Though Harry’s Law was the most-watched scripted TV show on NBC this season, the network cancelled it. As I’ve suggested in the past, advertisers favor shows that attract those in the 18-49 demographic. Though Harry’s Law had a lot of viewers, the legal series had some of the lowest demographic numbers on the network.
When asked why Kathy Bates and company had been let go, NBC chairman Bob Greenblatt said, “It was a difficult decision. Everyone here respects Harry’s Law a lot but we were finding it hard to grow the audience for it. Its audience skewed very old. It’s hard to monetize that.”
Bates broke the news of the show’s cancellation over the weekend. She wrote to fans, “Sad news today. Harry’s Law will not be renewed for a 3rd season. We are all terribly sad. Many thanks for all your support.”
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The actress later noted, “Waiting for this verdict was tough. We wrapped a month ago so it was a very long wait!”
Bates reconciled, “Tough day getting used to the idea of no more Harry. Think I’ll keep her with me 4ever.”
When asked if there was a possibility that Harry’s Law might move to cable, Bates responded, “No hope.” But, responding to an inquiry last night on the subject, Bates wrote, “Not sure, but don’t think so.”
Justine Lupe, who played Phoebe Blake, wrote, “Sad day. Little bit of heartbreak. What a gift to had had this time.”
Actress Karen Olivo, who joined the cast in season two as Cassie Reynolds, responded with a message to her castmates, “It was an honor, my friends!”
Nathan Corddry, who’d been playing Adam Branch since the show began, noted, “I’d thank everyone individually, but the list is too long.Never was happier professionally. Thank you for a wondrful 2 years. #tough2swallow”
What do you think? Are you going to miss Harry’s Law as much as the cast will? If the show did move to another channel, would you follow it?
Best and most entertaining “smart series” on television. What a waste that the network panders to the “Reality Show” mentality. The 18 to 49 year old demographic should be insulted by this decision. How can one of the most viewed programs be cancelled by a major network?
We would certainly follow it to cable. Most everything that we watch on network TV is on FOX anyway. Too bad for NBC.
Season One: Outstanding,quirky, well written, great cast. Season Two: Probably due to trying to expand the demographics, way too many social statements. Tonights show completely exaggerated issues regarding homosexuality and how the hetrosexuals (and just plain people) responses are relatively perceived. I give blood regularly; in fact last week. You are not eligible to donate blood if you cannot refute a number of health safety issues. Who (or what) you’ve had sex with is but one of the many reasons that can preclude you from donating. And let’s face it, homosexuality is a sin in the Christian religon. It’s in… Read more »
Not after the last show.
Let another network pick it up! This is one of the best shows on television in a long time!!
I can’t believe they are taking one of the very best shows off the air. It seems that every time they put on a show worth watching it ends up getting cancelled!!! This show has absolutely one of the best casts out there! They really play well off of each other and Cathy Bates is awesome in the roll as “Harry”, she deserves an Emmy! Why do you only cater to the younger crowd, after all us “Baby Boomers” really support your network in everything we buy. So……keep “Harry’s Law” going strong….if not on your network, I’d watch it on… Read more »
Yes, of course, I would follow Harry’s Law to a cable network. The cable network’s are where the future is. NBC is a loser network. Maybe CBS will pick up Harry’s Law. They seem to have their act together. I love, love, love Harry’s Law. Boo NBC.
What a great show!! Can’t believe you would cancel it! Cast is superb and story lines are so intelligent. NBC becomes the bottom of my list if this show goes!!!
I really enjoyed Harry’s Law. Although a bit unconventional, it brought to light some interesting issues. Would love to see it on cable. Isn’t the USA Network owned by NBC?
Harry’s Law is the smartest show/script on TV. It’s always been said that TV is for the dummies. This proves it. So sad that the industry has to dumb it down to sell ad time.
Perhaps we in this “weak demographic” should quick watching NBC altogether. Perhaps then our 49+ age group will count for something.
Harry’s law was one of the few shows I wsatched on NBC and enjoyed. I would definitely watch it on cable. Kathy Bates and the shows cast were great and I for one am tired of being told oour age group does count…..perhaps it is time to show the tv exec’s we do count.
I could not agree more. Harry’s Law is one of two I watch on NBC. It is a funny and intelligent show. I cannot say the same about the NBC execs. They just don’t get it–they need viewers of all ages to keep relevant. The older demographic is stable and loyal. I would happily watch Harry’s Law on cable. Since NBC does not need viewers over 49 ( one of the largest demographic groups) I would suggest older viewers boycot NBC. Let them make it with the under 50 crowd.
We very much enjoyed this show. What is the deal with the 18 – 49 demographic? Don’t older people have money to spend, or are we less influenced by advertising??!! We would surely follow Harry’s Law to another station or to cable. I hope we get that chance!
Very sad to see series go. It was so good. Hope Cable will pick it up.
So bummed at the loss of Harry’s Law!! I think they’re making a huge mistake. Hoping against all hope that they’ll move it to cable!!
Maybe I don’t understand all the ins and outs of why a show stays on for 10 or more years and others only for 2. You want to play to the 18 – 49 age group, but not all people fall into that category and still watch TV. I think Harry’s Law was one of, if not, the best shows on TV. I am not in your age range. Am I going to constantly see all my favorite shows come and go because I am older that 49? Don’t you want to please all of us in some way? It’s… Read more »
My husband and I have been huge fans of Harry’s Law since season 1. We have not missed 1 episode and totally love Kathy Bates. Such talent and a great cast! Certainly would follow the show to any network! Please someone pick up the show!!!!