If you needed a more clear example of TV-based original superhero shows, there is none more showing than this. NBC has decided to pull their two-part Cape finale from TV and only air the episodes online.
The series was on a steep decline in ratings since it’s start back in January, and NBC had even cut it’s original order of 13 episodes for the season down to 10. Now they have pulled this past week’s episode and have decided to air both parts of the finale online only. From TV Line:
The disappointing performance of both The Cape (which early last month saw its 13-episode order cut to 10) and The Event has caused much shuffling of NBC’s midseason schedule. At first, The Event‘s return from a winter hiatus was pushed back a week so that The Cape could wrap its run on February 28 with a pair of episodes. Instead, NBC made way for Chuck (no argument there!), leaving The Cape‘s finale unaired.
Between this news, the fact that ABC’s No Ordinary Family has been put on hold, and the critical reception that Heroes got, you can expect this to be the final straw for networks pioneering in the realm of “original” super hero series.
No word whether this will affect prospect series like FX’s Powers adaptation or Warner’s upcoming Wonder Woman series, but you can expect a few executives freeze the idea of any new original comic book properties in the near future.
Gilbertgingras
March 29, 2011 at 11:47 pmTo bad that they took the Cape away I tought it was a great minie series and really hoping that they will bring him back. I always look forward to watching the Cape. Hope you bring him back.
Anonymous
March 5, 2011 at 9:01 pmGo Cape go?
Anonymous
March 5, 2011 at 8:59 pmI love you cape Your rock. Keep up the Goodwork. I hope they put out new things On superheros channel.They should make channel with just superheros. Not cartoons. While that Adutles And Kids could watch. With out Killing off their chacaters. While know it just a movie. Only movie. For crying out loud. Chacaters come back. I love movies. Xmen Capton AmericaAvengers. Other heros.I always wonder how many supewrheros are thier.I wish they make channel With just superheros shows. One channel anyways. For the fans. Iam a nuber one fan.SF. Superfan. Justice league. Many more. Keep up the good job. Awesome. HAppyending.Go Cape You looking great. Great cape. I like the picture.