Fantasy Shows Are Canceled All The Time, So Watch These 7 That Had Proper Endings

Currently, the fantasy genre is going through a unique phase, marked by its peak and a decline simultaneously. Shows like Game of Thrones have revolutionized the fantasy landscape, leading networks and streaming platforms to invest heavily in original epic fantasies. In the past two decades, nerd culture has become mainstream, making fantasy films merely blockbusters. However, despite the massive investment, many of these productions fail to attain the level of success that they strive to achieve, reflecting the influence of their predecessors.

As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve noticed a recurring trend: Countless TV series were hyped as the next “Game of Thrones,” only to be abruptly cut short in this streaming era. The issue lies in overinvestment in shows that executives later struggle to justify continuing, despite the potential for growth if given more time. It’s a shame, really, because well-structured fantasy series with a definitive ending are hard to come by these days. However, there are some relatively recent productions that manage to tell a compelling story from start to finish.

7. A Discovery Of Witches (2018-2022)

Sky Studios | 3 Seasons

The TV series titled “A Discovery of Witches” was adapted from a trilogy of novels and ran for three seasons, each corresponding to one book. Unlike many shows, it didn’t get canceled but ended as planned, wrapping up in a way that mirrors the original material. In this series, Teresa Palmer portrays the character Diana Bishop, a witch, and Matthew Goode plays Matthew Clairmont, a vampire. Interestingly, the narrative of A Discovery of Witches is more scholarly in nature due to author Deborah Harkness’ academic background in the history of science, making it stand out among typical vampire romances.

In “A Discovery of Witches” Season 2, Diana and Matthew engage in a captivating love story that intertwines with the complexities of magic and time-travel. The series beautifully juxtaposes contemporary Oxford University against Elizabethan London, creating an intriguing blend of settings. The narrative flows seamlessly from one chapter to another, offering a well-constructed plotline. The second season’s finale sets up an exciting climax that ultimately provides a gratifying conclusion.

6. Arcane (2021-2024)

Riot Games & Netflix | 2 Seasons

The concluding part of ‘Arcane’ leaves room for potential sequels, as it was crafted with that purpose in mind. Nevertheless, this appears to be the finale of the original series. It neatly ties up the complex personal relationships depicted within the story, and resolves the political turmoil of this period. The journey shared by Vi and Jinx reaches a decisive conclusion, the immediate danger posed by Ambessa is neutralized, and Piltover and Zaun unite for their climactic battle. This sets the stage for further tales to be told.

The peaceful closing moments of Arcane beautifully achieve its intent, conveying the enduring nature of relationships amidst uncertain future events. Without a shadow of a doubt, Arcane stands out as one of the most exceptional fantasy TV series available today and could very well be crowned the best animated fantasy TV show ever made. It’s highly recommended that you watch it to appreciate its breathtaking animation, thought-provoking political themes, and heartrending emotional journeys.

5. Game Of Thrones (2011-2019)

HBO | 8 Seasons

The TV series, Game of Thrones, remains a subject of debate; it held the title of global phenomenon for nearly a decade until unexpectedly losing its status due to dissatisfaction with its controversial final season. Yet, it was widely appreciated for seven seasons and continues to warrant acknowledgment for its significant impact on popular culture. Novice viewers will continue to encounter intricate political machinations interwoven with delicate fantasy elements that captivated millions previously.

Regarding the finale, there are aspects worth appreciating in season 8 of “Game of Thrones.” Some fans may find it intriguing to debate how Daenerys was destined to become the “Mad Queen,” while the Stark girls experience fulfilling conclusions to their storylines. It’s important to note that this being the final season, the show concludes various plotlines in a manner that leaves no doubt about its ending, but also suggests that the characters’ lives don’t simply cease.

4. Amphibia (2019-2022)

Disney | 3 Seasons

The animated series titled “Amphibia” shares similarities with the popular show “Gravity Falls,” having emerged from a similar creative wave. Uniquely, it is structured as a trilogy, unlike “Gravity Falls” which concluded after two seasons according to its creator’s plan. Although “The Owl House” followed, it was ultimately terminated. “Amphibia” offers a well-defined three-act storyline with a captivating world and consistent humor that is both creative and amusing throughout its run.

13-year-old Anne unwittingly travels to a realm inhabited by amphibian people, where she is adopted by a frog family before she can return home. She befriends a young frog named Sprig in this extraordinary setting. Despite the outlandish premise, the series manages to resonate, and Anne and Sprig’s escapades culminating in a heartwarming and emotional finale are captivating. Amphibia successfully charted a course through a terrain that was not particularly welcoming for a show of its kind, ultimately delivering a compelling narrative.

3. The Sandman (2022-2025)

Netflix | 2 Seasons

Certainly, it’s worth noting that “The Sandman” hasn’t concluded just yet, and its choice to wrap up with its second season despite having ample source material might have been influenced by several factors, including doubts about a potential renewal. Yet, since it was clear this would be the finale, the writers could utilize the comics to craft a powerful, although unique, ending for “The Sandman” Season 2 that carries the perfect sense of finality.

In simpler terms, “The Sandman season 1” offers a deep and enigmatic storyline, with innovative perspectives on divine entities and abstract ideas like death and slumber. It explores profound themes such as sorrow, affection, and what it means to be human. The acting is exceptional, as numerous actors masterfully portray inhuman characters in a relatable manner, demonstrating their versatility. Now would be an ideal moment to get acquainted with “The Sandman”, and by July, viewers will have the complete, poignant tale at their fingertips.

2. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008-2020)

Cartoon Network & Disney | 7 Seasons

Star Wars: The Clone Wars initially concluded with an acceptable ending, but its revival in the 2020s resulted in a truly exceptional finale that significantly impacted the entire Star Wars universe. Given the sprawling narrative of The Clone Wars, finding a fitting conclusion proved challenging due to the scarcity of straightforward story arcs to resolve. Nevertheless, the central theme throughout was the war itself and the destiny of Anakin’s Padawan character, who was specifically introduced for this series.

The closing episode of The Clone Wars portrays the war concluding, paving the way for the Empire’s rule, and illustrates how these events impact Ashoka and the remaining clones. The final scenes underscore the sorrow experienced by those who participated in the Clone Wars, regardless of whether their participation was voluntary or not. Over its seven seasons, The Clone Wars explores the intricacies of this era within the Star Wars saga from various perspectives, and it certainly delivers an impressive finale.

1. His Dark Materials (2019-2022)

HBO | 3 Seasons

His Dark Materials debuted during the apprehensive time just after Game of Thrones ended, and demonstrated the possibility of reviving classic fantasy adaptations as television series. Moreover, it benefited from HBO’s support, a network renowned for creating expansive fantasy realms. Having completed eight seasons in Westeros, they were confident they could manage three seasons for a fresh tale, one for each book.

The intriguing fantasy world of “His Dark Materials” mirrors aspects of our own reality (a connection further emphasized in its multi-dimensional narrative), leaving a lasting impression. Notable actors like James McAvoy and Ruth Wilson deliver impressive performances, but it’s Dafne Keen and Amir Wilson who truly shine as the young protagonists. “His Dark Materials” is a captivating fantasy series that may have been terminated in less favorable circumstances, but thanks to its faithful adaptation of the books, we are fortunate to have a powerful conclusion.

2025-06-05 20:40