Summary

• NBC cancels Quantum Leap reboot due to lackluster performance compared to Organized Crime's success on Peacock.
• Quantum Leap showrunners designed potential series finale in Season 2 to hint at future stories.
• Cast members Raymond Lee and Caitlin Bassett express gratitude and regret over cancelation on social media.

NBC has recently announced the cancelation of the Quantum Leap reboot. Jeff Bader, President of Program Planning Strategy at NBCUniversal Entertainment, provided insights into this decision.

During the interview with TVLine, Bader said the decision to cancel Quantum Leap was influenced by its relatively lackluster performance compared to other series like Law & Order: Organized Crime, which is transitioning to Peacock after showing robust viewership numbers. The exec explained:

"Organized Crime is a VERY successful show; this isn't a show that was on the bubble. It's a show that works across the board, and it's very, very strong on streaming. [Moving Season 5 to Peacock] is a win-win for us – 80% of its viewing isn't in the time period where we schedule it, it's delayed on Peacock, so it just made sense to move that to free up the time period."

In contrast, Bader characterized Quantum Leap as a "softer" show in terms of audience numbers and overall impact.

Quantum Leap Season 2 Finale Ended with Open Doors and Future Hopes

The co-showrunners of Quantum Leap, Martin Gero and Dean Georgaris, had previously expressed hope for the series' continuation. They revealed that they had designed the Season 2 finale to serve as a potential series ender while also setting the stage for future stories, should the show have continued.

"When we got the early renewal for Season 2, we knew we were not going to end it on a cliffhanger. We were going to end it on the first scene from Season 3, and we're going to end it with the two characters together, but in a way that you never expected. And that sort of says to the audience, 'look at all the great places we can go.'

Georgaris noted that the finale would conclude in an unexpected manner, positioning the characters in a scenario open with possibilities.

"So if it feels like a completion for audiences, that's wonderful. It is a completion of part of the journey, but I think for us, it serves as the launch for the rest of the journey."

Quantum Leap Ends on a Note of Gratitude and Regret from Cast

Quantum Leap's cast and fans were disappointed over the series cancelation at NBC. The news has prompted heartfelt reactions from the cast, particularly from Raymond Lee and Caitlin Bassett, who both turned to social media to express their gratitude and regrets to their viewers.

Raymond Lee shared a touching tribute on his Instagram, acknowledging the support from the show’s followers:

"Just wanted to say a thank you to our QL fans and those who’ve tuned in. Your support was felt and always warmly received. You all have made it the ride of a lifetime. We’re so proud of the stories we got to tell."

Similarly, Caitlin Bassett reflected on her experience, expressing a mixture of sorrow and gratitude:

“So sorry to say… farewell leapers. Thank you so much for every moment of this amazing journey. And thank you [NBC] and [Universal TV] for the ride of a lifetime. As the wonderful QL super-fan Matt Dale said – 'be excellent to each other.'”

The actors’ posts conveyed their personal connections to the series but pointed out the impact of Quantum Leap on its audience, who found joy and inspiration in its unique story.