“Schitt’s Creek” wasn’t a show that exploded onto the scene. It simmered, gaining a devoted following over six seasons before becoming a cultural phenomenon and sweeping the Emmys in . But as the Rose family’s journey to self-discovery reached its critically acclaimed conclusion, a question lingered for fans: why end a show at the height of its popularity? The answer, according to creator Dan Levy, was a deliberate one, rooted in a desire to maintain the quality of the storytelling and conclude the narrative on his own terms.
The Canadian sitcom, created by Levy and his father, Eugene Levy, began airing in and initially found a modest audience on Pop TV in the United States. It wasn’t an overnight success, but its quirky characters and heartwarming storylines gradually resonated with viewers. By its sixth and final season, “Schitt’s Creek” had become a bona fide hit, earning widespread critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal fanbase. The show’s success culminated in a record-breaking Emmy run, securing nine awards in .
Despite this peak, Levy had a clear vision for the show’s lifespan. In a interview with Entertainment Weekly, he revealed that he always knew how the story would end. Initially, he envisioned five seasons, but when given the opportunity to extend the series, he decided to add just two more. “I had thought it was going to be five,” Levy explained. “Then we were given the opportunity to do two more seasons, and I thought, ‘Okay, I can tell the end of this story in 28 episodes.’ I feel really confident that we’ve really mined everything we could.”
This wasn’t a case of network pressure or creative burnout. Levy actively sought to avoid the pitfalls that plague many long-running series – a decline in quality or a feeling of stagnation. He wanted to ensure that “Schitt’s Creek” went out on a high note, preserving the integrity of the narrative he and his team had carefully crafted. “I at no point wanted to compromise on quality or storytelling,” he stated, echoing sentiments expressed in a prior interview with Variety.
The decision to end the show wasn’t made lightly. Levy acknowledged the rare privilege of having the creative freedom to determine the show’s fate. “It’s not lost on us what a rare privilege it is in this industry to get to decide when your show should take its final bow,” he wrote in an Instagram post announcing the show’s conclusion in . “We could never have dreamed that our fans would grow to love and care about these characters in the ways that you have.”
While Levy left the door open to a potential future reunion – “If there is something that comes up down the line that feels compelling enough to bring our troupe back together and continue to tell a story, so be it” – the recent passing of Catherine O’Hara, the actress who brilliantly portrayed Moira Rose, has made that prospect significantly more difficult. O’Hara’s performance was integral to the show’s success, and her absence would undoubtedly alter the dynamic of any potential revival.
“Schitt’s Creek” stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful storytelling and creative control. In an era where television series are often stretched beyond their natural lifespan, the show’s decision to end on its own terms is a refreshing anomaly. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying conclusion is one that is carefully planned and executed, leaving audiences with a sense of closure and a lasting appreciation for the journey.
The show’s legacy extends beyond its critical acclaim and awards. It provided a platform for Eugene Levy to showcase his comedic talents later in his career, and launched the careers of Dan Levy and Annie Murphy, who played David and Alexis Rose, respectively. “Schitt’s Creek” offered a unique blend of humor and heart, exploring themes of family, acceptance, and personal growth. It’s a show that continues to resonate with viewers long after its final episode aired.
Unlike many series that stumble after losing their creative spark, or are unceremoniously cancelled before reaching their potential, “Schitt’s Creek” managed to avoid both fates. It’s a rare example of a show that knew exactly what it wanted to be, and had the foresight to end before it could become something else. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to deliver a satisfying and complete narrative, leaving viewers with a sense of warmth and optimism. It’s a fitting tribute to the Rose family and a testament to the creative vision of Dan and Eugene Levy.
