October 2025 has been a surprisingly dramatic month for television fans. While fall is usually quiet when it comes to renewal and cancellation announcements — networks typically make big decisions in spring — this month still delivered a solid mix of shocking cancellations, long-awaited renewals, and a few “soft endings” quietly confirmed behind the scenes.
So whether you’re trying to see if your favorite series is safe — or preparing tissues for heartbreak — here’s the ultimate list of every major renewed, canceled, or ending TV show announced in October 2025, across broadcast networks (CBS, NBC, ABC), cable (FX, HBO), and streaming platforms (Netflix, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video).
✅ Renewed / Returning Shows (Confirmed in October 2025)
Paramount+ – Lioness Renewed for Season 3
After months of silence and speculation, Lioness officially scored a Season 3 renewal. Insider reports claim the delay was due to scheduling conflicts involving Nicole Kidman — but mission success: the operation continues.
Amazon Prime – Ballard Renewed for Season 2
This noir-style detective thriller quietly built a loyal following, and Amazon rewarded it with a second season order on October 3rd. If you love Reacher, this one belongs on your list.
Great American Family – When Hope Calls: Brookfield Gets a Third Season
Proof that wholesome drama still has power in 2025. While action series fight for survival, this heartwarming small-town show marches on.
❌ Canceled or Ending Shows (Announced in October 2025)
Netflix – The Ultimatum: Queer Love Canceled After 2 Seasons
Despite its passionate fanbase, Netflix shut down the LGBTQ+ reality show after failing to boost viewership in Season 2. Expect petitions soon.
Showtime / Paramount+ – The Chi to End with Season 8
Not exactly a “cancellation,” but definitely an ending. Showtime confirmed the long-running drama will conclude after one final season.
📺 Status of the Big Broadcast Networks
While CBS, NBC, and ABC didn’t announce fresh cancellations this month, their 2025–26 schedules made it clear which shows are safe — and which ones quietly vanished.
| Network | Returning Shows (Safe) | Shows No Longer Returning (Considered Canceled) |
|---|---|---|
| CBS | FBI, Ghosts, NCIS, Young Sheldon Spin-off | FBI: International, FBI: Most Wanted, The Equalizer, S.W.A.T. |
| NBC | Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med, Law & Order franchises | Some comedies from 2024 quietly disappeared, no renewals announced |
| ABC | Abbott Elementary, Grey’s Anatomy, 9-1-1 | Doctor Odyssey officially scrapped |
HBO & FX – Quiet, But Not Silent
Unlike streaming platforms, prestige cable networks rarely announce cancellations loudly — they simply stop talking about a show. However:
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HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones is confirmed to end after Season 4.
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FX has yet to renew several mid-range performers — news likely coming early 2026.
🚨 On the Watch List – Shows Still Awaiting a Verdict
| Show | Network | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Only Murders in the Building | Hulu | Renewal expected, but not confirmed |
| Emily in Paris | Netflix | Risk of cancellation after declining Season 5 numbers |
| Reacher | Amazon | Highly likely to return |
Final Thoughts: Should You Celebrate or Panic?
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🎉 If you’re a Lioness, Ballard, or Chicago universe fan — good news, your watchlist is safe.
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😢 If you loved The Ultimatum: Queer Love — condolences.
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⏳ If your favorite show wasn’t mentioned — welcome to the Schrödinger’s TV Zone. It’s both dead and alive until further notice.
Want a November update when the next wave hits?
Let me know — I can turn this into a monthly “TV Survival Report” series.
