I came across this article on Twitter last week. Bryan S. Arnold asks whether FOX has just given up in the ratings, because it has continued Fringe and Lie to Me, despite low ratings. Well, Bryan, this is not an original argument or question. Over a year ago, TV writers were asking the same question. It’s really a question no television show is safe from, though a more well-established show like House can probably withstand a temporary dip in the ratings without being in any real danger of cancellation.
Arnold writes, “Any mention of either Fringe or Lie To Me ratings or prospects brings out legions of their fans filling their bingo cards with excuses why each show shouldn’t be canceled.”
I laughed at that, even though, here I am, bingo card in hand. Truthfully, I’m not invested in Lie to Me, even though I’m enjoying it this season. But my passion for Fringe borders on obsessive. I worry about Olivia. I’m angry that I think Peter knows Bolivia is the alternate, but slept with her anyway. I want Olivia to come home, I want her to be with Peter. I want our universe to survive — let’s just bring all of the doppelgangers over here. Wow, can you imagine some of the fun the show could have with immigration issues from the alternate universe? How can you turn away your own doppelganger if you’re anti-immigration? Would people embrace or reject their alternate selves?
Fringe is one of the most richly imagined shows on television today. In fact, of the shows I’ve watched in the past five years, only Lost, season one of Heroes, and Battlestar Galactica can touch it in terms of ingenuity and creativity. Of course, neither quality could save Journeyman or Daybreak or New Amsterdam. I’m hoping that three seasons, a passionate fan base, and great writing/acting can give Fringe a long life to explore all of the questions it has raised. And more.
Clacked by Jen Creer
on Nov 12, 2010 @ 10:00 EST5EDT
Of course they are going to cancel Fringe. It is a great show with great stories and great acting. Why would they keep it on the air when they can put on a “reality” show or something that requires an IQ of 12 to watch. Pity… why do the networks do that??
I don’t have the time to watch it right now. Watched until the end of last season. I am watching Lie to me though but all things comedy come before these two as well as SGU.
I would love to see “Fringe” go on for another 6-7 seasons if it can keep this level of quality going. If Fox decides to cancel it, I just hope they’re given enough time to wrap up a few things with the “over there” storyline and the relationships between not only Walter and Peter, but also Peter and Olivia.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Every show I love dies. My favorite shows right now are SGU, Fringe, Lie to Me and Doctor Who. I guess “Who” is safe since it’s not made in North America.
I wonder if television ratings on the other side are reversed and all my favorites get the 10-12 million viewers numbers? If so, I’m ready to make the jump!