If there’s one thing FOX is known for, besides launching some of TV’s biggest hits, it’s breaking hearts by canceling shows before they’ve had a chance to truly shine. Over the years, the network has developed a bit of a reputation for pulling the rug out from under fan-favorite series, often axing them just as they were gaining momentum or finding their audience.
Whether it was due to low ratings, poor scheduling, or simply bad luck, these shows never received the full run they truly deserved. Many of these series had compelling storylines, talented casts, and dedicated fan bases that clamored for more, only to be left with cliffhangers or unfinished arcs. The cancellations left a lasting impact on viewers, sparking debates about what could have been if FOX had given these shows more time to grow.
In this article, we’re diving into four such shows that deserved a longer lease on life and continue to hold a special place in fans’ hearts.
Prodigal Son
Prodigal Son deserved so much better, and it's a shame that FOX didn't see its potential. In May 2021, the network axed the crime drama after only two seasons. There was even a "Save Prodigal Son" campaign launched by fans after the show was canceled, but it still wasn't enough to reverse the decision. Despite the passionate outcry and strong fan support, the series ended prematurely, leaving many storylines unresolved. Unfortunately, we'll never know Martin's fate after that brutal stabbing.
Prodigal Son centers around Malcolm Bright, a former FBI profiler with a troubled past who must confront his estranged father, Martin Whitly, an infamous serial killer known as "the Surgeon, as he helps the NYPD solve violent and twisted crimes.
The Big Leap
Following the success of Glee, FOX tried its hand at another musical comedy drama series with The Big Leap. However, despite critical praise and a dedicated fan base, the show struggled with low ratings and was canceled after just one season in March 2022, leaving many viewers disappointed and hoping for more.
The Big Leap stars Scott Foley as Nick Blackburn, a TV producer in desperate need of a hit show to revive his struggling career. He puts together a reality dance show competition, where a group of everyday people, each facing personal setbacks and searching for a fresh start, come together to train for a televised production of Swan Lake.
The Mick
Lately, you might’ve found yourself watching Kaitlin Olson shine on ABC’s High Potential, where she plays a single mom with a genius-level knack for solving crimes. But before she was solving mysteries, she was wreaking hilarious havoc as Mickey in The Mick. Sadly, the comedy sitcom didn't get the chance to reach its full potential. FOX made the decision to give the show the boot after just two seasons in May 2018. Although the exact reason for its cancellation has never been revealed, poor viewership is believed to have played a major role.
Olson takes on the role of Mackenzie "Mickey" Molng, a rough-around-the-edges, foul-mouthed woman who suddenly finds herself responsible for her wealthy sister’s three rebellious children after she leaves them behind to flee the country to avoid federal fraud charges.
Pitch
I'm still not over Pitch's cancellation, and unfortunately, its demise is believed to have been largely due to low ratings. Despite its fresh take on sports drama and the powerful story of Ginny Baker breaking barriers as the first female MLB player, the show never quite captured the mainstream audience it deserved, leaving fans disappointed and craving more. FOX announced its cancellation after just one season back in May 2017. Series creator Dan Fogelman even attempted to get a potential revival series up and running, but plans ultimately fell through.
Big Sky's Kylie Bunbury stars as Ginny Baker, the first woman to play in Major League Baseball. Throughout the first season, viewers watch as Ginny battles not only fierce competition on the field but also the challenges of breaking into a male-dominated sport.