5 Shows That Should Have Lasted Longer Than Just One Season

There are so many series to choose from when you want to start something new, so getting it right is sometimes a tough task. And even when you think you have found a gem, something terrible can happen along the way. For example, the show can be unnecessarily long and lose its charm in the middle…

However, sometimes it's just the opposite. Despite the fact that the show is successful and highly praised by viewers, the creators decide to cut it short for various reasons. Here are 5 shows that Redditors think should have lasted longer.

1. I Am Not Ok With This (2020)

This Netflix series, based on the graphic novel by Charles Forsman, had so much promise. Centered around Sydney, a teenager struggling with typical coming-of-age issues like pressure at school, family relationships, and friendships, the show took an unexpected turn when Sydney discovered she had superpowers.

The show offered a fresh take on the superhero genre, mixing teen drama with humor and the supernatural. Despite its enthusiastic fandom, I Am Not Okay With This was canceled after just one season. And the pain of not knowing how Sydney's powers would have played out is still with us.

2. Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)

Freaks and Geeks is a 100%-rated show that is even considered one of the best teen dramas ever created, but still had the misfortune of being canceled after only one season. The show depicted the lives of high school students in the early '80s, balancing the lives of "freaks" and "geeks" as they navigate adolescence.

The show featured an incredible ensemble cast that included James Franco, Seth Rogen, Linda Cardellini, and Jason Segel (who all went on to become major stars.) Freaks and Geeks was critically acclaimed for its authenticity, smart writing, and well-developed characters, but it still struggled to find its core audience.

“One of the greatest shows ever created and it only got one season. The talent on this show was insane. I didn’t even know till recently that the actor who played Sam went on to direct Game Night, one of the funnier comedies I’ve seen in recent years,” Redditor SunBro98 said.

3. Firefly ( 2002-2003)

Joss Whedon’s Firefly is probably the most iconic example of a show that didn’t get the chance it deserved. This space western, set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets, was definitely ahead of its time, and maybe that became the reason why it was canceled after just 14 episodes. Even its huge fandom and critical acclaim didn’t save the show.

After a while, a sequel was released to ease the pain of ending the series on a cliffhanger. And while it helped and gave fans some closure, it was never really enough. The world of Firefly offered so much more to explore, and this cancellation remains one of the most disappointing in TV history.

4. My So-Called Life (1994-1995)

My So-Called Life starred Claire Danes as Angela Chase, a high school girl navigating the complexities of teenage life and all that comes with it. The show was groundbreaking for its raw, honest portrayal of teenage life and received critical acclaim for its performances and writing.

Despite its popularity and the strong chemistry between its leads, ABC canceled the show after just one season. Fans still mourn the loss of this teen drama that could have continued its rich, authentic character development.

“One of the best examples in recent memory of like major major hype about a young actor or actress 100% coming true. I remember this show airing and like all the buzz around Claire Danes was that she was so young and promising and could go on to be one of the best actresses of her generation,” Redditor tequilasauer said.

5. Scavengers Reign ( 2023)

Scavengers Reign is a sci-fi drama series that has captivated viewers with its complex story and absolutely atmospheric world-building. Set on a distant planet, the show follows a group of astronauts struggling to survive after their mission goes wrong. Despite its great potential, Scavengers Reign was abruptly canceled after only one season, leaving viewers with lots of unanswered questions.

“This show is such a love letter to weird fiction. It's a great vibe of Moebius and strange planets and very golden age exploration sci fi, on top of great characters with amazing animation and sound design. Honestly one of my favorite shows of all time right now, maybe I'm just high on recency bias, but it is really really good,” Redditor TheLogicalErudite said.