American Gothic: Cancel or Renew for Season Two?

This summer, CBS introduced two new scripted series. Neither have performed very well in the ratings. BrainDead looks likely to be cancelled. Could there be a second season of American Gothic?

The first season of American Gothic revolves around a well-to-do Boston family. The Hawthornes are reeling in the wake of the chilling discovery that someone in their midst may be a serial killer. The cast includes Virginia Madsen, Juliet Rylance, Justin Chatwin, Stephanie Leonidas, Gabriel Bateman, Megan Ketch, and Elliot Knight.

The series debuted in late June to a 0.7 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 3.43 million viewers. Those weren’t impressive numbers to be sure and over the course of the season, the numbers have fallen as low as a 0.4 rating with 2.37 million.

While the finale is expected to wrap up the first season’s mysteries, showrunner Corinne Brinkerhoff has said that she already has plans for season two and beyond. Future seasons (if they happen) will revolve around other family mysteries and feature different characters.

Given the low ratings, it doesn’t seem likely that the writers will get a chance to tell those stories. Still, these days, you never know.

But, what do you think? Do you like the American Gothic TV show? Should it be cancelled or renewed for a second season with a different story?

10/18 update: CBS has cancelled the American Gothic TV show. Details here.