Kevin Bacon's The Following: Reasons Behind Fox's Cancellation After Season 3

Michael

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Post on Jul 28, 2025

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The Following's Final Curtain Call: Why Fox Cancelled Kevin Bacon's Thriller After Season 3

Kevin Bacon's chilling portrayal of FBI Agent Ryan Hardy in The Following captivated audiences for three seasons, but the show's run abruptly ended in 2015. While the series finale offered a sense of closure, many fans remain curious about the reasons behind Fox's decision to cancel this gripping thriller. Let's delve into the factors that ultimately led to the cancellation of The Following after its third season.

The Declining Ratings Rollercoaster:

One of the most significant reasons for The Following's cancellation was the consistent drop in viewership throughout its run. While the premiere season garnered impressive ratings, boosted by the intriguing premise and Bacon's star power, subsequent seasons saw a steady decline. This downward trend is a common factor in network television, where shows need to maintain a certain audience threshold to justify their production costs. The intense, often graphic, nature of the show might have also alienated some viewers, contributing to the ratings dip.

The Creative Challenges of Sustaining Suspense:

Maintaining the high level of suspense and unpredictability that characterized the first season proved increasingly challenging. The show’s central antagonist, Joe Carroll (James Purefoy), was a compelling villain, but subsequent seasons struggled to create equally captivating antagonists. While new threats emerged, they lacked the same chilling charisma and complexity that made Carroll so memorable. This creative hurdle likely contributed to audience fatigue and a decline in critical acclaim.

The Shifting Landscape of Television:

The television landscape underwent significant changes during The Following's run. The rise of streaming services and on-demand viewing presented stiff competition for network television. Audiences had more choices than ever before, making it harder for shows to maintain a large and dedicated viewership. The Following, with its intense subject matter, might have struggled to resonate with the expanding audience drawn to different genres and streaming platforms.

The Financial Considerations:

Producing a show like The Following, with its elaborate set designs, intricate plots, and stunt work, is costly. When combined with declining ratings, the financial burden likely played a significant role in Fox's decision. The network had to weigh the expense against the potential return, ultimately deciding that continuing the series wasn't financially viable.

A Legacy of Thrills Despite Cancellation:

Despite its premature cancellation, The Following left a lasting impact on the thriller genre. The show’s intense storylines, captivating performances, and unique blend of crime drama and psychological suspense secured its place in television history. While the ending may have left some viewers wanting more, the series remains a compelling example of a high-stakes thriller that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

What could have been? It's tempting to speculate on how the show might have continued, but the declining viewership and the inherent challenges of sustaining such a dark and intense premise ultimately sealed its fate.

Do you have any favorite memories of The Following? Share your thoughts in the comments below!