ABC almost has its television programming ready for the 2025-2026 season, but there are three of its star shows that are still up in the air. Neither confirmed nor cancelled. And that has fans and the industry speculating non-stop. We are talking about Doctor Odyssey, one of the network’s most expensive dramas, and two heavyweights of reality: The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. Three iconic series that are now in limbo, just as ABC tries to redefine its role in a television landscape that no longer revolves around live broadcasts.
Why is ABC delaying the decision? Is it that they want to change strategy?
What is happening with Doctor Odyssey?
Doctor Odyssey, the medical drama set on a luxury cruise ship, was born as a big bet from ABC and Ryan Murphy himself, but so far it has only faltered in the ratings… Neither Joshua Jackson nor the spectacular production have managed to hook the young audience (the precious 18-49 age group), and that has set off all the alarms.
Despite the weak numbers, the powerful deal that Murphy has with Disney could save its neck and give it a second season. For now, ABC has said neither yes nor no. Everything remains in suspense.
The Bachelor and The Bachelorette: end of an era?
The franchises The Bachelor and The Bachelorette were for years the soul of ABC in the world of reality. But that golden age is long gone. Live audiences have been plummeting for years, and the network is clearly doubting whether it is worth continuing to bet on them in the main schedule.
Meanwhile, spin-offs like Bachelor in Paradise and The Golden Bachelor already have the green light for new seasons. But the original versions remain unconfirmed, fuelling rumours that ABC might be thinking of giving them a break…
Does streaming have something to do with this?
Although on traditional TV their numbers are weak, these franchises still have a lot of pull on streaming platforms, social networks, and spin-off products. And that makes the decision not as simple as it seems. ABC is measuring every detail before making a move and taking a final decision.
Renew or die?
That is ABC’s own dilemma. What seems clear is that this prolonged silence reflects something bigger behind it, a decision between whether to move forward or die standing.
And now what?
Well, if you were especially a fan of these series, we recommend that you take a seat and wait to see what ABC finally decides. But, meanwhile, you can start watching some episodes of other series. We leave you here below our favourites that you can watch to make the wait shorter. And if you don’t have the ABC platform, many of them are also on Disney+ and Hulu.
- If you are looking for comedy, it’s clear that Abbott Elementary is made for you. Ideal if you are a teacher or looking for something fresh and very, very human.
- The Rookie is another of our favourites, because Nathan Fillion is. Action, humour, and personal dramas, you can see that after filming Castle, Fillion was left wanting to continue being a cop!
- But if what you like is drama, we definitely recommend one of the most classic classics of all time, Grey’s Anatomy. Start it when you have time because it has no less than 21 seasons! But the years don’t pass for the dramas of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
- But if you want something newer, fresher, High Potential might be made for you.
Which one do you feel like watching? We are clear that we are going to start Season 1 of Grey’s Anatomy all over again!