Creating a dramatic cliffhanger may seem like a straightforward task, but maintaining the integrity of the storyline that follows is a much more complex challenge. Many television shows have made controversial narrative choices that left audiences yearning for changes that never came. Even more frustrating is when a series boldly introduces a groundbreaking plot twist, only to subsequently reverse it. This tendency to revert to the status quo can leave fans feeling perplexed and disappointed, particularly when it involves beloved shows.
Various series, from Game of Thrones to Cobra Kai, have made the decision to undo significant story developments for diverse reasons. In some cases, the narratives simply lacked coherence or received unfavorable audience feedback, compelling writers to adjust their course. In other instances, the preference for an easier resolution has cost some of the most respected programs in television history. Let’s explore ten noteworthy examples of shows reversing their bold narrative choices.
10 Bringing Back Gallifrey
Doctor Who
The destruction of Gallifrey during the first Time War was a transformative moment for Doctor Who during its 2005 reboot. This pivotal arc provided depth to the Ninth, Tenth, and Eleventh Doctors, highlighting the profound grief and guilt borne from these tragic events. However, when Chris Chibnall assumed the role of showrunner, the decision to resurrect Gallifrey seemed abrupt, especially after the emotionally wrought storyline presented in the 50th Anniversary Special, “The Day of the Doctor.”In this episode, an unprecedented coalition of thirteen Doctors worked together to freeze Gallifrey in time instead of allowing its destruction. Unfortunately, this resolution was short-lived, as the Master obliterated Gallifrey once again in season 12’s “Spyfall: Part Two,”unveiling a narrative that felt almost contradictory.
9 Killing Brian Griffin
Family Guy
Brian Griffin’s death in Family Guy marked a watershed moment in animated television, quickly followed by its own retcon. In the episode “Life of Brian,”viewers were devastated as Stewie said his final goodbye after Brian was fatally injured. The impact of this loss resonated deeply, particularly with Stewie, who was profoundly affected. Just two episodes later, in “Christmas Guy,”Stewie leveraged his time-travel ability to resurrect Brian, a move that—while it highlighted the risks the show could take—ultimately undercut the gravity of Brian’s storyline.
8 Bobby Ewing’s Death
Dallas
Bobby Ewing’s death in Dallas was met with significant backlash, leading to an eventual retcon that stands among television’s most outrageous moments. Following Bobby’s tragic demise in season 8, season 9 focused heavily on how his death impacted his loved ones, particularly Pam. To the relief of fans, Patrick Duffy was eventually persuaded to return, culminating in one of TV’s most infamous twists: Bobby’s return from the dead revealed that the events of season 9 were merely Pam’s dream.
7 Rachel & Joey’s Relationship
Friends
The romantic pairing of Rachel and Joey in Friends was a divisive choice among fans, especially since the show had previously hinted at potential relationships without pursuing them. Ross’s heartache over their romance added tension, but it was a relief when the two realized their connection was purely platonic. Their brief relationship felt out of place, suggesting an attempt to inject novelty late in the series, which ultimately contradicted established character dynamics.
6 Penny & Raj’s Hookup
The Big Bang Theory
In The Big Bang Theory, Penny and Raj’s unexpected rendezvous at the close of season 4 caught audiences by surprise. The aftermath of this cliffhanger left viewers intrigued, but the storyline was quickly clarified at the start of season 5, stating that although they attempted to sleep together, the encounter was muddled due to Penny’s drunken state. This twist effectively pivoted back to the central focus of Penny’s evolving relationship with Leonard.
5 Principal Skinner’s Identity
The Simpsons
The narrative shift regarding Principal Seymour Skinner’s identity in The Simpsons proved unpopular with audiences. The twist that he was actually Armin Tamzarian, who had assumed the real Skinner’s identity, was introduced in the infamous episode, “The Principal and the Pauper.”Although this bold attempt at storytelling initially piqued interest, it was soon overshadowed by viewer dissatisfaction, leading the show to largely sidestep this storyline in future episodes.
4 The Conners’ Lottery Win
Roseanne
The ninth season of Roseanne represented a substantial retcon, particularly concerning the lottery win storyline. Ultimately, it was revealed that the entire plot line was a fiction crafted by Roseanne herself, serving as a coping mechanism for her grief. This dramatic twist undermined the joy of winning and solidified the characters’ struggles, but many fans were left disappointed that the family didn’t get to enjoy the rewards of their financial triumph.
3 Jim & Pam’s Marriage On The Rocks
The Office
Jim and Pam’s trajectory in The Office was integral to its charm, making their marital strife late in the series a distressing turn of events. Their generally harmonious relationship made the sudden introduction of conflict feel contrived and out of character. Fortunately, the struggle proved temporary, and fans rejoiced as the show aligned itself with the couple’s endearing harmony once again.
2 Dennis Goes To North Dakota
It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia
Dennis’ departure from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia to North Dakota evokes curiosity, particularly as it coincided with Glenn Howerton’s commitments to another show. Although this exit provided a plausible explanation for his temporary absence, his return in season 15 felt somewhat rushed, leaving fans questioning the necessity of such an elaborate narrative shift for a relatively brief span.
1 Donna & Randy’s Relationship
That ’70s Show
The arrival of Randy in That ’70s Show during Eric’s absence drew mixed reactions, as it seemed to divert attention away from the established endgame pairing of Eric and Donna. As Donna’s brief romance with Randy unfolded, it quickly became apparent that it held little value, especially when Eric returned to reclaim his place in her life. This diversion felt unnecessary, highlighting a character who ultimately served no greater purpose beyond being a temporary love interest.