Fox's Decision: Exploring The Reasons Behind The Following's Cancellation

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jul 28, 2025

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Fox's Decision: Unpacking the Cancellation of "The Following"

Fans of psychological thrillers were left reeling when Fox abruptly cancelled The Following after its third season. The show, starring Kevin Bacon as former FBI profiler Ryan Hardy, captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and unsettling portrayal of serial killer Joe Carroll, played by James Purefoy. But why did a show with such a dedicated following meet its untimely end? Let's delve into the potential reasons behind Fox's controversial decision.

Falling Ratings and Shifting Network Priorities:

One of the most prominent factors contributing to The Following's cancellation was its declining viewership. While the first season enjoyed impressive ratings, subsequent seasons saw a gradual decrease in audience numbers. This drop, although not catastrophic, likely played a significant role in Fox's assessment of the show's profitability and its alignment with the network's overall programming strategy. Networks constantly evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of their shows, considering production costs against advertising revenue and overall audience engagement. The Following, while critically acclaimed by some, simply may not have been hitting the numbers Fox needed to justify its continued production.

Creative Fatigue and Narrative Challenges:

Maintaining the suspense and unpredictability of a serial killer drama for multiple seasons is a daunting task. Critics argued that the show's later seasons struggled to maintain the same level of tension and innovation that characterized the first season. The initial shock value of Joe Carroll's character and the intricate plots gradually diminished, leading to a perceived narrative fatigue among viewers. This could have contributed to the decline in ratings and influenced Fox's decision to pull the plug.

The Cost Factor: A High-Stakes Production:

Producing a show like The Following, with its complex storylines, numerous locations, and high-profile cast, is undoubtedly expensive. In the competitive landscape of network television, budget considerations are paramount. If the show's declining ratings failed to offset its production costs, Fox may have deemed it financially unsustainable to continue. This is a common issue faced by many TV shows, even those with dedicated fan bases.

The Rise of Streaming and Changing Viewer Habits:

The television landscape has undergone a dramatic shift in recent years, with the rise of streaming services like Netflix and Hulu offering viewers a wider range of content on demand. This increased competition for viewers' attention could have contributed to The Following's declining ratings, as audiences spread their viewing habits across various platforms.

Could a Revival Be on the Horizon?

While the cancellation was disappointing for many fans, the possibility of a revival remains. The success of revived shows on streaming platforms has shown that even cancelled series can find new life. Given the show's dedicated fanbase and its intriguing premise, a reboot or limited series on a streaming service could potentially reignite interest in the world of Ryan Hardy and Joe Carroll.

Conclusion:

The cancellation of The Following serves as a reminder of the complex factors that influence the fate of television shows. A combination of declining ratings, creative challenges, budget concerns, and the evolving television landscape likely contributed to Fox's decision. While the show may be gone from network television, its legacy continues through passionate fan discussions and the enduring fascination with the characters and its captivating storytelling. Perhaps someday, we'll see Ryan Hardy return to our screens.

Keywords: The Following, Fox, Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, cancelled TV show, TV show cancellation, declining ratings, network television, streaming services, psychological thriller, serial killer, TV show revival.