The reboot and revival craze has now become the sequel and prequel boom – and CBS is at the center of the trend. The network has invested in their shows over the years with FBI, Fire Country, NCIS and more getting the chance to spread their story across multiple installments. Fire Country, which debuted in 2022, followed inmate Bode (Max Thieriot) returning home and volunteering for the California Conservation Camp Program. There has since been a backdoor pilot for Morena Baccarin‘s character, which turned into the upcoming Sheriff Country series – and the franchise isn’t slowing down.
“I think there’s still a lot of room to explore. There’s more room to explore in Edgewater and outside of Edgewater,” Thieriot, who serves as an executive producer, teased to Us Weekly exclusively in May 2024. “When I started, I was always putting the cart before the horse. In my head, I had probably at least three other versions outside of Fire Country. Whether any of those ever see the light of day – we’ll see. But I certainly have at least a couple more ideas for this world.” There’s also Georgie and Mandy’s First Marriage, which is following in the footsteps of The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon.
“You can watch Young Sheldon without knowing anything about The Big Bang Theory,” star Montana Jordan told Us in October 2024. “And I believe you can watch this new show without watching Young Sheldon. It’s a new start. We’re starting a new thing and you get to follow Georgie and Mandy as they go through all these trials and errors in life. It’s a very relatable topic and everybody knows about it and it’s not a secret.”
The world of TV is unpredictable—just when you think your favorite characters might be getting their own spinoff, boom, the network pulls the plug. Recently, CBS announced it’s canceling two highly anticipated spinoff series, leaving fans in the dark. But here’s the twist—not all hope is lost. So, what’s going on behind the scenes, and which of these spinoffs might still make it to our screens?Let’s dive into everything you need to know.
Why Spinoffs Are a Big Deal in the TV World
Spinoffs are like the cool cousin of your favorite show. They take a beloved universe and dive deeper, often giving side characters the spotlight they deserve. CBS, known for long-running hits like NCIS, FBI, and The Good Wife, has been a spinoff powerhouse. So when they cancel a spinoff, it’s not just a business move—it’s personal for fans.
The Shocking Cancelation Announcement
CBS Pulls the Plug—But Why Now?
So what exactly happened? According to insiders, CBS decided not to move forward with two planned spinoff projects. Though development had begun, the network cited creative differences, scheduling conflicts, and changing audience interests as reasons.
Was It a Budget Issue?
With rising production costs and increased competition from streaming giants, networks are tightening their wallets. Spinoffs, especially those linked to franchises with massive followings, aren’t cheap. CBS likely weighed the ROI and made the tough call.
Which Spinoffs Were Canceled?
“NCIS: Origins” – The Prequel Fans Were Dying For
Yep, this one hurts. NCIS: Origins was set to explore the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the gruff, coffee-loving team leader played by Mark Harmon. The prequel had fans hyped, especially since Harmon himself was producing.
But despite the buzz, CBS hit the brakes. Why? Rumor has it the casting didn’t quite hit the mark, and producers couldn’t agree on the tone.
“The Good Lawyer” – A Legal Drama That Never Saw Daylight
Set in the same universe as The Good Doctor, this legal drama had serious potential. Starring Kennedy McMann and Felicity Huffman, it even had a backdoor pilot that aired within The Good Doctor. But CBS passed, leaving fans scratching their heads.
What Does This Mean for the Franchises?
The “NCIS” Universe Isn’t Done Yet
Just because Origins is shelved doesn’t mean the NCIS universe is over. CBS still has NCIS, NCIS: Hawai’i, and even whispers of a potential Tony & Ziva limited series.
The “Good” Franchise Could Pivot to Streaming
Given the critical success of The Good Wife and The Good Fight, there’s always a chance The Good Lawyer could find a new home—think Paramount+ or even Netflix.
Spinoffs That Got Canceled but Came Back Strong
TV Shows That Prove Cancelation Isn’t the End
Remember Brooklyn Nine-Nine? Canceled by Fox, picked up by NBC. Or Lucifer, saved by Netflix? Cancelation isn’t always the final curtain. It’s more like a commercial break.
Why These Spinoffs Still Have a Fighting Chance
Fan Support Makes a Difference
Fan petitions, trending hashtags, and online buzz can seriously impact network decisions. If enough noise is made, CBS—or another platform—might take notice.
Streaming Services Are Always Watching
Streaming platforms are always hunting for ready-made audiences. A canceled CBS show with a built-in fanbase? That’s gold.
Behind the Scenes: What Really Kills a Spinoff?
Creative Conflicts
Too many cooks in the writer’s room? Happens more often than you’d think. Creative clashes between networks and showrunners can sink a project before it even sails.
Casting Woes
If the right actor isn’t available—or the chemistry is off—networks may hesitate. Spinoffs live or die on character connections.
What CBS Could Still Do Next
Revamp and Repackage
CBS might rework the pilots, recast roles, or tweak storylines before relaunching them as new shows.
License to Streaming Platforms
Paramount+ is already home to many CBS hits. Don’t be surprised if the axed shows resurface there with new branding.
Hope Is Not Lost—And Here’s Why
TV history is filled with “canceled” shows that came back stronger. If fan demand is there and the story still shines, these spinoffs could very well get another shot.
Conclusion
The cancelation of two CBS spinoff series may feel like a punch to the gut, but it’s not necessarily the end of the road. Networks are unpredictable, and in today’s entertainment landscape, there’s always a second chance—especially for shows tied to iconic franchises. So, don’t hang up your fandom just yet. Keep watching. Keep tweeting. And who knows? Your favorite canceled spinoff might still premiere after all.
