Question: We are halfway through the season now, and my question is which of the older broadcast shows (two seasons or more) are in danger of not coming back? Examples: The Odd Couple, Dr. Ken, Hawaii 5-0, The Big Bang Theory, etc., whether it’s because of ratings or contract talks with the actors. — Dave
Matt Roush: As the old 8-ball toy I grew up with used to tell me, “Outlook cloudy.” It’s harder and harder to know when a show’s time is up, and of the shows you list, only The Big Bang Theory has generated significant headlines because of the show’s prominence and how much money its stars command. At the moment, they haven’t signed a deal beyond this season, but I have to hope that when the time comes, Big Bang will be given the opportunity to end its run with, yes, a big bang, and a big build-up. Of the shows you mentioned, only The Odd Couple would be classified as officially on the bubble. Its short season is over at the end of January, and it has always been treated pretty much as a marginal utility player, so no loss either way. Dr. Ken is in no danger, and Hawaii Five-0 has hit the seven-season mark at which point there are usually serious negotiations to continue its future indefinitely or to begin planning for an endgame. I would think the former option is most likely, at least for a few more years.
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