Happy Endings never got its own happy ending. The series was cancelled in 2013 after only three seasons. Now, on the eve of its five-year anniversary, Complex has published an oral history of the cult-favorite ABC sitcom.
Created by David Caspe, Happy Endings starred Adam Pally, Damon Wayans Jr., Zachary Knighton, Elisha Cuthbert, Casey Wilson, and Eliza Coupe as a tight-knit group of friends.
Speaking to Complex, the cast members spoke about the series’ early cancellation, with Coupe saying the show ended because ABC didn’t promote it enough:
Nobody promoted us, we never had any publicity. Even the posters and billboards around town were stock photos of not even us—just some random wedding cake. It was like, cool, they don’t give a fuck about us. They put us out to pasture. We were the little engine that could, because people fucking loved it and we still rose above. It sucks that we got canceled. I think the show still could be on the air today and be a mega-hit if ABC got behind it. But they didn’t, and that’s their fault. It’s really shitty.”
Wayans added that the show felt ahead of its time:
I feel like Happy Endings was three years ahead of its time, which is a weird, specific number. But if ABC would have just held on, they would have seen some fruits of their labor. Of our labor, really. But I don’t know. I think it’s a funny show. It’s original. I don’t really know any shows like it on TV. It’s so specific, and I think more people are seeing it now—so many more people are talking about it. I appreciate the love. The fact that we’re even having this interview right now is really cool.”
What do you think? Did you watch Happy Endings? Do you think the show should’ve been renewed? Do you think there should be a reboot?
I love the show. I still to this day watch all 3 seasons. There is not another show like it. Even my wife loves it and she hates sitcoms. ABC show most definitely reboot the show!!
I actually just discovered the show on Hulu. I had never heard of it before. I absolutely think they should reboot the show! I think it would be an absolute hit this time around.
I agree with the cast! The show was ahead of it’s time. I remember thinking, when the show was on the air, how original and fresh and advanced it was. I wish ABC got behind it more; it would’ve made for better tv comedy.
RENEW IT! This show has become popular ever since it came on Hulu. This show could be the most popular sitcom on television if you renewed it. I shared my 2 seasons with about 8 people in my life. Imagine what everyone else is doing! Your move.
one of my favorite shows of all time.
The cast, characters, jokes, one liners and pace were all a 10!