Science Fiction Shows That Died Too Soon

Sometimes, when science fiction and television meet, magic happens. The Twilight Zone, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica (excluding that horrendous finale) – all great examples of science fiction being proudly represented on television. When a sci-fi show is successful, it practically redefines success. And yet they often fail. I’m not informed enough to say they fail more often than other genres, but I can say that when they do fail, it’s felt harder, due to the passion and loyalty displayed by science fiction fans. Here’s a small tribute to those sci-fi shows that died off before they could truly shine.

Firefly

By law, I’m required to include this on any list involving shows canceled too soon, science fiction or not. I mean, you can’t read Science Fiction Shows That Died Too Soon without thinking of Firefly. So I’m getting it out of the way right off the bat. Joss Whedon’s Firefly was a fantastic blend of the science fiction and western genres with an incredibly likable cast. It was smart, funny, and was canceled after airing eleven episodes due to a disappointing performance. Not that I had to tell you any of that. It’s Firefly!

Journeyman

Journeyman, we hardly knew ye. This one shares a special place in my heart due to my love of San Francisco and the man-crush that I have on Kevin McKidd. McKidd played Dan Vasser, a reporter who “jumps” back to various points time and helps people out. There were definite Quantum Leap vibes going on, except that he didn’t inhabit another’s body, but simply helped shape their destiny. While the premise may not be that original or clever, cool twists were introduced all the time, and by the end of its short 13 episode run, Journeyman had carved out a place all its own.

Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles

Like John Connor, I too am part of the resistance. And by resistance, I mean the small group of people who actually liked Terminator: Salvation. Fortunately, the fan base for Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles was significantly larger. Unfortunately, it wasn’t large enough to save the show from getting axed after its second season. The real shame is that the first season of the show wasn’t all that good, so if it had been canceled earlier, the outcry would probably have been much smaller. It found its footing in its sophomore year, but it was too little too late.

Stargate: Universe

Not only is this a fresh wound, but it’s also the cancellation that inspired this list. I wasn’t that big of a fan of the Stargate film and both SG-1 and Atlantis looked as unappealing as shows can get, but Stargate: Universe really hit all the right buttons with me. It certainly didn’t hurt having Robert Carlyle in the cast. And while I’m thankful that the show got two full seasons, I’m less than happy that it ended on a cliffhanger and that the film which was intended to wrap it all up is no longer happening.