The recent news that CBS canceled the Portland-set TV show “So Help Me Todd” after just two seasons has left fans deeply disappointed. The comedy-drama, centered around Todd Wright, a free-spirited private investigator played by Skylar Astin, and his rule-abiding attorney mother, Margaret Wright, portrayed by Oscar-winner Marcia Gay Harden, had developed a dedicated following. Created by Scott Prendergast, a longtime Portland-area resident, the series was set in Portland, Oregon (though it was primarily filmed in British Columbia) and featured many references to the Rose City.
Rather than merely lamenting the show’s end, passionate fans are actively campaigning to save “So Help Me Todd.” One such effort is a petition on Change.org titled “Save So Help Me Todd on CBS,” which urges CBS to reconsider its decision. The petition emphasizes the show’s family-friendly nature and how it provides a refreshing contrast to the darker, more intense dramas that dominate TV. One supporter described the series as “unique, clean, uplifting, and so refreshing in today’s bogged-down, anxiety-filled entertainment world,” and highlighted its appeal to viewers of all ages.
Fans have expressed their frustration over CBS’s decision to cancel the show, criticizing the network for airing too many procedural dramas like “CSI” and “NCIS” while eliminating more lighthearted and original programming like “So Help Me Todd.” One fan suggested, “Try a different time slot and get rid of one or two of the 16 ‘NCIS’ shows,” emphasizing that “So Help Me Todd” provided something different: clever, fun, and original storytelling with characters that showed growth and change.
Another petition, titled “Renew So Help Me Todd for a 3rd season,” also on Change.org, presents a detailed list of reasons why the show deserves to be renewed. The petition highlights the show’s diverse cast and its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics, which resonated with viewers looking for meaningful and positive stories on television.
Beyond the petitions, a Facebook group has also been created, dedicated to rallying support and organizing efforts to revive the show.
Meanwhile, Scott Prendergast, the show’s creator, expressed his gratitude for the love and support from fans, as well as the dedication of the cast, crew, and everyone involved in bringing “So Help Me Todd” to life. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Prendergast shared, “I took a story about me and my Mom and hundreds of people came together to build it into something else, something huge, something beautiful, something funny. Thank you to everyone involved, and to all our viewers. One million thank yous will never be enough.”
As fans continue their campaign, it remains to be seen whether their efforts will convince CBS—or perhaps another network or streaming service—to give “So Help Me Todd” a new lease on life.
