15 TV Shows That Became Hits Years After They Were Canceled

Some TV shows don’t get the love they deserve when they first air. Low ratings or network decisions can cut them short, but years later, they find new life through streaming, reruns, or passionate fan campaigns.

These shows often build loyal followings long after their final episodes, proving that great storytelling can endure. From sci-fi adventures to quirky comedies, here are 15 series that became hits years after they were canceled.

Firefly (2002-2003)

Joss Whedon’s ‘Firefly’ follows a ragtag crew aboard a spaceship in a futuristic universe. Canceled after just 14 episodes due to poor initial ratings, it struggled to find an audience on Fox.

Years later, DVD sales and reruns sparked a cult following. Fans loved its blend of Western and sci-fi vibes, leading to the 2005 film ‘Serenity’ to wrap up loose ends. Its fanbase remains fierce today.

Arrested Development (2003-2006, 2013-2019)

‘Arrested Development’ is a comedy about the dysfunctional Bluth family navigating financial ruin. Fox axed it after three seasons due to low viewership, despite critical praise.

Netflix revived it in 2013 after fans kept its quirky humor alive through DVDs and online buzz. The revival ran for two more seasons, cementing its status as a cult classic.

Futurama (1999-2003, 2008-2013, 2023-Present)

Matt Groening’s animated sci-fi comedy ‘Futurama’ follows a pizza delivery guy waking up in the year 3000. Fox canceled it in 2003, but strong DVD sales and syndication kept it alive.

Comedy Central brought it back in 2008, and Hulu revived it again in 2023. Its sharp humor and emotional depth made it a fan favorite over time.

Veronica Mars (2004-2007, 2019)

‘Veronica Mars’ stars Kristen Bell as a teen detective in a noir-inspired drama. Canceled by The CW after three seasons, it gained a massive following through streaming and word of mouth.

A 2014 Kickstarter-funded movie and a 2019 Hulu season rewarded loyal fans. Its witty dialogue and strong lead keep it beloved today.

The Expanse (2015-2022)

‘The Expanse’ is a gritty sci-fi drama about political tensions in a colonized solar system. Syfy dropped it after three seasons due to high costs, but fans rallied hard.

Amazon Prime picked it up for three more seasons, fueled by growing buzz. Its complex story and rich world-building earned it a lasting fanbase.

Family Guy (1999-2002, 2005-Present)

Seth MacFarlane’s animated comedy ‘Family Guy’ was canceled by Fox after three seasons due to inconsistent ratings. Its crude humor didn’t click with everyone at first.

Syndication and DVD sales exploded, leading to its revival in 2005. It’s still running, proving its staying power as a pop culture staple.

Jericho (2006-2008)

‘Jericho’ is a post-apocalyptic drama about a small town surviving a nuclear attack. CBS canceled it after one season, but fans sent thousands of peanuts to the network in protest.

The campaign won a second season, and streaming later boosted its popularity. Its intense storytelling still resonates with viewers.

Star Trek (1966-1969)

‘Star Trek’ introduced a bold sci-fi universe with Captain Kirk and Spock. NBC canceled it after three seasons due to low ratings, despite its innovative ideas.

Reruns in the 1970s built a massive fanbase, spawning movies and spin-offs. Its cultural impact continues to shape sci-fi today.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013-2021)

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ is a workplace comedy about a New York police precinct. Fox canceled it after five seasons, but fan outcry on social media was swift.

NBC picked it up for three more seasons, and its diverse cast and sharp humor made it a streaming hit. It’s now a modern comedy classic.

Twin Peaks (1990-1991, 2017)

David Lynch’s ‘Twin Peaks’ is a surreal mystery about a small town’s dark secrets. ABC canceled it after two seasons due to declining ratings and its odd style.

Home video and streaming revived its cult status, leading to a 2017 Showtime season. Its unique vibe still captivates audiences.

Lucifer (2016-2021)

‘Lucifer’ follows the devil as a charming nightclub owner solving crimes. Fox canceled it after three seasons, but fans launched a #SaveLucifer campaign.

Netflix revived it for three more seasons, where it thrived with bolder storytelling. Its mix of humor and drama keeps fans hooked.

7th Heaven (1996-2007)

‘7th Heaven’ is a family drama about a pastor’s large family facing life’s challenges. The CW canceled it after 10 seasons, but picked it up for one more due to fan demand.

Reruns on family-friendly networks kept it popular, especially for its wholesome themes. It remains a nostalgic favorite for many.

Farscape (1999-2003)

‘Farscape’ is a sci-fi adventure about an astronaut stranded in a strange universe. SciFi Channel canceled it after four seasons, leaving a major cliffhanger.

Fan campaigns led to a miniseries finale, and streaming platforms boosted its cult status. Its quirky characters and bold storytelling endure.

Community (2009-2015)

‘Community’ is a quirky comedy about a group of misfits at a community college. NBC canceled it after five seasons, but Yahoo! Screen aired a sixth.

Streaming on Netflix and Hulu grew its fanbase, with fans still hoping for a movie. Its clever humor and meta style keep it fresh.

Longmire (2012-2017)

‘Longmire’ is a modern Western about a Wyoming sheriff solving crimes. A&E canceled it after three seasons, despite steady viewership.

Netflix revived it for three more, driven by fan support and strong streaming numbers. Its grounded storytelling and strong lead keep it popular.

Which of these shows is your favorite, or did I miss one that deserves a comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments!