CBS is one of the most popular broadcast television channels in existence and one of the longest-running. As such, the Eye Network has seen hundreds of shows come and go in its time (it was founded almost a full century ago!).
But while CBS is still running and home to a couple of franchises now between NCIS and FBI, there are some series that we wish could have gone on longer. The network is known for favoring more traditional broadcast fare with a lot of legal dramas, multi-cam sitcoms, and police procedurals. Most of the shows featured on this list lean into horror, pscyhological thriller, or sci-fi, and that might be the reason they were canceled too soon. As a psychological horror show engineered to function as a sequel to the 1991 film The Silence of the Lambs, Clarice was a bold move from CBS as it isn’t the type of show the network is known for producing. The majority of CBS series are procedurals and sitcoms, so the introduction of a tense horror show connected to Hannibal Lecter was pretty surprising.
It always felt like Clarice landed on the wrong network and the execs seemed to agree as there were once discussions to move the show to streaming service Paramount+. Unfortunately, it never panned out and the show was canceled. It’s disappointing because Clarice Starling is a fascinating character and Rebecca Breeds did a decent job with her. I would have liked to see how the character and the show would have continued to develop.
So Help Me Todd
This comedic legal drama was a refreshing change of pace when it debuted in season 1. Starring Marcia Gay Hardin and Skylar Astin, So Help Me Todd felt like it was mixing things up a little bit from the standard legal drama fare and many found the bond between Margaret (Harden) and her son, Todd (Astin), quite endearing. The ending of season 2, in particular, was incredibly tense and well-written, leaving viewers on the edge of their seat as they waited to see what would happen with Merritt Folding’s arrival. So, it was a real bummer when the series was suddenly canceled.
When it comes to TV networks, CBS has delivered some all-time favorites—from hard-hitting dramas to laugh-out-loud sitcoms. But sometimes, even the best series get the axe far too early, leaving viewers stunned, frustrated, and wondering what could’ve been.
Let’s take a nostalgic dive into five CBS shows that were brimming with potential but met their demise too soon.
Why Shows Get Canceled on CBS (And It’s Not Always About Ratings)
CBS, like any major network, has a tight leash on budget, demographics, and ratings. Even with solid fan bases, some shows don’t make the cut because:
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They skew to the wrong age group
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Production costs outweigh ad revenue
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The time slot kills momentum
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Politics behind-the-scenes get messy
So while some cancellations make sense, others feel like punches to the gut.
#1: Limitless – Too Smart for Network TV?
A Sci-Fi Gem That Was Actually… Limitless
The TV spinoff of the Bradley Cooper movie had brains, charm, action—and even Cooper making guest appearances. The premise? A drug that turns you into a genius. The possibilities? Endless.
What Went Wrong?
Despite strong viewership and a creative storyline, CBS dropped it after just one season. Some say it didn’t fit the network’s core audience. But in truth? It was ahead of its time.
#2: The Crazy Ones – Robin Williams’ Last TV Role
Star Power Meets Sharp Comedy
Starring Robin Williams and Sarah Michelle Gellar, this workplace comedy had heart, humor, and some serious chemistry.
Why It Deserved More
Robin Williams gave the role his all, blending chaos and compassion in every episode. After one season, CBS pulled the plug. Fans were left devastated—not just by the cancellation but by the loss of a legend months later.
#3: Elementary – The Sherlock Holmes That Outsmarted Expectations
The Underdog Detective Show
Running for 7 seasons, this may seem like a long stint. But with loyal fans and a killer lead in Jonny Lee Miller, many argue it had more mystery to unravel.
Why It Was Cut Short
With declining ratings and CBS moving toward other franchises, Elementary was shelved despite having solid storytelling, character depth, and a devoted fan base.
The Good Fight – A Brilliant Legal Drama Cut From Broadcast
A Spin-off That Outshined the Original
Following The Good Wife, this critically acclaimed spin-off was gutsy, political, and fresh.
The CBS All Access Dilemma
Though it ran on streaming, its limited reach and platform shift meant it never got the mass love it deserved. Had CBS kept it on broadcast TV? Game-changer.
#5: Jericho – The Post-Apocalyptic Series That Refused to Die
Fans Literally Sent Peanuts to Save It
Yes, you read that right. After CBS canceled Jericho in 2007, fans sent nuts—literally bags of peanuts—to CBS HQ. It worked… for a while.
What Killed It (Again)?
Season 2 came back with promise but lacked network support. Low marketing, a bad time slot, and no faith in the show’s long-term arc led to its second (and final) death.
Other CBS Shows That Deserved More Seasons
Sometimes, one heartbreak leads to others. Here are a few honorable mentions:
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Moonlight – A vampire detective drama that was hot before Twilight fever hit.
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Angel from Hell – Quirky, chaotic, and canceled way too fast.
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Battle Creek – Crime-solving with a comedic twist that deserved more time.
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Instinct – Alan Cumming as a crime-solving author? Come on, CBS.
The Impact of Early Cancellations on Fans
TV isn’t just entertainment—it’s emotional investment. Early cancellations create:
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Frustration from unresolved plots
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Fan petitions and social media storms
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Cult fandoms that live on years after
When CBS axes a show too soon, fans don’t just move on—they mourn it.
What CBS Can Learn from These Missteps
Listen to the Fans
Modern TV thrives on fan engagement. Networks ignoring that? Risk losing loyalty and brand value.
Give Shows Room to Breathe
Not every show finds its groove by episode three. Some slow burns become fan favorites—if given a fair chance.
Could Any of These Shows Make a Comeback?
It’s not far-fetched. We’re in the era of reboots and revivals. With streaming platforms on the rise, even the most “dead” shows can come back to life.
Fan Campaigns Are Stronger Than Ever
Shows like Veronica Mars, Lucifer, and Community got second chances thanks to relentless fan love.
Final Thoughts – Some Stories Deserve More Time
CBS has been home to some incredible shows—but not all were given the endings (or seasons) they deserved. Whether due to corporate strategy or bad timing, these five shows stood out as brilliantly written, well-acted, and sorely missed.
