Unfortunately, there isn’t a “next Tommy episode” coming out. The series was cancelled after its first season by CBS in May 2020 and has not been picked up by another network or streaming service. This article will explore the reasons behind the cancellation, the show’s premise, its potential for renewal, and answer frequently asked questions about the series’ fate.
The Unfortunate Demise of Tommy
CBS’s decision to axe Tommy, starring Edie Falco as the trailblazing first female police chief of Los Angeles, came as a surprise to many viewers who appreciated its blend of procedural drama and political commentary. The show premiered to decent ratings, but the numbers steadily declined throughout its run, ultimately leading to its cancellation after just twelve episodes. This decision was part of a larger wave of cancellations by CBS that included several other first-season dramas. The cost of production combined with lower-than-expected viewership often drives these decisions in the competitive world of television.
A Recap: What Was Tommy All About?
Tommy followed Abigail “Tommy” Thomas, a former NYPD officer with a reputation for challenging the status quo, as she navigates the complex political landscape of Los Angeles. Falco’s portrayal of Tommy was lauded for its authenticity and strength. The show explored themes of police corruption, social justice, political maneuvering, and the challenges faced by a woman in a position of power. Tommy’s unorthodox methods and unwavering dedication to doing what’s right often put her at odds with powerful figures within the city government and the police force, creating compelling dramatic tension. The show aimed to provide a realistic, yet hopeful, depiction of law enforcement in the modern era.
Why Was Tommy Cancelled? Key Factors
Several factors contributed to Tommy’s cancellation:
- Ratings Decline: While the premiere garnered significant attention, viewership numbers steadily declined as the season progressed. This is a crucial metric for networks as it directly impacts advertising revenue.
- Critical Reception: While Edie Falco’s performance was widely praised, the show itself received mixed reviews. Some critics felt the storylines were predictable and the political commentary lacked nuance.
- Production Costs: Network dramas, especially those filmed in locations like Los Angeles, can be incredibly expensive to produce. If the viewership doesn’t justify the investment, cancellation becomes a likely outcome.
- Competition from Streaming Services: The rise of streaming services has fundamentally altered the television landscape, offering viewers an overwhelming array of content options. Traditional network television faces increasing pressure to compete for audience attention.
- CBS’s Overall Programming Strategy: CBS often favors procedurals with established franchises and a loyal fanbase. Tommy, being a new show with a more politically charged premise, may not have aligned perfectly with the network’s broader programming goals.
The Possibility of Renewal: A Glimmer of Hope?
Although Tommy was cancelled by CBS, the possibility of it being picked up by another network or streaming service remains, albeit slim. Fan campaigns and petitions often play a role in demonstrating audience interest, but ultimately, the decision hinges on financial viability. Streaming services are constantly searching for compelling content, and the existing fanbase for Tommy, combined with Edie Falco’s star power, could make it an attractive acquisition. However, there has been no official announcement regarding potential renewal, and the passage of time diminishes the likelihood of a revival.
What the Cast and Crew Said About the Cancellation
The cancellation of Tommy was met with disappointment from the cast and crew. Edie Falco expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play the character, acknowledging the show’s potential to spark meaningful conversations about law enforcement and social justice. Other cast members echoed her sentiments, highlighting the show’s unique perspective and the positive working environment. While disappointed by the cancellation, many expressed hope that the show’s themes would continue to resonate with viewers and inspire dialogue about important social issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tommy
FAQ 1: Will Tommy be available on DVD or Blu-ray?
As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a DVD or Blu-ray release of Tommy. However, the complete first season is available for purchase on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play.
FAQ 2: Is there a petition to bring back Tommy?
Yes, there have been several online petitions created by fans hoping to persuade CBS or another network to revive Tommy. While these petitions can demonstrate audience support, their effectiveness in influencing network decisions is limited. A quick search on popular petition websites will reveal these fan efforts.
FAQ 3: Who created and produced Tommy?
The series was created by Paul Attanasio, who also served as an executive producer. Attanasio is known for his work on other acclaimed television dramas, including Homicide: Life on the Street and House, M.D.
FAQ 4: Can I watch Tommy on Netflix?
Currently, Tommy is not available on Netflix. Check other streaming services like Paramount+ (which is affiliated with CBS) and Hulu to see if it is available in their library. Streaming platform availability can change, so it is always best to check the streaming service directly.
FAQ 5: What are some similar shows to Tommy that I might enjoy?
If you enjoyed Tommy, you might also like Madam Secretary, which features a strong female lead navigating the complexities of government. Blue Bloods offers a more traditional police procedural format with a family dynamic. The Good Fight focuses on legal drama and political commentary. These shows share similar themes and cater to audiences interested in strong characters and topical storylines.
FAQ 6: Did Tommy tackle any real-life social issues?
Yes, Tommy addressed several relevant social issues, including police corruption, racial bias in law enforcement, homelessness, and immigration. The show aimed to portray these issues with nuance and complexity, prompting viewers to consider different perspectives.
FAQ 7: How many episodes of Tommy were produced?
Only twelve episodes of Tommy were produced for its first and only season.
FAQ 8: What was the critical reception of Edie Falco’s performance in Tommy?
Edie Falco’s performance as Abigail “Tommy” Thomas was widely praised by critics. Her portrayal was lauded for its authenticity, strength, and ability to convey the character’s complexity. Many considered her the strongest aspect of the show.
FAQ 9: Are there any behind-the-scenes features or interviews with the cast available online?
Yes, various interviews with the cast and crew, including Edie Falco, can be found on YouTube and other online platforms. These interviews offer insights into the making of the show, the characters’ development, and the themes explored.
FAQ 10: Will the show ever get a reboot or revival?
While it’s impossible to predict the future, the possibility of a reboot or revival of Tommy is currently low. However, the television industry is constantly evolving, and revivals of cancelled shows have become increasingly common. If there is significant and sustained fan interest, and if the right creative team can be assembled, a revival could be a possibility in the future.
FAQ 11: Who were the main cast members besides Edie Falco?
Besides Edie Falco, the main cast included Michael Chernus as Ken Rosey, Adelaide Clemens as Blake Sullivan, Thomas Sadoski as Trevor Gray, Olivia Lucy Phillip as Kate Jones, Joseph Lyle Taylor as Doug Dudik, and Vladimir Caamaño as Abner Diaz.
FAQ 12: What channel originally aired Tommy?
Tommy originally aired on the CBS television network.