NBC Cancels Five Series: A Shift in Programming Strategy
In recent seasons, NBC has announced the cancellation of five series, comprising two shows at the end of the 2023-24 season and three from the previous season. This marks the largest series cancellation at NBC since the 2020-21 season, not counting series that ended with a planned conclusion.
Series Cuts and Future Programming
Among the canceled shows are All Inrational, Suits LA, Lopez vs. Lopez, and Night Court. While Night Court has garnered attention, its producer, Warner Bros., hopes to find a new platform for the series.
As of Friday afternoon, some first-year dramas like Gross Point Garden Society and The Hunting Party remained under consideration as part of the network’s future lineup. NBC is expected to reveal its programming schedule for the 2025-26 season on Monday ahead of its sales presentation.
Entertainment Hours and NBA Investments
NBC has historically been cautious about major cancellations, but the recent cuts were anticipated. The extensive financial commitment to new NBA broadcasts—part of a $2.5 billion annual rights deal—will significantly influence the network’s programming. It is likely that at least one weeknight will be devoted to NBA game broadcasts.
This year, NBC plans to schedule six hours of scripted programming, featuring updated installments of three Chicago dramas, two Law & Order series, and a new comedy titled Happy’s Place. Additionally, St. Dennis Medical is on the slate, suggesting a robust, yet focused approach to scripted content.
Seasonal Scheduling Changes
In comparison to previous seasons, NBC’s scheduled entertainment hours have decreased. While the network managed 13 hours of primetime entertainment to start the current season, it shifted focus toward sports coverage. By spring, this number increased to approximately 15 hours per week, especially with added programming on Sunday nights.
Viewer Engagement and Cancellation Rationale
The decision to cancel these shows aligns with NBC’s strategy to focus on live sports, predicted to attract a larger audience. In 2024-25, NBA games achieved significant viewership, averaging 1.53 million viewers across platforms like ABC, ESPN, and TNT. This data presents a compelling argument for NBC’s prioritization of live sports over scripted shows, as the shift aims to capitalize on the lucrative sports audience.
According to Nielsen ratings, the recently canceled NBC shows averaged fewer than 2.2 million same-day viewers this season. Although some of these programs had potential for growth through streaming, the appeal of live NBA games could outweigh the viewership of the canceled series.
Conclusion: The Future of NBC Programming
While the cancellation of these shows may be difficult for the cast and crew, NBC’s strategic pivot towards more sports programming is informed by high financial stakes and audience engagement metrics. The network’s substantial investment in the NBA indicates a shift in priorities that could reshape its future content offerings.