Each year, as winter turns to spring, the fate of television shows hangs in the balance during CBS Renew/Cancel Week 23. This pivotal early-spring period is when CBS executives analyze mid-season ratings to determine which shows will be renewed and which will be canceled.
Why Renewal Week Is Critical for CBS Shows
This period acts as a mid-season report card. By this point, shows that premiered in the fall have a full run of data, and new mid-season entries have had enough episodes to find an audience. The holiday slowdown is over, giving a clear picture of a show’s true strength and momentum.
CBS Predictions: Safe Bets, Bubble Shows, and Likely Cancellations
Based on ratings trends, network strategy, and industry analysis, here is the current outlook for CBS shows as renewal decisions approach.
Locked for Renewal
These shows are the pillars of the CBS schedule. Their consistent performance makes renewal highly likely.
Tracker
CBS’s top new hit leads in total viewers and performs strongly across key demographics, making it very safe.
FBI Franchise (FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, FBI: International)
These Dick Wolf procedurals deliver reliable ratings and remain cornerstone properties for the network.
NCIS Franchise (NCIS, NCIS: Origins)
The flagship series continues to draw massive audiences, while newer entries have performed well enough to secure their future.
Fire Country & Sheriff Country
Both series have built loyal fan bases and are considered strong performers.
Ghosts and Elsbeth
Ghosts remains a comedy standout, while Elsbeth has successfully carved out its own identity.
Unscripted Staples (Survivor, The Amazing Race, 48 Hours)
These shows are cost-effective and consistently deliver dependable ratings, making renewal almost automatic.
On the Bubble: Shows with Uncertain Futures
These shows sit in the danger zone, with their fate hinging on recent performance.
NCIS: Sydney
Considered the most at risk. Its weak ratings and reduced network support are major warning signs, making cancellation likely.
Watson
A true toss-up. It needs a noticeable ratings improvement to prove long-term potential.
DMV
As a new comedy, it must show audience growth and better retention to survive.
Harlan Coben’s Final Twist
The series debuted with very low viewership. A schedule change gave it another chance, but it needs a strong turnaround.
Hollywood Squares
Cheap to produce but treated as filler. Its performance depends heavily on lead-in support, and tougher scheduling could hurt it.
Already Canceled or Ending
The Neighborhood will conclude with its final episode later in the season.
After Midnight has already been canceled.
Key Factors Deciding a Show’s Fate
Renewal decisions aren’t based on a single metric. CBS executives consider several factors:
- Key Demographic Performance
Advertising revenue depends heavily on adult demographic appeal. Strong total viewership alone is no longer enough. - Streaming and Delayed Viewing
Performance on Paramount+ and delayed viewing can help save bubble shows if engagement is strong. - Production Cost vs. Value
High-budget dramas must perform well, while lower-cost shows can survive with modest ratings. - Franchise Strategy
CBS relies heavily on established franchises and may cancel weaker spin-offs to protect core brands. - Overall Trend
Shows gaining momentum stand a better chance than those steadily declining.
How You Can Help Save a Bubble Show
Fan support still matters. Here’s what actually helps:
- Watch live on broadcast television to boost initial ratings.
- Stream legally on Paramount+ or the CBS app shortly after airing.
- Create positive social media buzz using official show hashtags during and after episodes.