Three weeks ago, CBS dropped a bombshell: they canceled So Help Me Todd, leaving fans shocked and heartbroken. As the series finale approaches this Thursday, May 16, at 9 p.m. ET, viewers are rallying together to fight for their favorite legal dramedy. Let’s dive into the buzz surrounding this cancellation and the passionate efforts to secure a renewal.
The Cancellation Shockwave
When CBS announced its decision to axe So Help Me Todd, many fans were left scratching their heads. With so many hit shows on the network, the competition for airtime is fierce. The network’s reasoning boiled down to a classic dilemma: too many successful series, not enough slots on the primetime schedule.
This cancellation comes just as CBS prepares to launch the long-awaited reboot of Matlock, starring Kathy Bates, which will take over the time slot previously occupied by So Help Me Todd. It’s a move that has frustrated loyal fans, who feel that replacing one legal-themed show with another isn’t fair, especially when So Help Me Todd has carved out its unique niche.
Why Fans Are Rallying
The news of cancellation sparked outrage and determination among the show’s dedicated fanbase. A petition titled “Renew So Help Me Todd for a 3rd Season” quickly gained traction on change.org, surpassing its initial goal of 25,000 signatures. As of now, over 27,000 fans have come together to voice their support for a renewal by CBS or a potential pickup by another network.
Not stopping there, a second petition has emerged, urging The CW to take a chance on the show, and it’s nearing the 5,000-signature mark. With combined efforts, the total number of signatures across all petitions is approaching an impressive 53,000. This passionate display shows just how invested fans are in seeing Todd and his quirky world continue.
The Case for Renewal
Fans aren’t just signing petitions for the sake of it; they have solid reasons for wanting So Help Me Todd to stick around. Nielsen ratings indicate that the show has been performing well, especially considering its time slot. The next-to-last episode, airing out of Young Sheldon, attracted 4.41 million viewers on May 9. This made it the top show in its time period, outperforming heavyweights like Law & Order: SVU and Grey’s Anatomy.
These numbers paint a clear picture: there’s an audience for So Help Me Todd. CBS’s decision to cancel a show with such a dedicated viewership seems counterintuitive, especially when compared to the underwhelming ratings of other shows in the same genre.
A Natural Fit for The CW
Given The CW’s shift toward international programming, So Help Me Todd could be a perfect fit. The show comes with an established fanbase, which is a significant advantage for any network looking to fill its roster. In a time when audiences crave content that resonates with them, So Help Me Todd represents a unique opportunity.
Moreover, CBS’s streaming partner, Paramount+, could also be a potential landing spot for the show. With its track record of moving successful series like Evil from CBS to Paramount+, fans remain hopeful that So Help Me Todd could follow suit, finding new life on a streaming platform.
Historical Precedents
The battle to save So Help Me Todd isn’t unprecedented. History shows that fan campaigns can indeed influence networks to reconsider their decisions. Just look at shows like Star Trek, Cagney & Lacey, Lucifer, and Sense8. These series benefited from passionate fan movements, ultimately leading to revivals or reboots.
Fans of So Help Me Todd are channeling this spirit of determination. Social media has provided a platform for fans to voice their opinions, share their love for the show, and rally support for its renewal. The power of fandom is real, and it has proven effective time and time again.
Engaging the Audience
To keep the momentum going, fans have taken to social media, utilizing hashtags and creating online communities to discuss their love for So Help Me Todd. These platforms have become hubs for sharing thoughts, theories, and support for the show.
Encouraging discussions and sharing favorite moments from the series helps maintain the show’s presence in the public eye. Every tweet, post, or TikTok video amplifies the message: So Help Me Todd deserves another chance.
Conclusion: The Fight Continues
As the series finale approaches, the fight to save So Help Me Todd is far from over. Fans are united in their quest for renewal, armed with petitions and a passionate voice. With over 53,000 signatures and strong ratings backing their cause, it’s clear that So Help Me Todd has a dedicated audience that wants to see more.
Whether CBS or another network steps in to rescue this beloved series remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the fans will continue to make their voices heard. With determination and creativity, they’re proving that the fight for their favorite shows can indeed make a difference.
