NBC has made some big decisions early for the 2026-27 season. They’ve canceled the medical drama Brilliant Minds, which starred Zachary Quinto, and the cheerleading comedy Stumble featuring Jenn Lyon. Now, two shows are uncertain: the classic Law & Order and the newer The Hunting Party. Meanwhile, The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, a midseason show, seems more likely to return.
The cancellations don’t come as a shock. Brilliant Minds has had the lowest ratings of any NBC drama, dropping significantly over the past year. NBC even removed it from the schedule earlier this year to make space for extended Voice episodes. Fans can still look forward to the final six episodes, airing on May 27.
As for Stumble, while critics and viewers generally loved it—earning 82% and 96% on Rotten Tomatoes—it struggled to attract a larger audience, especially after a shaky start on Friday nights.
The Hunting Party, starring Melissa Roxburgh, might have a better chance. Its first season did well on Netflix, which has had a positive ripple effect on its viewership on Peacock, even if it hasn’t boosted traditional ratings.
Interestingly, Law & Order found itself in a tough spot this year. After some cast changes in its early seasons, the revival seems to be on the right track creatively. Still, it has lagged behind other NBC shows in terms of viewership.
Despite its challenges, it’s hard to visualize NBC completely cutting ties with the Law & Order franchise. If it does come to an end, perhaps a limited final season could offer a proper send-off.
This situation reflects broader trends in television where streaming numbers increasingly influence network cancellation decisions. As of 2023, nearly 80% of viewers prefer to stream shows rather than watch them live. Networks are keenly aware that a show’s success can be measured in different ways now, not just by immediate ratings.
For more insights on the shifting landscape of television viewership, you might find this Nielsen report helpful.
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