In a surprising turn of events, CBS has officially cancelled So Help Me Todd, putting an end to the show’s journey after just two seasons. Fans of the legal dramedy, which stars Marcia Gay Harden and Skylar Astin, are left reeling as the network announced that the series will not return for a third season during the 2024-25 TV lineup. Let’s take a closer look at what made the show special, its journey, and the reactions from the cast and crew.
The Heart of the Show: Family and Law
So Help Me Todd tells the story of Margaret Wright, a sharp and accomplished attorney played by Marcia Gay Harden. Fresh off a tumultuous divorce, she reluctantly invites her son Todd (Skylar Astin) to join her law firm as an in-house investigator. Todd, who has had a rocky past as a private detective, adds a layer of scrappy ingenuity to Margaret’s strict, law-abiding approach. Their contrasting styles lead to both comedic and dramatic moments, serving as a backdrop for their fragile mother-son relationship.
Season Two Developments
In its second season, Todd finds a new direction by regaining his private investigator license and embarking on the journey to start his own business. This storyline not only showcased Todd’s growth but also emphasized the complex family dynamics that kept viewers engaged. However, despite the narrative evolution and character development, the ratings didn’t quite match expectations.
The Ratings Struggle
As So Help Me Todd returned for its second season, it averaged a disappointing 0.34 rating in the coveted 18-49 demographic, translating to about 4.47 million viewers per episode. This marked a 4% drop in the demo and a 3% decrease in viewership compared to its debut season. The series, along with CSI: Vegas, was identified as one of the lowest-rated original scripted series on CBS.
Despite its struggles in traditional ratings, the show had garnered a more significant following in the live+35-day multi-platform ratings, often pulling in over seven million viewers. This discrepancy highlights the evolving landscape of television viewership, where traditional ratings no longer tell the whole story.
The Final Episodes
As of now, six out of the ten episodes in the second season have aired, with the series finale set to air on May 16. Given the unexpected cancellation, fans are left wondering how the show will wrap up, especially since it’s been hinted that the finale will end on a cliffhanger. This adds a bittersweet element to the conclusion, as loyal viewers will be left with unresolved storylines.
The Creator’s Heartfelt Goodbye
In the wake of the cancellation news, series creator Scott Prendergast took to Instagram to express his gratitude. His post was a touching tribute to the CBS team and the entire cast and crew. “Thank you CBS for the phenomenal opportunity,” he wrote, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that made the show a unique experience.
Prendergast described the journey as the “best professional experience of my life,” highlighting the joy of working alongside talented actors, writers, and crew members. His heartfelt message resonated with fans, showcasing the passion and dedication that went into creating So Help Me Todd.
A Legacy of Laughter and Tears
While the cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, So Help Me Todd leaves behind a legacy filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and a relatable exploration of family dynamics. The show’s mix of comedy and drama made it a standout in the legal genre, even as it faced stiff competition in the television landscape.
Conclusion: A Fond Farewell to “So Help Me Todd”
As fans prepare to say goodbye to So Help Me Todd, it’s essential to reflect on what made the show resonate. From the compelling performances of Marcia Gay Harden and Skylar Astin to the relatable struggles of family life and personal growth, the series provided viewers with moments that made them laugh, cry, and think.
Although the show may no longer be part of CBS’s lineup, it will live on in the hearts of its fans. The story of Margaret and Todd, and their journey toward understanding and reconciliation, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of family relationships.
