The cancellation of So Help Me Todd has left fans reeling, especially after its cliffhanger finale that hinted at thrilling developments ahead. While CBS has opted not to renew the show for a third season, creator Scott Prendergast recently shared tantalizing details about what we might have seen. Let’s dive into the spoilers and explore the ambitious plans he had for the series!
The Cliffhanger and the Mysterious Merritt Folding
A Look Back at the Finale
In the last episode, viewers were introduced to Merritt Folding, a character poised to shake things up in Season 3. His enigmatic presence set the stage for a new layer of conflict, and fans were left on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the fallout from his actions. Unfortunately, that cliffhanger is now just a frustrating reminder of what could have been.
Scott Prendergast’s Vision for Folding
According to Prendergast, Merritt Folding was meant to be a significant villain, pulling strings and complicating the lives of our favorite characters. He even had Marcia Gay Harden in mind for a more central role, showcasing how he intended to elevate the stakes. Prendergast explained to TV Line, “Every season of the show was meant to end with a man arriving to complicate things.” With Folding set to take center stage, the dynamics within the Wright family and their allies were bound to shift dramatically.
Todd and Judy: A Love Story Interrupted
Exploring Their Relationship
One of the most compelling aspects of So Help Me Todd was the blossoming chemistry between Todd and Judy. Prendergast had grand plans for their relationship, revealing that Season 3 would have picked up just a week after the finale. The couple’s dynamic was set to deepen as they navigated the fallout from Folding’s actions.
Prendergast noted that Todd and Judy were inspired by classic characters, with Judy Maxon serving as an homage to Barbra Streisand’s character in What’s Up Doc? This connection to iconic film history added an intriguing layer to their story. The complications arising from Todd’s past—like his interactions with Judy’s estranged father—were set to create tension and conflict, but ultimately, Prendergast envisioned a happy ending for the couple.
A Plan for Their Future
Prendergast shared that Todd and Judy were destined for “three more seasons” of happiness before a dramatic twist: Judy would eventually move to Thailand, embracing her free-spirited nature, while Todd would find himself marrying someone else. It’s a bittersweet fate that would have left fans both satisfied and yearning for more.
Allison’s Transformative Journey
The Unfolding of Allison’s Storyline
While Todd and Judy’s romance was one focus, Prendergast also had ambitious plans for Allison, Todd’s sister. He described her upcoming transformation as “unfairly cut short” by the cancellation. Prendergast envisioned a journey that would take her from the “Perfect Princess Doctor Daughter” to a more complex character who would hit rock bottom in Season 2.
A New Path
Allison was set to explore her interests in forensics, leading her to take P.I. classes. This choice would create friction with Todd, as sibling rivalry would escalate amid their investigations. Ultimately, she was on a path to becoming a forensic pathologist, with a spinoff series titled Allison, ME in the works. This ambitious plan hinted at a future where Allison could shine in her own right, capturing viewers’ hearts in a brand-new context.
The Complex Dynamics of Susan and Margaret
Navigating Professional Challenges
Scott Prendergast also hinted at exciting developments for Susan Scott, who, despite declining a promotion, was destined for success alongside Gus. Their partnership would intersect with Margaret’s legal battles, leading to unexpected alliances and personal challenges. This intertwining of professional and personal lives would have made for some juicy drama, as fans watched relationships develop and complicate.
A Possible Marriage?
The show aimed to blend humor and emotional depth, particularly in the relationships among the characters. With Margaret and Gus navigating their own complex relationship, viewers might have witnessed a potential marriage on the horizon. This development would have added another layer to the already intricate family dynamics, offering rich storytelling potential.
Reflecting on What Could Have Been
The Heart of the Wright Family
In reflecting on the series, Prendergast expressed pride in various pivotal moments and character developments. He mentioned a particularly memorable scene with the three siblings discussing who their mom’s favorite was. This moment encapsulated the family dynamic that So Help Me Todd thrived on—humor intertwined with emotional depth.
Prendergast shared, “I’m proud of the entire show.” It’s clear that he had a strong vision for the Wright family, filled with growth, challenges, and, most importantly, love. Despite the cancellation, he took a moment to thank fans for their loyalty and support, emphasizing the show’s core themes of family and personal growth.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Goodbye
While the cancellation of So Help Me Todd is undeniably disappointing, Scott Prendergast’s insights into what could have been provide a glimpse into a rich, evolving narrative that fans would have cherished. The characters were poised for dramatic growth, engaging romances, and thrilling conflicts that would keep viewers glued to their screens.
Though we won’t get to see Todd, Judy, and the rest of the Wright family navigate these new challenges, the show has left a lasting impression on its audience. Its unique blend of humor, drama, and heart made it a standout in the CBS lineup.
FAQ
Q: Will there be any follow-up projects related to So Help Me Todd?
A: As of now, there are no confirmed follow-up projects. However, Scott Prendergast has hinted at potential spinoffs, especially for characters like Allison, who was set to become a forensic pathologist in her own series.
