ABC’s TV lineup: some shows are riding high, while others are skating on thin ice. Will your favorite make it, or be left out in the cold?
Ah, the soul-crushing anguish of watching a TV show you’ve poured your heart into get canceled before its time. It’s like reaching the final page of a gripping novel only to realize the last chapter has mysteriously disappeared. No closure, no satisfying resolution—just an emotional black hole where your TV joy used to be.
But ABC’s recent renewal of seven beloved shows, including Abbott Elementary and The Rookie, comes as a sigh of relief for fans who’ve invested their hearts in these characters and stories. Meanwhile, nestled within the good news is a pang of uncertainty: the fate of Doctor Odyssey remains in limbo. That’s right, the high-profile, star-studded Ryan Murphy series might get scrapped after just one season.
It’s tough when the shows you cherish are put on pause, but ABC has chosen to keep some of its crown jewels. So, which of your favorite shows will return for more seasons of drama and laughs, and which shows have we sadly relegated to the dreaded TV graveyard, never to be resurrected? Let’s dive in.
ABC’s renewed shows: A look at the latest TV report card
ABC has just handed out some juicy report cards for its lineup of TV shows, with several fan favorites passing with flying colors and securing spots for another round. The network has officially renewed seven of its scripted series, including some heavy hitters like 9-1-1 and Abbott Elementary. Let’s dive into all the details.
1. 9-1-1 – There was no surprise here. 9-1-1, the high-stakes emergency response drama, has been renewed for Season 8 (ABC News). After making a strong debut on ABC with its Season 7 premiere, which attracted 11.8 million viewers, the renewal was inevitable. Ryan Murphy’s magic touch and the show’s gripping intensity continue to make it a fan favorite.
2. Abbott Elementary – It’s official! We learned from THR that Abbott Elementary will return for its fifth season. The success of its fourth season led to the renewal of the beloved comedy, which has stolen the hearts of millions with its quirky characters and heartfelt humor. This show has become an educational staple that’s here to stay.
3. Grey’s Anatomy – After 22 seasons and countless plot twists, it looks like Grey’s Anatomy isn’t hanging up its stethoscope just yet (see The Mirror). ABC confirmed the return of this iconic medical drama for another season, ensuring that fans can continue living out their ‘what if’ medical fantasies with Meredith Grey and the rest of the crew. Deadline reports that Season 22 will feature 18 episodes, bringing back familiar faces and more emotional storytelling.
4. High Potential – This high-IQ crime procedural has been given the green light for a second season. High Potential follows Morgan (Kaitlin Olson), a cleaning lady with a 160 IQ who uses her genius to solve crimes for the LAPD. Expect more brainy crime-solving and witty banter in its upcoming season.
5. The Rookie – The Rookie is back for Season 8, proving that Nathan Fillion’s John Nolan isn’t ready to retire just yet (per Deadline). This police procedural continues to be a fan favorite, and it’s great to see it sticking around on ABC. With its consistent fanbase, The Rookie is one of those series you can rely on for a solid dose of weekly drama and action.
6. Shifting Gears – According to CBR, Shifting Gears has shifted into overdrive for a second season, despite earlier rumors that the show was on the chopping block. Despite earlier rumors of its demise, Tim Allen’s sitcom has found its groove, delivering lighthearted humor and classic Allen charm.
7. Will Trent – ABC’s Will Trent, which follows the titular detective solving complex cases, has been renewed for a fourth season. This gritty procedural has earned praise for its compelling characters and sharp storytelling. With 18 new episodes coming, fans of Ramón Rodríguez’s portrayal of Will Trent can rest easy knowing their favorite detective is sticking around.
ABC’s canceled shows: The Conners bids farewell
The Conners is saying its last goodbye. After seven seasons and 112 episodes, ABC has decided it’s time to pull the plug (via THR). Starting March 26, 2025, the show will air its final six episodes. The show, a spin-off from the ill-fated Roseanne revival, faced its share of controversy and challenges.
But despite it all, it remained ABC’s top comedy, consistently pulling in impressive Nielsen ratings. Over its run, the show’s audience grew accustomed to the family dynamics, the laughs, and yes, the heartwarming moments that made The Conners a fan favorite.
