The Wrap listed the Top 20 highest rated network shows cancelled by their respective networks. Simon Cowell’s singing competition near the top of the list, in a 4 way tie with Revolution, Intelligence and We Are Men.
There are shows averaging similar or lower ratings than X Factor that got renewed (FOX comedies, The Mindy Project and Brooklyn 999, for instance) illustrating that renewal decisions are based on a variety of factors. For instance, The Wrap notes that while the CBS drama, The Mentalist, was only renewed with a 2.0 rating, it has been an “enduring hit” for CBS.
FOX had high expectations for the X Factor, which the show did not meet. Also, I expect that it became clear the network couldn’t sustain two singing shows, especially with two cycles of the popular NBC show, The Voice, airing twice a year. In any case, Simon was signalling that he was ready to head back to the UK version of the show. There was no X Factor in the US without Simon Cowell.
I was a little surprised that CBS cancelled the Robin Williams vehicle, Crazy Ones. Starring a beloved actor, it too was probably a victim of high expectations.
Top 50 Broadcast TV Shows of 2013-2014 Season
Via The Wrap
1. Crazy Ones – CBS – 2.7
1. Almost Human – FOX – 2.7
3. Super Fun Night – ABC – 2.3
4. X-Factor – FOX – 2.2
4. Revolution – NBC – 2.2
4. Intelligence – CBS – 2.2
4. We Are Men – CBS – 2.1
8. Friends with Better Lives – CBS – 2.1
9. Hostages – CBS – 2.0
9. Back in the Game – ABC – 2.0
11. Believe – NBC – 1.9
11. Growing Up Fisher – NBC – 1.9
13. Crisis – NBC – 1.8
13. Dracula – NBC – 1.8
13. Dads – FOX – 1.8
16. Michael J. Fox Show – NBC – 1.7
16. Bad Teacher – CBS – 1.7
16. Mixology – ABC – 1.7
16. Suburgatory – ABC – 1.7
20. Community – NBC – 1.5
