was already struggling remarkably without him. Fans mourned the loss, feeling that the show no longer captured the same magic it once had.

The Drama Behind Rosanne's Show

Another instance of unfair termination is with the show Rosanne. When the original cast, led by Rosanne Conner, left the series, the resulting dynamics significantly diminished the show's appeal. While the show continued under the Connors name, it never managed to recapture the humor and chemistry that made the original series so successful. The conversations between Hayley and Darlene, in particular, were widely favored by the fan base and missed dearly after Rosanne's departure.

Lost Season's Premature End

Some shows terminate too soon, robbing fans of the full narrative arc that the creators had envisioned. This was the case with the television series Lost. The creators initially stated that the story only needed around 3-4 seasons to conclude, but the showrunners chose to stretch the narrative across six seasons. This prolongation ultimately diluted the impact of the show's earlier, more engaging episodes. Fans often wish that network and cable on-demand platforms would consider giving shows at least a few more seasons to complete their storylines, rather than prematurely ending them due to financial or other considerations.

Lessons From Injustices

These cancellations highlight the need for a more flexible and fair system in the television industry. More often than not, the economic interests of networks and studios overshadow the artistic and entertainment value of a show. Actors and creators should be given contracts that allow for reasonable adjustments in payment if their involvement is reduced, similar to a kind of salary suspension. This approach could save many shows from cutting their runs short and allow for the proper development of their stories.

Ultimately, it's essential for the industry to carefully consider the long-term impact of their decisions, especially when terminating a show. Fans deserve to see beloved series complete their narratives, rather than facing abrupt and often unfair endings.

In summary, whether it's Lethal Weapon, Rosanne, or Lost, the termination of beloved TV shows should be a more thought-out process. Regardless of the reason for cancellation, it's crucial for the industry to act with consideration and fairness, allowing these stories to be concluded as they were planned.