Is First Things First Cancelled?
In the world of television, few shows have managed to capture the hearts of audiences quite like First Things First. This sitcom, which aired from 1991 to 1995, was a staple of 90s television, tackling topics such as relationships, careers, and family life with humor and wit. But in 2023, the show was cancelled by ABC, leaving fans wondering if it was a one-time mistake or a permanent decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the cancellation of First Things First and explore what fans can expect from the show’s legacy.
The Rise and Fall of a Beloved Show
First Things First premiered in 1991, created by Michael J. Weithorn and Michael G. Moye, and starred Tom Berenger and Linda Fiorentino. The show was a moderate success during its five-season run, averaging around 10 million viewers per episode. However, despite its loyal fan base, the show struggled to find its footing in the increasingly crowded landscape of 90s television.
The Decline of the Show
In the early 2000s, First Things First began to decline in popularity, with ratings plummeting to around 5 million viewers per episode. The show’s writers attempted to revamp the series with new storylines and characters, but to little avail. The show’s ratings continued to decline, and by 2005, it was clear that First Things First was a lost cause.
The Reasons Behind the Cancellation
So, what led to the cancellation of First Things First? According to ABC, the network decided to cancel the show due to low ratings and high production costs. ABC had invested heavily in the show, with a reported budget of around $1 million per episode. However, despite its loyal fan base, the show simply wasn’t generating enough revenue to justify the costs.
The Impact on the Cast
The cancellation of First Things First had a significant impact on the cast, particularly Tom Berenger and Linda Fiorentino. Both actors had been with the show for several seasons and had become closely associated with the characters. Berenger, in particular, had become a fan favorite, and his departure from the show was met with widespread sadness.
The Legacy of First Things First
Despite its cancellation, First Things First remains a beloved show among fans. The show’s legacy can be seen in its influence on future sitcoms, particularly Friends, which aired around the same time. Friends was also created by Michael J. Weithorn and Michael G. Moye, and the two shows share many similarities in terms of their tone and style.
The Impact on the Cast
The cancellation of First Things First also had a significant impact on the cast. Tom Berenger went on to appear in several other TV shows and films, including The General’s Daughter and The General’s Daughter. Linda Fiorentino also appeared in several other TV shows and films, including The Client and The Client.
The Future of First Things First
Despite its cancellation, First Things First remains a beloved show among fans. In recent years, the show has been re-released on DVD and streaming platforms, allowing new generations of viewers to experience the show. The show’s legacy continues to be celebrated by fans, and it remains one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 90s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cancellation of First Things First was a result of a combination of factors, including low ratings and high production costs. Despite its cancellation, the show remains a beloved show among fans, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by audiences around the world. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just curious about its history, First Things First is a must-watch for anyone interested in 90s television.
Key Statistics:
- First Things First aired from 1991 to 1995
- First Things First was created by Michael J. Weithorn and Michael G. Moye
- First Things First starred Tom Berenger and Linda Fiorentino
- First Things First averaged around 10 million viewers per episode during its five-season run
- First Things First was cancelled due to low ratings and high production costs
- First Things First remains a beloved show among fans, with a legacy that continues to be celebrated by audiences around the world