Nielsen’s list of the most watched shows in total viewers and among adults 18-49 for the 2024-2025 season, with 35 days of linear and streaming viewing, is out, and it proves, at least when it comes to those on the former list, that bringing in viewers doesn’t mean a show will remain on the air.
Eleven canceled shows and one still in limbo shows make the list among total viewers. Blue Bloods, which ended after 14 seasons in December 2024, is the first to show up, at number 38. Other canceled shows on the list are four more CBS dramas (FBI: Most Wanted at 50, FBI: International and The Equalizer at 55, and S.W.A.T. at 68), 9-1-1: Lone Star (69), two NBC shows (The Irrational at 82 and Found at 90), two Prime Video series (The Bondsman at 90 and On Call at 94), and The Conners (96). There are three Dick Wolf shows.
ABC has yet to make a decision about Doctor Odyssey. The latest from the network was “creative conversations are on-going” on May 13, 2025. It’s the 62nd most-watched show among total viewers of the 2024-2025 season in 35 days of viewing. Two of the aforementioned shows also are in the top 100 of the most-watched among adults 18-49: On Call at 73 and The Bondsman at 83. The Wheel of Time also makes that list, at 98.
There are some notable differences when comparing the top 10 for both lists. Squid Game and Adolescence hold the top two spots for both total viewers and adults 18-49, but those are the only ones that are the same. (Reacher, Landman, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, and Nobody Wants This are on both lists.) There are three broadcast shows — Tracker, High Potential, and Matlock — on the total viewers list’s top 10, whereas among adults 18-49, the first one is in the 14th spot (High Potential).
When it comes to other broadcast shows, the three One Chicago shows (Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med) and NCISes (the mothership, Origins, and Sydney) make the total viewers list but not adults 18-49. 9-1-1 is on both lists, but higher for total viewers (25 vs. 43). See the full list of the top 100 most-watched shows of 2024-2025 across 35 days here. Ever felt like your favorite show just disappeared into thin air? You’re not alone. In the 2024–2025 TV season, some of the most-watched and loved shows were unexpectedly canceled, leaving fans confused and craving answers. Shows like Blue Bloods, FBI: International, Found, and several others had strong followings, solid ratings, and yet—they didn’t make the cut.
So, what’s really happening behind the curtain of network television?
Let’s dive into the reasons, the data, and the aftermath of these unexpected cancellations.
Why Are Successful Shows Being Canceled?
It sounds backward, right? A show is topping the charts, trending on social media, and then poof—it’s gone. Here’s what’s really going on.
Changing Business Models
Networks are shifting from traditional advertising revenue to streaming-based models. What does that mean? A show might be popular on cable, but if it doesn’t bring in streaming value, it gets cut.
Production Costs vs. Profitability
Take Blue Bloods, for example. After 14 seasons, the cost of production (cast salaries, sets, licensing) skyrocketed. Even high ratings couldn’t offset the hefty price tag.
Top Canceled Shows of 2024–2025
Let’s break down the biggest names that got the boot this year.
Blue Bloods (CBS)
This long-running police procedural was a fan favorite. Despite solid Friday night ratings, CBS called it quits due to budget constraints and evolving content strategies.
FBI: International (CBS)
One of the FBI franchise’s most action-packed spinoffs. While still pulling in decent numbers, CBS pulled the plug citing franchise fatigue and a new content direction.
Found (NBC)
A standout drama with a compelling premise. Critics praised it, fans loved it—but NBC still canceled it. Why? Licensing issues and lack of long-term streaming deals.
Fan Reactions & Online Backlash
Hashtag Wars on Twitter (X)
As soon as cancellation news dropped, fans took to social media. Hashtags like #SaveBlueBloods and #BringBackFound trended globally within hours.
Petitions and Protests
Change.org saw thousands of signatures demanding networks to renew their favorite shows. But unfortunately, digital petitions rarely move the corporate needle.
What Networks Are Saying
CBS’s Strategy Shift
CBS is pivoting toward younger demographics and cheaper unscripted content like game shows and reality TV. Survivor, The Amazing Race, and other franchises are now the priority.
NBC’s Content Reshuffle
NBC is investing heavily in Peacock Originals. Traditional prime-time dramas like Found aren’t aligning with the platform’s long-term goals.
How Streaming Services Impact Cancellation Decisions
Streaming Analytics Over Traditional Ratings
Gone are the days when Nielsen ratings ruled. Today, it’s all about watch time, completion rate, and subscriber retention. If a show isn’t binging well, it’s done.
Licensing Nightmares
Some shows are produced by external studios. If networks don’t own the content, renewing a series becomes a legal and financial maze.
Is There Any Hope for Revival?
Potential Pickups by Streaming Giants
Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu have rescued shows before. Could they do it again? Possibly. But only if the data backs up the investment.
The Power of the Fandom
Strong, engaged communities can make a difference—Firefly, Lucifer, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine all got second chances. So, never say never.
Hidden Gems That Might Replace the Canceled Hits
Not all hope is lost! These newer shows might fill the void:
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Elsbeth (CBS): A quirky spinoff from The Good Wife universe.
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Tracker (CBS): A procedural with a fresh twist.
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The Irrational (NBC): A psychological drama making waves.
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Wolf (FOX): A high-octane medical crime series.
Lessons from the 2024–2025 TV Season
Viewership Isn’t Everything
Your loyalty to a show might not be enough to keep it on air. Business comes first in Hollywood.
Adapt or Get Canceled
Even successful franchises need to evolve. If they don’t stay culturally relevant, they risk becoming yesterday’s news.
What You Can Do as a Viewer
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Stream legally: It affects ratings more than cable nowadays.
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Use social media power: Hashtags and trends work.
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Subscribe to newsletters and platforms: Show the network you care with your wallet.
Final Thoughts
The 2024–2025 TV season delivered a serious shake-up. While it’s heartbreaking to say goodbye to Blue Bloods, FBI: International, Found, and more, it also opens the door for new stories, new talent, and new formats. TV is changing, and we’re right in the middle of its next big evolution.
But hey, who says endings are always bad? Sometimes, they lead to better beginnings.
