ABC’s schedule has had something of a shakeup recently, and theconfusing cancellation of medical dramaDoctor Odysseyhas left room in the lineup for a new show to thrive. Meanwhile, the9-1-1franchise continues to go from strength to strength, and the cancellation of9-1-1: Lone Starled into the development of a new spinoff,9-1-1: Nashville.
Joshua Jackson’s cruise ship-based medical dramaDoctor Odysseymade waves upon release for its quirky and light-hearted narrativeand strong casting choices; it even featured9-1-1’s Athena Grant (Angela Bassett) for a crossover event. However, the show was not renewed beyond season 1, and the options for the cast were not picked up for a second season.
Despite ABC’s claims that they have not officially canceled the show, it appears thatDoctor Odysseyseason 2likely will not happen. Instead,9-1-1: Nashville, another Ryan Murphy show, will replace it,and I think it has a better chance of enjoying long-term success.
Ryan Murphy’s 9-1-1: Nashville Takes Over Doctor Odyssey’s ABC Timeslot
The 9-1-1 Spinoff Will Premiere In October
9-1-1season 8 wrapped in May, the same time9-1-1: Lone Starconcluded with season 5, and nowNashvillelooks set to take the franchise in a fresh and exciting direction.The upcoming show has taken overDoctor Odyssey’s primetime slot on Thursdays at 9/8c, and there is reason to be optimistic about its chances of success.
Having a popular airing time is a great way of attracting viewership, andthe fact that both shows are developed by Murphy means there’s a chance the slot will retain viewers fromDoctor Odyssey.The show’s exciting premiere time is a great way of helping it to hit the ground running in its early weeks, and lean on its sister show.
The Show Can Thrive Alongside 9-1-1
Custom image by Milica Djordjevic
9-1-1: Nashvillealso has a good chance at becoming a hit when it will air after9-1-1(which takes the 8/7c slot), a factor that will be invaluable to the new series. Airing alongside its flagship provides a greater opportunity for a smooth transition, as well as being able to thrive as part of a9-1-1double feature, with both shows airing one after another.
With a double bill of9-1-1and9-1-1: Nashville, there are also more places where the stories can be taken. Additionally, it means a strong viewing format for viewers who are exploring the9-1-1shows for the first time, as they can experience the stories of many characters in one night.
9-1-1: Nashvillelooks to be a strong spinoff, and one that could have the legs for long-term success, with its ABC slot playing a big role in this.
