15 Sitcoms That Only Lasted One Season

Not every sitcom can be a long-running hit like Friends or The Office. Some shows come and go in a flash, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t make an impact. These one-season sitcoms still packed a punch in their brief stint on air. So, here are 15 short-lived sitcoms that left audiences wanting more.

Freaks and Geeks

A coming-of-age dramedy that gained cult status, this show presents the awkwardness of high school like no other. Despite critical acclaim, this show about outcasts and misfits was canceled after just one season, but it launched the careers of future stars like James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Jason Segel.

Surviving Jack

Starring Law & Order alum Christopher Meloni, it was set in the ’90s and followed a strict yet loving father learning to parent his teenage kids as his wife returned to medical school. The show had a unique combination of heartfelt family moments and laugh-out-loud humor. 

Undeclared

Another Judd Apatow creation, Undeclared, followed a group of college freshmen as they figured out relationships, friendships, and academics. With witty humor and relatable characters, it had all the makings of a hit. Sadly, it only lasted one season, but its offbeat charm still resonates with fans.

My So-Called Life

A teen drama, My So-Called Life tackled serious topics like identity, love, and social pressure through the lens of angsty 15-year-old Angela Chase (played by Claire Danes). Although it only lasted 19 episodes, it was praised for its authentic portrayal of adolescence and remains a beloved classic.

The Tick

This live-action adaptation of the satirical comic book featured Patrick Warburton as the obliviously heroic, blue-suited Tick. Filled with zany characters and deadpan humor, The Tick gained a small but loyal following, but its oddball charm couldn’t keep it on the air for more than one season.

Selfie

Selfie starred Gillan, a social media-obsessed woman who seeks to “rebrand” herself with the help of John Cho’s Henry, a marketing guru. Despite its sharp commentary on modern life and online culture, the sitcom struggled with low ratings and was canceled after just 13 episodes. 

Bunheads

Created by Gilmore Girls writer Amy Sherman-Palladino, Bunheads follows a Las Vegas showgirl who ends up teaching ballet in a small town. Despite the sharp dialogue and endearing characters, the show was canceled after one season, which left fans devastated.

Firefly

Although Firefly is technically a space-western, its witty dialogue and memorable characters give it a sitcom-like charm. Created by Joss Whedon, this fan-favorite sci-fi show was notoriously canceled by Fox after just 14 episodes, sparking outrage among its passionate fanbase.

Enlisted

A heartfelt comedy about three brothers serving in the Army, Enlisted blended slapstick humor with emotional moments. Its portrayal of army life, with a focus on family dynamics and camaraderie, earned praise, but low viewership caused the show to be short-lived.

Go On

Starring Friends alum Matthew Perry, this show centered around a sports radio host who joins a support group after the loss of his wife. The show brought humor and heartfelt moments, but despite Perry’s star power, it was canceled after just one season.

The Ben Stiller Show

Before Zoolander and Meet the Parents, Ben Stiller had his sketch comedy show featuring early appearances from comedians like Janeane Garofalo. It was smart, irreverent, and ahead of its time, but low ratings caused it to be axed after just 13 episodes.

Trophy Wife

This family comedy starred Malin Åkerman as a former party girl who marries an older man with two ex-wives and three kids. Trophy Wife was praised for its sharp writing and layered characters, but despite positive reviews, it didn’t last beyond one season.

Outsourced

Set in an Indian call center for an American novelties company, it was a workplace sitcom that explored cultural differences with humor. Despite its potential, the show faced criticism and was canceled after just one season, though it remains a unique concept in sitcom history.

Mulaney

Stand-up comedian John Mulaney brought his distinct sense of humor to this semi-autobiographical sitcom. Despite Mulaney’s talent, it never quite found its rhythm, leading to a one-season run. However, Mulaney’s fans still praise his unique style and writing.

Square Pegs

This quirky teen sitcom starred Sarah Jessica Parker as a high schooler trying to fit in with the cool crowd. Its offbeat humor and ahead-of-its-time commentary on cliques and popularity earned it a cult following, even though it was canceled after just 20 episodes.