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TV Shows Still on the Bubble for Fall 2026: What’s Renewed, What’s at Risk, and What Fans Can Do


Three people in a diagonal split image. The left person appears thoughtful, the center looks determined, and the right seems surprised. Different backgrounds.


The 2025 fall tv season is quickly coming to a close and there are many shows that are still left in the wind as to whether or not they will be renewed. With networks focusing on budgets and streaming first options, renewal decisions are taking a little longer than we are used to as well as being harder to predict. For many beloved series, the question remains: will they return in Fall 2026 or fade into cancellation?


🔍 Why Are So Many Shows “On the Bubble” in 2025?


The term on the bubble refers to shows that are neither renewed nor officially canceled. These series live in a gray area; basically they are still under consideration by networks based on performance, budget, and market trends.


Several factors are contributing to the high number of bubble shows in 2025:

  • Delayed production cycles due to the 2023 strikes believe it or not

  • Shifting viewer habits toward streaming and on-demand

  • Cost-cutting measures at major networks and streamers

  • Ratings uncertainty in the hybrid linear + digital age


Networks are far more cautious, even with well-performing or critically praised series.


📺 Major Network Shows Still Awaiting Renewal for Fall 2026


Here’s a look at some of the most talked-about shows still awaiting word on their future, categorized by network.


NBC

  • The Irrational Despite strong critical reception and a solid freshman season, The Irrational has yet to be renewed for a third season. NBC may be watching how Season 2 wraps up before committing.

  • The Hunting Party A mid-season procedural with a loyal core audience, The Hunting Party averaged around 3 million live viewers. Still, its renewal hinges on delayed streaming numbers and international sales.

  • Lopez vs. Lopez This comedy has built a passionate fanbase but remains a mid-tier performer. NBC is reportedly waiting for May sweeps performance before deciding.


CBS

  • The Equalizer One of the most talked-about dramas this season, The Equalizer benefited from the star power of Queen Latifah. CBS hasn’t tipped its hand yet, but our fingers are crossed.


FOX

  • Rescue Hi-Surf FOX’s answer to 911 has not been renewed or cancelled yet and it is not looking good.

  • Alert: Missing Persons Unit and The Cleaning Lady Both procedurals have internal support and a stable ratings base. However, with FOX investing more in live events and sports, scripted shows are under heavier scrutiny.


Full on the bubble list:


Rescue HI-Surf (Fox) 

Animal Control (Fox) 

Alert: MPU (Fox) 

Accused (Fox) 

Going Dutch (Fox) 

The Cleaning Lady (Fox) 

The Great North (Fox) 

Grimsburg (Fox)

Law & Order: SVU (NBC)  

The Irrational (NBC) 

Law & Order (NBC)

Found (NBC) 

Suits LA (NBC) 

Brilliant Minds (NBC) 

The Hunting Party (NBC) 

Night Court (NBC) 

Grosse Pointe Garden Society (NBC) 

 Lopez vs. Lopez (NBC) 

Doctor Odyssey (ABC)

The Equalizer (CBS) 

Wild Cards (The CW) 

Good Cop/Bad Cop (The CW) 

All American (The CW) 



📊 The Metrics That Matter: What Determines Renewal


Networks now look beyond just live ratings to decide a show’s fate. Here are key performance indicators (KPIs) driving decisions:

  • Live + 7 viewership: How many people watch within a week of airing?

  • Streaming performance: Are episodes trending on platforms like Peacock, Hulu, or Paramount+?

  • Demographic ratings: Is the show pulling in the coveted 18-49 age group?

  • Social engagement: Are fans talking about the show on social media?

  • International sales: Can the show generate revenue through global licensing?


Understanding these metrics gives fans insight into what matters and how they can make a difference.


🙌 What Fans Can Do to Help Save Their Favorite Shows


If your favorite show is on the bubble, don’t sit back, you can act. Here are actionable steps fans can take to push for renewal:

  1. Stream full episodes on official platforms to boost viewership data.

  2. Use hashtags on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok to show demand.

  3. Sign and share petitions—networks pay attention to fan mobilization.

  4. Buy official merchandise or support digital downloads.

  5. Tag networks and actors in your posts to amplify your voice.


Fan-led campaigns have helped revive shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Manifest, and Lucifer. It can work.



📝 Stay Tuned and Stay Vocal

With so many shows still waiting for renewal decisions, Fall 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory. The fate of many series lies not just in boardrooms but in the hands of fans.

Whether you're rooting for a sitcom like Lopez vs. Lopez, a drama like Watson, or an animated gem like The Great North, your support matters. Stream it, talk about it, and spread the word because you might just tip the scales in favor of renewal.


Want to keep track of all renewals and cancellations? Bookmark this article and check back for updates. And let us know in the comments what show are YOU hoping gets renewed for Fall 2026?


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