FOX Cancels 'Dollhouse', Surprises Few

Wow, Dollhouse is really starting to click and just aired arguably its best episode! People are really starting to pick up what it’s putting down. The cast is awesome and it’s got a super-interesting futuristic end-game and oh look it’s been cancelled. FOX, curse your sudden but inevitable betrayal!

The Hollywood Reporter originally reported the news a little after 3pmET. I say that it’s not surprising because, as a scifi fan, I’m well aware of the network’s modus operandi. The warning signs were all there – a less than desirable timeslot, the support of a relatively small but loyal fanbase, an extremely interesting mystery that’s starting to pay-off, strong DVR/streaming numbers, reducing the budget in the second season, not pairing it with Fringe this season (which made so much sense it hurt my brain that it didn’t happen), and finally, it’s a scifi show. It’s like FOX is some sort of creature that delights on feeding on the pain and anger of nerds. But the biggest warning sign was that, after the epic ep where we learn how Sierra became a doll, they announced the next episode wouldn’t air until December. December! Basically a whole month away and benching it for November sweeps. If that’s not the move of a net trying to kill a show, I don’t know what is.
Dan Fienberg over at HitFix has flushed out the info on its limited future. The remaining nine episodes will air two at a time December 4th, 11th, and 18th with the final three airing starting January 8th. The crew is currently shooting the 11th episode which will give the writers time to adjust for a series finale.
If you’re interested in Joss Whedon’s reaction, he commented over at Whedonesque.com stating how proud he is of everyone working on the show, joking a bit, and vows “By the time the last episode airs, you’ll know what my next project is.” Though I’m very sad that FOX continues to blow goats, I’m very excited for what Joss has planned in the future.