15 TV Series Canceled After On-Set Abuse Allegations

Television networks usually hesitate to cancel a hit show, but severe allegations of abuse or misconduct can force their hand overnight. The following series were abruptly ended or effectively dismantled after cast members, creators, or production teams faced credible accusations of wrongdoing. These cancellations often left storylines unresolved and crews unemployed as studios scrambled to distance themselves from the controversy.

‘Roseanne’ (2018)

ABC revived this classic sitcom to massive ratings before its sudden cancellation. The network axed the series after star Roseanne Barr posted a racist statement on Twitter regarding former Obama advisor Valerie Jarrett. Executives described the comment as abhorrent and inconsistent with their values. The cancellation occurred despite the show being the highest-rated series of the season.

‘House of Cards’ (2013–2018)

Netflix suspended production on this political drama following sexual misconduct allegations against lead actor Kevin Spacey. The streaming service severed ties with the star and removed him from the final season. Writers had to completely rework the storyline to focus on Robin Wright as the new lead character. The show concluded with a truncated sixth season that struggled to find its footing without its original protagonist.

’19 Kids and Counting’ (2008–2015)

TLC canceled this reality hit after police reports revealed that eldest son Josh Duggar had molested several underage girls including his sisters. The network faced immense pressure from advertisers and the public to remove the family from the airwaves. This scandal exposed the dark secrets hidden behind the wholesome image the show attempted to project. The series ended immediately as the network sought to distance itself from the controversy.

‘Wisdom of the Crowd’ (2017–2018)

CBS declined to order additional episodes of this crime procedural after multiple women accused star Jeremy Piven of sexual assault. The network allowed the initial thirteen episodes to air but effectively canceled the series by dismantling the production sets. Ratings were modest but the allegations made continuing the project impossible for the network. Piven denied the claims yet the show could not survive the negative publicity.

‘Here Comes Honey Boo Boo’ (2012–2014)

This reality spinoff became a cultural phenomenon before TLC shut it down due to child safety concerns. Reports surfaced that matriarch June Shannon had rekindled a relationship with a man convicted of molesting her eldest daughter. The network stated that supporting the health and welfare of the children was their priority. Filming for a new season had already finished but those episodes never made it to air.

‘Louie’ (2010–2015)

FX ended its relationship with comedian Louis C.K. after he admitted to several acts of sexual misconduct. The network had previously granted him creative freedom but could not ignore the severity of the allegations confirmed by the New York Times. This decision effectively canceled his acclaimed semi-autobiographical series along with other projects in development. The show had been on an extended hiatus that became permanent following his admission.

‘The Royals’ (2015–2018)

The first scripted drama for E! ended after four seasons following sexual harassment allegations against showrunner Mark Schwahn. Cast and crew members detailed a toxic environment orchestrated by the creator during his time on this show and previous projects. The network fired Schwahn after an internal investigation concluded the claims were substantiated. Producers attempted to shop the series to other networks but failed to find a new home.

‘Luck’ (2012)

HBO canceled this horse racing drama after three horses died during the production of its first season. The network decided that they could not guarantee the safety of the animals despite safety protocols in place. Animal rights organizations like PETA had heavily criticized the production and urged for its termination. The cancellation came as a shock since the series had already been renewed for a second season.

‘Megan Wants a Millionaire’ (2009)

VH1 pulled this reality dating show off the air after contestant Ryan Jenkins was identified as a suspect in a murder investigation. Jenkins had finished filming the series and was allegedly a finalist before he killed his wife and later himself. The network also canceled a second show featuring Jenkins and overhauled their background check procedures. This tragedy marked a turning point in how reality television casts were vetted.

‘Charlie Rose’ (1991–2017)

PBS and Bloomberg Television immediately suspended distribution of this long-running interview program after sexual harassment allegations surfaced. Eight women accused the host of making unwanted sexual advances and walking around naked in their presence. The show was permanently canceled within twenty-four hours of the initial report by the Washington Post. His firing ended decades of broadcasting history due to the toxic workplace culture he created.

‘Bulletproof’ (2018–2021)

Sky halted production on the fourth season of this police procedural following misconduct allegations against lead actor Noel Clarke. The Guardian published accounts from twenty women who accused the actor of sexual harassment and bullying. The network stated they would not proceed with any future series involving Clarke. Distribution partners also pulled the existing seasons from streaming services in light of the accusations.

‘Paula’s Best Dishes’ (2008–2013)

Food Network decided not to renew the contract of its southern cooking star after she admitted to using racial slurs. The deposition from a discrimination lawsuit revealed that Paula Deen had used derogatory language and envisioned a plantation-style wedding. Companies like Walmart and Target quickly dropped her product lines following the admission. The cancellation swept away her entire programming slate on the channel almost overnight.

‘Counting On’ (2016–2020)

TLC canceled this spinoff series after Josh Duggar was arrested on federal charges regarding child sexual abuse materials. The show had originally been created to follow the other siblings as they moved past the initial family scandal. Network executives decided that they could no longer give the family a platform after this second major criminal case. The cancellation ended over a decade of the Duggar family appearing on the network.

‘Sam & Cat’ (2013–2014)

Nickelodeon canceled this popular teen sitcom despite high ratings amid reports of a toxic behind-the-scenes environment. Star Jennette McCurdy later revealed in her memoir that she faced emotional abuse and exploitation from a creator referred to as The Creator. Tensions on set were further exacerbated by salary disputes and unfair treatment compared to her co-star. The network ended the show after just one expanded season rather than addressing the core workplace issues.

‘Live PD’ (2016–2020)

A&E canceled this top-rated police reality show following protests against police brutality and the death of George Floyd. The series faced specific scrutiny for destroying footage related to the death of Javier Ambler in police custody. Network executives determined that the format was out of step with the national conversation regarding law enforcement. The cancellation removed one of the most watched programs on cable television at the time.

Let us know in the comments which of these cancellations shocked you the most.