Category: Entertainment | Title: Cancelled TV Shows 2017 18 Season Endings and Network Decisions | Tag: TV cancellations | Meta Description: Fact-based list of cancelled TV shows from the 2017 18 season with network decisions, ratings, and renewal outcomes...
Major Broadcast Cancellations in the 2017 18 Season
Several broadcast series ended after the 2017 18 television season due to low ratings and strategic decisions by networks. Networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox canceled multiple scripted programs that failed to reach audience thresholds or fit updated lineup plans. Forbes reported the cancellations as part of a broader shift toward younger demographics and cost-efficient programming.
Ratings and Cost Factors
Low live-plus-same-day ratings and weak advertiser demand often triggered cancellations. Production costs, especially for hour-long dramas and high-concept comedies, pushed networks to favor fewer, higher-performing series.
Cable and Streaming Cancellations
Cable channels and early streaming platforms also removed shows from their schedules during the 2017 18 window. Decisions were tied to subscriber growth targets, content licensing expenses, and the need to make room for original series with stronger retention metrics. The Hollywood Reporter detailed the cable and streaming cuts alongside broadcast moves.
Subscriber and Content Strategy
Streaming services weighed the cost of producing new originals against the performance of existing library titles. Cable networks focused on programs that drove consistent weekly viewership and complemented flagship franchises.
Renewal Outcomes and Network Strategy Shifts
Some series were renewed for additional seasons while others were canceled despite solid critical reception, reflecting the balance between creative value and business performance. Networks used audience retention data, international sales, and streaming potential to justify renewal or cancellation decisions. Nielsen data explained the ratings context behind these outcomes.
Impact on Production and Talent
Cancellation announcements affected production schedules, crew employment, and talent contracts. Studios and production companies adjusted development pipelines to align with renewed network priorities and emerging platform demand.
Long-Term Industry Effects
The 2017 18 cancellations contributed to a more competitive landscape where audience fragmentation and platform competition shaped which shows survived. SEC filings from media companies highlighted how content spending and portfolio decisions influenced these outcomes.