The Following's Short Run: Why Fox Canceled Kevin Bacon's Crime Drama

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jul 28, 2025

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The Following's Short Run: Why Fox Pulled the Plug on Kevin Bacon's Gripping Crime Drama

Kevin Bacon's The Following, a psychological thriller that captivated audiences with its chilling premise and captivating performances, surprisingly ended after only three seasons. While the show garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its suspenseful plots and Bacon's compelling portrayal of FBI Agent Ryan Hardy, its premature cancellation remains a topic of much discussion. But what exactly led to Fox's decision to end this gripping crime drama? Let's delve into the factors contributing to The Following's short run.

Declining Ratings: A Major Factor

One of the primary reasons for The Following's cancellation was the steady decline in its ratings throughout its run. While the premiere season enjoyed impressive viewership figures, fueled by the buzz surrounding Kevin Bacon's leading role and the show's unique premise, subsequent seasons experienced a noticeable drop. This downward trend proved unsustainable for Fox, ultimately leading to the network's decision to cut its losses. The increasingly competitive television landscape, with streaming services offering a vast array of content, also contributed to the erosion of The Following's viewership.

Creative Challenges and Shifting Narrative

Beyond the ratings, creative challenges also played a significant role. Maintaining the suspense and unpredictability that defined the first season proved increasingly difficult. While subsequent seasons introduced new villains and intriguing storylines, some critics argued that the show's central premise began to feel stretched and repetitive. Balancing the complex character arcs and maintaining a consistent level of tension became a challenge, potentially affecting viewer engagement and leading to a decline in critical reception. The shift in narrative focus, moving away from the initial compelling cat-and-mouse game between Hardy and Joe Carroll, might have alienated some of the original fanbase.

The Cost Factor: Production Expenses

Producing a high-octane thriller like The Following demands significant resources. The show's complex plots, elaborate sets, and extensive special effects all contribute to a high production budget. With declining ratings, the show's cost-effectiveness became a major concern for Fox. Balancing the production budget with the diminishing returns in viewership likely played a key role in the network's decision to end the series.

The Changing Television Landscape: Streaming's Impact

The rise of streaming services significantly altered the television landscape. Viewers increasingly shifted towards on-demand content, making it more challenging for network television to maintain consistent viewership for even popular shows. The Following, despite its dedicated fan base, couldn't fully withstand this paradigm shift. The competition for viewers' attention became fierce, and unfortunately, The Following fell victim to this changing environment.

The Legacy of The Following

Despite its relatively short run, The Following left its mark. The show's unique blend of suspense, psychological thriller elements, and Kevin Bacon's strong performance resonated with many viewers. It remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted crime dramas, even if its lifespan was cut short. The show's legacy continues through discussions amongst fans and its availability on streaming platforms, allowing new audiences to discover the gripping tale of Ryan Hardy and his relentless pursuit of justice.

What are your thoughts on The Following's cancellation? Share your opinions in the comments below!