Why Was Longmire Cancelled Without a Proper Ending?

The critically acclaimed series Longmire was cancelled by the AE Cable TV network, much to the dismay of fans. Although the show had impressive ratings overall, it suffered from a particular demographic challenge: the majority of viewers were older adults, with a significant portion being over 50. This age group was not particularly attractive to advertisers, meaning the network's bottom line took a hit despite the show's success.

Demographic Challenges and Ratings

Longmire’s primary audience was middle-aged and elderly viewers, a demographic that AE had not seen in years. The network's focus was on younger generations, and these viewers were largely absent from the audience, leading to a disconnect with advertisers who were more interested in reaching younger demographics with higher disposable incomes.

Despite the issues with the demographic, the producers of Longmire were optimistic about another season on AE. However, the sudden cancellation left fans and creators disappointed. The cancellation came as a shock to the producers, who were “surprised” by the decision, as the show had been performing well overall.

Netflix Steps In

Fortunately, Netflix, recognizing the quality and potential of the series, took the initiative to pick up Longmire. Under Netflix's stewardship, the show was allowed to continue and concluded in an appropriate manner, even if the final seasons were not as highly rated as the previous ones.

The Importance of Finality

For many fans, the cancellation of Longmire without a proper runway to reach its ending proved to be a tragic end to what could have been a beloved show. The lack of a well-constructed finale left many questions unanswered and left a bitter taste in the mouths of long-time viewers. The struggle to find a final season on a platform willing to invest in the series' conclusion underscores the importance of considering the full picture of a show's lifecycle, including its finality and closure.

Impact on Future Series

The cancellation of Longmire serves as a cautionary tale for creators and networks alike. Understanding and addressing demographic challenges early on can help prevent sudden cancellations and the loss of potentially valuable content. Additionally, ensuring that a series has a chance to reach a proper conclusion, even if it’s on a different platform, is crucial for maintaining the integrity and legacy of a well-loved show.

The story of Longmire is a poignant reminder of the complex nature of television series and the important role that fans and platforms play in their success. From initial network commitments to the eventual home they find on a streaming service, the journey of a show is often a delicate balancing act.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cancellation of Longmire without a proper ending is a complex issue with implications for both the television industry and its fans. It highlights the ongoing debate about the value of older viewers and the importance of ensuring that beloved shows have a chance to not only continue but to conclude in a manner that satisfies their audience.