For hardcore fans, the cancellation of a beloved television show can feel like a death in the family. The ardor is sometimes so great that letter-writing campaigns are organized (like way back in the day with "Star Trek"). Occasionally, outdoor demonstrations are held. Nowadays, social media protests spreading across multiple platforms is a sure-fire way to grab the attention of networks and advertisers. Alas, at the end of the day, sometimes there's nothing to be done because it's strictly a cold, hard business decision that should look good at the next shareholders' meeting.

When series don't inflame viewers' passions, the show is left up to the whims of network programmers who value stability above all else (see: the un-killable franchise that is "Law & Order"). They realize not every series is destined to be a top 10 juggernaut, so they look for solid performance in key ratings demographics that might not show...