Ryan Murphy’s “Doctor Odyssey” is facing uncertainty regarding its future on ABC, as the show will not be returning for a second season in the immediate term. This is due to a default cancellation following the expiration of the cast’s options, which will not be renewed, allowing actors like Joshua Jackson and Don Johnson to pursue other projects. However, sources indicate that the show has not been formally canceled, and Murphy is exploring potential creative directions for the series.
Despite showing promise, garnering significant attention with a record-setting trailer that received 77.8 million views within the first 48 hours, “Doctor Odyssey” struggled to maintain its initial momentum during its first season. While the series attracted an average of 13.6 million cross-platform viewers for its premiere, its ratings did not sustain the growth that was anticipated. Additionally, the show faced production challenges as it is expensive to produce and is currently the subject of a harassment lawsuit filed by former crew members.
Ryan Murphy remains a prominent figure at ABC, maintaining his slate with new spinoff series “9-1-1: Nashville,” which will take over the time slot once held by “Doctor Odyssey.” Craig Erwich, President of Disney Television Group, mentioned last month that the network is continuing to engage in creative discussions with Murphy regarding his projects.
“Doctor Odyssey” developed a dedicated cult following thanks to its escapist themes and campy atmosphere, despite its challenges. The ultimate decision on whether the show could see a revival lies with Murphy, who has a history of revisiting past projects. Given the success of shows like HBO’s “The Comeback,” which made a return after nearly two decades, there remains a glimmer of hope for “Doctor Odyssey” fans.
The future for the show may be uncertain for now, but with its engaging narrative and distinctive production, there are possibilities that Ryan Murphy may revisit it if the creative inspiration strikes. As the television landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that shows like “Doctor Odyssey” are worth keeping an eye on.