These 15 Canceled TV Shows From the Last 5 Years Deserved Better
Great TV shows can pull you in with unique stories and characters, only to disappear before they reach their full potential. In the last five years, many series with fresh ideas and devoted fans were cut short, leaving me wanting more.
From clever comedies to bold sci-fi, these shows had something special. Here’s a look at 15 canceled TV shows from 2020 to 2025 that deserved a longer run, each with a spark that made them unforgettable.
My Lady Jane (2024)
This Prime Video series reimagined Lady Jane Grey’s story as a sharp, romantic fantasy. Emily Bader and Edward Bluemel brought wit and chemistry to a world of royal schemes and magical twists.
Canceled after one season, it left a cliffhanger that still stings. The show’s playful tone and vibrant cast had so much more to give. I’m dying to know how Jane’s story could’ve unfolded.
Outer Range (2022-2024)
Prime Video’s sci-fi Western followed a rancher, played by Josh Brolin, uncovering a mysterious void in Wyoming. Its blend of gritty drama and cosmic weirdness kept me glued to the screen.
Axed after two seasons, it ended with unresolved mysteries. The show’s bold genre mix and strong performances deserved another season. I still wonder what that void was hiding.
The Wheel of Time (2021-2025)
Based on Robert Jordan’s books, this Prime Video fantasy epic starred Rosamund Pike as Moiraine, guiding heroes through a rich magical world. Its deep lore and diverse cast hooked me fast.
Canceled after three seasons, it stopped short of its grand potential. The show could’ve been a fantasy titan with more time. I’m gutted we won’t see the full saga play out.
High Fidelity (2020)
Hulu’s reboot of the classic film starred Zoë Kravitz as a record store owner navigating love and music. Her raw, relatable performance carried a story that felt fresh and honest.
Ended after one season, it never got to stretch its wings. The mix of heart, humor, and killer playlists left me wanting more. I still think about Rob’s next chapter.
1899 (2022)
This Netflix mystery, from the creators of ‘Dark’, followed a steamboat’s passengers caught in a cryptic puzzle. Its eerie vibe and global cast promised something groundbreaking.
Canceled after one season, it left too many questions unanswered. The show’s ambition and haunting style deserved a longer run. I’m still curious about that ship’s secrets.
Our Flag Means Death (2022-2023)
Max’s pirate comedy mixed absurd humor with a touching queer romance between Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard. Rhys Darby and Taika Waititi made every moment a joy.
Axed after two seasons, it rushed to a bittersweet end. Its inclusive heart and quirky charm deserved more episodes. I miss that chaotic crew sailing the seas.
GLOW (2017-2020)
This Netflix dramedy about 1980s women’s wrestling blended campy fun with real emotion. Alison Brie led a diverse cast, tackling friendship, fame, and personal growth.
Canceled after three seasons due to pandemic issues, it left stories hanging. The show’s unique energy and strong characters begged for a proper finale. I wanted more of those wrestling queens.
The Wilds (2020-2022)
Amazon’s drama followed teen girls stranded on an island, weaving survival with mystery. Its sharp writing and young ensemble dug into raw, messy emotions.
Ended after two seasons, it didn’t resolve its biggest twists. The show’s bold take on trauma and friendship deserved more time. I’m still curious about that island’s secrets.
I Know What You Did Last Summer (2021)
This Prime Video series reimagined the classic slasher as a modern teen thriller. Its diverse cast and twisty plot brought fresh energy to a familiar story.
Canceled after one season, it left mysteries unsolved. The show’s mix of scares and drama had potential to grow. I wanted to see where those secrets led.
Paper Girls (2022)
Prime Video’s sci-fi drama followed four girls caught in a time-travel adventure. Based on the comic, its heartfelt story and 1980s vibe were instantly engaging.
Axed after one season, it never got to explore its full scope. The show’s mix of nostalgia and bold ideas deserved more episodes. I’m still rooting for those time-traveling teens.
Willow (2022-2023)
Disney+’s fantasy sequel to the 1988 film brought back Warwick Davis as Willow, leading a new quest. Its magical world and charming cast felt like a warm return to a classic.
Canceled after one season, it left adventures untold. The show’s heart and epic scope deserved a longer journey. I wanted more of that enchanting world.
The Society (2019-2020)
Netflix’s teen drama trapped kids in a mysterious replica of their town, blending chaos with coming-of-age themes. Its bold story and young cast kept me hooked.
Canceled after one season due to pandemic delays, it ended on a cliffhanger. The show’s unique premise deserved a proper resolution. I’m still wondering what was really going on.
Archive 81 (2022)
This Netflix horror series followed an archivist, played by Mamoudou Athie, unraveling a creepy mystery through old tapes. Its eerie vibe and slow-burn suspense were gripping.
Axed after one season, it left its supernatural story unfinished. The show’s bold atmosphere deserved more time to unravel. I still think about those chilling tapes.
First Kill (2022)
Netflix’s queer vampire romance followed a teen vampire and a monster hunter falling in love. Its fresh spin on supernatural tropes and diverse cast felt exciting.
Canceled after one season, it didn’t get to explore its full potential. The show’s heart and bold ideas deserved more episodes. I wanted to see that romance grow.
The Midnight Club (2022)
Netflix’s horror drama, from Mike Flanagan, followed terminally ill teens sharing spooky stories. Its mix of heart and chills built a haunting, emotional world.
Ended after one season, it left stories untold. The show’s unique blend of horror and hope deserved a longer run. I miss those late-night tales.
Which canceled show do you wish had another season, or did I miss one that deserved more love? Drop your thoughts in the comments!