HBO Cancels “Enlightened,” Continues Terrible Trend of Canceling Good Shows

by Sarah Fonder

Networks have this really unfortunate habit of making it difficult to love television. So many of the best shows have a tendency to hang out on the chopping block for several seasons, and while some survive, others are taken off the air far too soon. 2013 has seen the cancellation of some really great comedies including Ben & Kate, Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, and now HBO’s Enlightened. All three of these shows attracted cult followings, yet acclaim still isn’t enough to keep good TV from getting the axe.

Thankfully, the internet has made a lot easier for critical darlings to get a second chance. In a time of multimillion dollar Kickstarters, Netflix revivals, and premium cable comebacks, a dedicated fan base can get you far. Shows like Cougar Town and Southland were picked up by other channels after network TV cancellations, so it’s hard to tell when you’ve seen the last of your favorites. Nevertheless, as a TV devotee, I can say that it never really gets any easier to see good shows go. We’re suggesting everyone binge watch this on HBO Go just in case.

Image via The Nation

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