When Accused first premiered, it was met with praise. However, it had to take a long break due to the writer and actor strikes of 2023. Has that had an effect on the second season? What are the chances that Accused season 3 will happen?
When we come to the end of a season, we look at the future. We want to know if there’s a chance shows will be renewed or not. Accused season 2 wrapped on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Now our eyes are on if there could be more stories within the anthology.
This is just a prediction post at this point. I mostly take a look at the linear ratings for on the day the episodes air, which offer a good idea as to whether the show has a chance of renewal. The linear ratings aren’t the only things that the networks will look at, but they are big factors.
Things aren’t looking good for Accused season 3
I have to be honest and say that I don’t expect this series to be renewed. It’s a shame, as well, because this is a show that I really wanted to see continue. The first season was excellent in testing our bias and bringing episodes that really made us think and question what we hear and see.
The second season just hasn’t brought the same level of excellence. While some episodes have stood out, such as “Val’s Story,” others have been predictable or haven’t offered much in the way of a lesson.
The break between the two seasons also clearly had a knock-on effect. According to TV Series Finale, Accused saw a 64% drop in the demo between the two seasons. The total audience average between the seasons dropped by 41%.
I’m not all that worried by the total audience drop. There are animated shows that see fewer total audiences but have been renewed or will likely be renewed. It’s the demo that has me worried. This is the lowest-rated series on FOX.
Accused didn’t get a fair shot with season 2
I will say that it will be unfair to the series if it is canceled. This is a show that didn’t get a fair chance.
Let’s start with the fact that it was supposed to be in the 8 p.m. Tuesday night slot. It was then pushed to an hour later when there was a change to the premiere date because of the Vice Presidential Debate. FOX didn’t announce this officially, though, confusing some fans.
On top of that, the wait of a whole TV season between the seasons didn’t help. While 911: Lone Star wasn’t hit too hard with that wait, that series was already established with a loyal following. One season isn’t enough to establish that following.
Plus, Tuesdays are a competitive night. A lot of FOX shows struggle on this night. We just have to look at Lucifer, Prodigal Son, and The Gifted.
So, I do expect to find out that FOX isn’t going ahead with Accused. One thing that could save it is that 911: Lone Star is ending with season 5, but I think that just opens room for a pilot.
Accused is available to stream on Hulu.
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