CBS executives recently announced the cancellation of several shows, including NCIS: Hawaii and CSI: Vegas, citing strategic scheduling decisions driven by performance metrics and financial considerations. According to The Wrap, CBS, having clinched the title of the most-watched broadcast network in prime time for the 16th consecutive season, faced tough choices amid its stellar ratings.
George Cheeks, president and CEO of CBS, emphasized the importance of balancing budgets and available slots on Paramount+, highlighting the network’s need to keep the schedule fresh while maintaining momentum. Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining a competitive lineup while introducing new content. She stressed the network’s commitment to making tough decisions, even when faced with strong performances from existing shows.
Despite the cancellations, CBS remains dedicated to its staple franchises, including the CSI series, with ongoing projects in development. Reisenbach reaffirmed CBS’s confidence in the enduring appeal of the NCIS franchise, with plans for the original series and NCIS: Origins returning in the fall, and NCIS: Sydney slated for a spring debut. This strategic focus on established properties reflects CBS’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality programming to its audience.