The Real Reasons Why Networks Canceled Shows People Liked Watching

Judd Apatow Refused To Change The True Essence Of Freaks & Geeks

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Freaks and Geeks aired for just one season from 1999-2000 on NBC. Created by Judd Apatow, the series centered on a high school teen and her fellow “freaks” and her geeky brother’s gang of pals. It was canceled after just 12 episodes aired. While never a ratings hit, it has since grown a huge cult following.

Network exec Garth Ancier was the one responsible for the cancellation. He explained in 2014 that Apatow didn’t want to make the changes that Ancier suggested to “improve” the program, which included adding victories for the freaks and the geeks. Apatow thought it would change the point of the show and wouldn’t budge.