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Q: Why is the series "Parenthood" going off the air? In my opinion, it is one of the best shows on TV.

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Author: 
Adam Thomlison / TV Media

You aren't the only person to think so highly of "Parenthood," but quality and a devoted fanbase aren't the biggest factors in a show's longevity.

"Parenthood" has been critically acclaimed since its premiere in 2010 and has been embraced by a passionate group of fans. But despite all that, one thing it has never been is a hit.

"It's always been a bubble show; we never knew if we're coming back," show creator Jason Katims explained at the Television Critics Association Press Tour this past summer, shortly after, the show had been told it would come back one last time, for a 13-episode final season.

A "bubble show" is a show that is close to being canceled. One whose ratings are bad enough that, in the spring when the network is drawing up its new fall schedule, it considers dropping to make space for a new show.

This is a phenomenon that "Parenthood" fans know well. As Katims said, the show has been on the chopping block pretty much every year since it premiered.

However, ratings aren't the only factor that can put a show on the bubble. Katims points out that "Parenthood," with its ensemble cast of TV veterans, cost a fair bit to make.

"This year was definitely trickier than others," he said. "It's a big cast. It's an expensive show to produce."

His reference to "this year" suggests there was some truth to the rumors that the network was trying to get the cast to accept some cost-cutting measures to get this season made.

Of course, if the ratings are good, the cost doesn't matter. "Friends" and "Seinfeld" are two examples of shows whose casts received enormous salaries, but that were able to remain on the air for pretty well as long as they wanted because people kept tuning in.

"Parenthood" was not so fortunate, though. And so, with a finale that SoundOnSight.org reviewer Kate Kulzick called "a joyous celebration of the series' core principles," the show came to an end this winter.

 

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