Last night, So Help Me Todd aired its series finale on CBS, leaving fans in shock as the show ended on a cliffhanger. With a star-studded cast featuring Marcia Gay Harden and Skylar Astin, the legal dramedy captured hearts over its two-season run. But now, with cancellation news swirling, many are left wondering what could have been. Let’s dive into what creator Scott Prendergast had to say about the abrupt ending, the plans for a potential third season, and the cliffhanger that fans are still buzzing about.
The Cliffhanger That Left Fans Wanting More
A Sudden Cancellation
After building anticipation for a third season, the news of So Help Me Todd’s cancellation came as a surprise. The show’s creators were under the impression they would be picked up for another season, which led to a dramatic finale that was left wide open.
“When we pitched out the season at the beginning of season two, we told all of the executives what we were going to do. They all said, ‘of course. That’s great,’” Prendergast explained. This optimism set the stage for a cliffhanger finale that would ultimately leave viewers hanging.
The Finale’s Dangerous Note
Prendergast wanted the finale to echo the suspense of iconic cliffhangers, saying they aimed for an “Empire Strikes Back-y end.” The decision to leave the audience in suspense was rooted in the belief that they would have the opportunity to resolve these storylines in a third season. Unfortunately, reality proved otherwise.
“By the time we knew that we were cancelled, it was too late. It’d been a month since we shot that episode. We found out on April 19. We wrapped production at the end of March,” he added. Fans are now left wondering how the stories of Margaret, Todd, and the rest of the crew would have unfolded.
What Would Season Three Have Looked Like?
Unfolding New Plotlines
While the cancellation of So Help Me Todd was disheartening, Prendergast hinted at some thrilling plotlines that could have come to fruition in a potential third season. The creator revealed intriguing details about new characters and conflicts.
A New Villain
One of the most exciting prospects was the introduction of a new antagonist, Merritt Folding. Prendergast shared that he even played the stand-in for this character.
“We were going to try and cast Joe Pantoliano, who’s a friend of Marcia’s. He was going to be the big bad for season three,” Prendergast said. This addition would have brought a new level of intrigue and tension to the show.
Legal Troubles for Margaret
Prendergast teased that Margaret would find herself in deep trouble, getting arrested for crimes she didn’t commit. This twist would have put a significant strain on the mother-son duo as Todd scrambled to clear her name.
“Todd would have to be working behind the scenes in the law firm to help clear her name. The whole family would have had to band together,” he revealed. This family-centric storyline could have taken the emotional depth of the show to new heights.
Efforts to Revive the Show
Shopping for a New Home
Despite the cancellation, there is still a glimmer of hope for So Help Me Todd fans. Prendergast and the production team are actively shopping the series to other networks. While they haven’t had any takers just yet, discussions are ongoing.
“So far, we haven’t had any takers. But they’re still talking,” Prendergast said, suggesting that the door isn’t entirely closed on the series.
Fan Support and Outcry
The show’s loyal fanbase has taken to social media to express their disappointment and hope for a revival. Hashtags like #SaveSoHelpMeTodd have gained traction as viewers rally together, urging networks to reconsider.
The Legacy of So Help Me Todd
A Heartfelt Journey
So Help Me Todd was not just another legal dramedy; it was a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, love, and resilience. The chemistry between Harden and Astin brought a unique charm to the show, making it relatable for many viewers.
The Impact on Fans
With its clever writing and emotional storytelling, the series created a lasting impression. As fans await any updates about the show’s future, they reflect on the moments that made them laugh, cry, and root for the characters.
Conclusion: A Hopeful Future
As the dust settles after So Help Me Todd’s series finale, fans are left with a sense of longing and hope. While the cancellation may have closed the door on this chapter, there’s still a chance for a new beginning. The show’s creator, Scott Prendergast, is actively pursuing options to revive the series, and the outpouring of support from fans could make a difference.
While we may have to wait and see what the future holds, one thing is clear: So Help Me Todd has left an indelible mark, and its story isn’t over just yet.
