It’S Not Just Blue Bloods – These 8 Cbs Tv Shows Were Also Canceled Way Too Soon
CBS’s History of Premature Cancellations: Blue Bloods & Beyond
CBS’s decision to cancel Blue Bloods after 14 seasons was met with disappointment, but it wasn’t the first time the network ended a beloved show too soon.
Despite its lasting impact and the Reagan family’s compelling story, Blue Bloods was cut short, leaving unanswered questions about Jamie and Eddie’s baby, Erin and Jack’s remarriage, and Frank’s possible retirement.
The announcement of a spinoff only deepened the frustration of fans who wanted the original to continue.
CBS has a track record of axing shows prematurely, including these fan favorites:
Jericho – A Post-Apocalyptic Drama Cut Short
Jericho followed the small town of Jericho, Kansas, as they struggled to survive after nuclear attacks on American cities. Despite its low ratings, it gained a passionate fanbase, leading to a second season revival. However, CBS canceled it again after just seven episodes, leaving many plotlines unresolved.
Person of Interest – A Sci-Fi Thriller with More to Tell
This gripping show followed former CIA agent John Reese and tech genius Harold Finch as they used “The Machine” to prevent crimes before they happened. Despite strong viewership, Person of Interest was canceled after five seasons, primarily due to financial disputes between CBS and Warner Bros. Fortunately, the writers anticipated the cancellation and crafted a somewhat satisfying ending.
Extant – A Unique Sci-Fi Series Ended Too Soon
Starring Halle Berry, Extant told the story of astronaut Molly Woods, who mysteriously became pregnant after a solo mission in space. Despite strong reviews and an intriguing premise, CBS canceled it after just two seasons, cutting short its potential.
Ghost Whisperer – A Supernatural Hit That Deserved More
Jennifer Love Hewitt starred as Melinda Gordon, a woman who helped spirits find peace. Ghost Whisperer ran for five seasons before CBS canceled it, citing declining ratings. Fans were left with an unsatisfying conclusion, as the creators had no warning that the fifth season would be the last.
Chicago Hope – A Medical Drama with Tough Competition
This critically acclaimed medical drama depicted the lives of doctors at the fictional Chicago Hope hospital. Despite its praise for realistic medical portrayals, constant cast changes and stiff competition led to its cancellation after six seasons.
NCIS: Hawai’i – A Surprising Cancellation
As the first NCIS spinoff to feature a female lead, NCIS: Hawai’i earned positive reviews and had strong viewership. However, after three seasons, CBS canceled it, leaving the story unfinished. Like Blue Bloods, the cast fought for renewal but ultimately met the same fate.
So Help Me Todd – A Promising Show Ended Abruptly
This legal drama-comedy followed private investigator Todd working with his lawyer mother, Margaret. Despite its engaging characters and humor, CBS canceled it after two seasons, ending on an unresolved cliffhanger.
Cold Case – A Crime Drama That Could Have Gone Further
This series followed Philadelphia detectives solving old cases with historical flashbacks. After seven seasons, CBS canceled it without a proper conclusion. A planned reboot never materialized, mirroring the frustration fans feel over Blue Bloods’ abrupt ending.
The Future of Blue Bloods
While Blue Bloods may be over at CBS, its upcoming spinoff offers hope that the Reagan family’s story isn’t completely finished. Like many canceled CBS shows before it, Blue Bloods may live on in new ways—just not in the way fans originally hoped.
