Despite its quirky premise, star power, and gorgeous scenery,Doctor Odysseyhas been axed by ABC after one season. The show was on the bubble for a while, and it was unclear whether aDoctor Odysseyseason 2renewal would happen, but it has now been confirmed that the show will not be returning.
The initial promise suggested the show could run long-term, and plenty of new storylines could have been introduced in season 2. However, fans will now be left wondering what might have been with the show’s untimely cancellation.
Finding an audience on network television can be a challenge for new shows, andDoctor Odysseyis no different. Ultimately, several reasons could have led to the show’s cancellation, and in some ways, it struggled to find its identity.
Doctor Odyssey Was Canceled By ABC After Season 1
The Show Didn’t Do Enough To Return For Another Season
Following weeks of speculation,Varietyconfirmed on June 27 thatDoctor Odysseyhad been canceled by ABC after one season. The cast’s contracts have now expired, with no move to renew them, ensuring the show will not be back on the network this fall.
There are many reasons why the show could have been axed at ABC, and it’s most likely a decision brought on by a combination of factors, rather than a stand-out one. Nonetheless, it’s important to explore the different issues that likely contributed to the show’s cancellation.
RenewingDoctor Odysseyfor a second season would likely mean a large production budget, especially ifDoctor Odyssey’s cast and characterswere all poised to return for season 2.
Despite its early promise,Doctor Odysseywas a show that straddled medical drama and soap opera, but ultimately, it didn’t find its niche. The show tried to do a lot in season 1, and this could be what contributed to it feeling confused and disorganized, which hurts the viewing experience.
Despite the show’s ratings initially starting fairly strong, ratings dipped asDoctor Odysseyseason 1 went on, and this could have been one of the core reasons behind ABC’s decision not to renew the series.
Something else that could have worked against the show in terms of securing a renewal is thatDoctor Odysseyseason 1 ran 18 episodes. This may have caused the season to feel too long, and a shorter episode count could have helped improve viewer engagement.
Can Doctor Odyssey Season 2 Still Happen?
It’s Unlikely, But Things Should Not Be Ruled Out
There is the chance thatDoctor Odysseymay receive a stay of execution and that another platform could pick it up for a renewal. It is not unheard of for canceled shows to be brought back by another network as it’s been done before.
The growth and power of streaming platforms these days mean there is a constant need for content, and shows likeDoctor Odysseycould perform well on streaming. The show was available to stream on Hulu during its run, and there’s a chance it could be picked up by the platform.
Medical dramas often perform well on streaming, butDoctor Odyssey’shigh budget, which was driven by its star-studded cast, special effects, and ambitious action sequences, may prevent platforms from considering a revival.
What Could Have Happened In Doctor Odyssey Season 2 (Could It Have Been Better Than Season 1?)
The Show Largely Wrapped Up Its Season 1 Story, But Could Have Been More Epic
Doctor Odysseyseason 1 did a pretty good job of wrapping up the story arcs of the season in a relatively satisfactory manner. Having said that, there are some ways that season 2 could have evolved the show while also making things more epic in terms of plot and narrative.
Intriguingly, there may also have been more hints at a shared universe with creator Ryan Murphy’s other show9-1-1.
Season 2 could have seen the fallout from corporate’s decision to fire Massey, it could also have delved deeper into the idea that Max is in a coma and the show is in purgatory. Intriguingly, there may also have been more hints at a shared universe with creator Ryan Murphy’s other show,9-1-1.
The show could certainly have improved in season 2, and there was scope to explore interesting plot points, making for a more epic and immersive follow-up. Ultimately,Doctor Odysseyseason 2 could have been an improvement on season 1 if it received a renewal.
Doctor Odyssey
Cast
Doctor Odyssey is set aboard a luxury cruise ship where Max, the new on-board doctor, and a small, resourceful medical team confront unique medical crises and interpersonal dynamics while isolated miles from shore.
