Signs a TV Series is Starting to Go Downhill: A Guide for Audiences

A TV series that once captivated viewers with its unique characters and meticulous storytelling may start to show signs of decline over time. As networks and producers seek ways to keep the ratings up, certain elements of the show may reveal its deteriorating quality. Here are some clear indications that a beloved series might be starting to go downhill.

New Characters Filling Void

A common sign of a series in decline is the introduction of yet another younger character to fill the void created by an older one who has 'grown up' and lost their cuteness. While it might seem refreshing at first, this move often indicates that the writers are running out of creative ideas and are instead filling storylines with character churn.

Excessive Fan Service

Another red flag is the frequent incorporation of fan service. Small elements are not necessarily problematic, but deliberate discarding of characters and plotlines to appease the most enthusiastic fans is a clear sign the show is desperate for ratings. When fan service reaches this level, it means the show has lost touch with its original storytelling vision and is now solely focused on pleasing a niche audience at the expense of a broader, more casual viewership.

Writer’s Strike or Pandemic

In cases where a series is affected by external factors like a writers' strike or a global pandemic, the quality of writing may suffer. Shows like The Orville found themselves in a bind during the pandemic but are now working on a fourth season, indicating a dip in the quality of content during difficult times. However, once these external factors are eliminated, it's essential for the show to bounce back to its original quality.

Reoccurring Plot Devices and Character Arcs

Another sign of a declining series is the overuse of familiar plot devices. Recognizing these devices from other shows can make the current plotlines feel derivative and lack originality. This suggests that the writers are running out of new ideas and are relying on what they think viewers expect or want to see.

Story Arcs Built for Individual Stars

When a show transitions from being an ensemble cast with multiple strong characters to centering around just a few select actors, it can be a sign that the series is about to go downhill. This often happens at the end of a contract period when important but less prominent cast members are written out to free up budget for the main stars. For example, the show The Last Ship moved from a diverse and expansive story to focusing solely on Eric Dane's character, which was a clear indication of the show's decline in quality.

Out-of-Character (OOC) Behaviors

Fan service often goes hand in hand with out-of-character (OOC) behaviors. When a character behaves in a way that is inconsistent with their established personality and background, it can be jarring and a sign that the show is compromising on quality to appease its most passionate fans. For instance, in the Arrowverse, the introduction of Iris West as a no-frills science expert or Supergirl sidelining the main character to focus on supporting characters are clear signs of a show that is abandoning its original storylines in favor of more fan pleasing content.

Conclusion

While a TV series might have a few missteps or periods of decline, recognizing these signs can help you determine whether the show is worth sticking around for. As a viewer, it's important to trust your instincts about a show's quality and consider leaving if the signs of decline are too clear. This can help ensure that the industry continues to produce high-quality content that meets various audience expectations.