As viewers prepare for the current seasons of their most favorite television shows to come to an end, the question always remains: will they be renewed or will they be canceled? CBS has been busy approving a string of their offerings to return for the 2025-26 season including fan favorites such as all three current NCIS offerings, Justin Hartley’s Tracker , and fantasy sitcom Ghosts. However, there can only be room for so much TV and sadly, several shows have also been given the chop for next season. While some titles appear to have run their course and others simply didn’t make the cut, there’s also a few surprises amongst the list of series that have been culled before the new season.
The TV landscape is shifting again, and CBS just made some serious waves. If you thought your favorite shows were safe, think again. CBS has officially canceled six series, and fans are buzzing — or better yet, fuming. Whether due to ratings, creative shifts, or network strategy, these shows are getting the boot before the 2025-2026 season kicks off. Let’s break it all down — who’s out, why it happened, and what this means for the future of CBS.
What’s Going On at CBS?
CBS isn’t new to canceling shows, but this year feels different. With increased competition from streaming platforms, a focus on cost-cutting, and a push for fresher content, CBS is pivoting hard. These six cancellations are a clear sign the network is reshaping its identity.
The Big Six: Which Shows Got Canceled?
Let’s rip off the Band-Aid. Here are the six shows that won’t be making a comeback in the 2025-2026 season:
After just four seasons, “NCIS: Hawai’i” is heading into the sunset. While it had a loyal fanbase and strong storytelling, its ratings didn’t keep up with the rest of the NCIS universe. CBS cited “strategic realignment” as the reason — a fancy way of saying, we’re done here.
“So Help Me Todd” – No More Legal Laughs
This quirky legal dramedy was a fan favorite, but it struggled to find its footing in the ratings race. Despite its unique blend of humor and heart, CBS pulled the plug after Season 3, leaving fans wondering what could’ve been.
“CSI: Vegas” – Case Closed
The revival of this iconic franchise had promise, but it didn’t generate the buzz CBS hoped for. “CSI: Vegas” wraps up after three seasons, closing the case on its second life. Sometimes, the magic just doesn’t strike twice.
“Blue Bloods” – A Shocking End to a Legacy
Perhaps the biggest surprise on this list, “Blue Bloods” has been a Friday night staple for over a decade. But CBS has confirmed the long-running police procedural won’t return after Season 15. The decision? Financial. The cost of keeping the cast and production running just didn’t match the returns anymore.
“East New York” – The Short-Lived Cop Drama
Despite critical acclaim and strong performances, “East New York” couldn’t dodge the ax. Viewership dropped significantly by the end of Season 2, making it a target in CBS’s latest cleanup.
“The Equalizer” – Justice No More
Queen Latifah brought fire to this reboot, but ratings slid in Season 4. With CBS focusing on fresh narratives and younger demographics, “The Equalizer” has been retired once again. The mission is over.
Why Were These Shows Canceled?
Let’s not sugarcoat it. TV is a business — and a brutal one at that. Here are some of the key reasons these shows got the boot:
Declining Ratings
Even loyal fans can’t save a show if the numbers aren’t there. Ratings are the lifeblood of network television, and these shows just didn’t deliver consistently.
High Production Costs
Shows like “Blue Bloods” come with hefty price tags — veteran actors, complex sets, and long shooting schedules. When those costs outweigh the profit, the red pen comes out.
Creative Direction Changes
CBS is pushing for a younger, more diverse lineup. That means some of the older franchises or niche series just don’t fit the new game plan.
Streaming Wars Impact
Let’s be real — streaming platforms are stealing the spotlight. CBS is under pressure to innovate and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving digital world.
How Are Fans Reacting?
Fans aren’t taking this quietly. Twitter, Reddit, and fan forums lit up with reactions, from heartbreak to outright rage. Hashtags like #SaveNCISHawaii and #BringBackBlueBloods are already trending.
What Cast Members Are Saying
Some stars took to social media to express gratitude and sadness. Queen Latifah thanked fans for “a powerful run,” while Tom Selleck called his time on “Blue Bloods” “an unforgettable journey.”
Will Any of These Shows Be Revived Later?
Never say never. TV history is filled with surprise revivals. A passionate fan campaign, strong streaming numbers, or even international syndication success could bring one of these series back — but don’t hold your breath.
What’s Next for CBS?
CBS is focusing on:
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Expanding its streaming content via Paramount+
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Introducing younger-skewing dramas and comedies
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Partnering with new talent for fresh ideas
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Cutting down on legacy franchises to reduce overhead
Shows Safe (For Now)
Wondering what’s still standing? Here’s what CBS is still backing:
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“FBI” Franchise
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“Young Sheldon” Spin-offs
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“Ghosts”
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“Survivor” & “The Amazing Race”
If your show’s not on that list, you might want to start praying.
Is Your Favorite Next?
That’s the million-dollar question. The TV world is unpredictable. If your favorite show is skimming the bottom of the ratings barrel, now’s the time to shout your support online.
Final Thoughts
It’s never fun saying goodbye to the characters and stories we grow attached to. But that’s showbiz, right? While we mourn these six cancellations, let’s also look ahead. Who knows? The next big hit might be just around the corner.
