Must-Read Fan Fictions for Cancelled TV Shows

Television shows often become cultural phenomena, creating deep connections with their audiences. When these beloved series are abruptly cancelled, fans are left with unresolved storylines and an insatiable desire for more. Enter fan fiction: a creative outlet where passionate fans continue the stories, explore alternate universes, and provide closure. This article dives into the best fan fiction that has carried on cancelled shows, keeping their legacies alive.

1. Firefly

Joss Whedon's Firefly has arguably one of the most dedicated fan bases in television history. Despite its brief run, the space western left an indelible mark, prompting a wealth of fan fiction to explore the vast 'verse and its colorful characters.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "The Last Train from Perdition" by SaberShadowKat: This story captures the essence of the show's gritty charm and complex character dynamics. It follows the crew of Serenity as they navigate new challenges, maintaining the show's unique blend of humor, action, and heart.
• "Finding Serenity" by Jane0904: This fic delves into the backstories of the main characters, providing a rich tapestry of their lives before joining the Serenity crew. It weaves intricate tales that add depth to the already beloved ensemble.

2. Pushing Daisies

Bryan Fuller's Pushing Daisies was a whimsical, visually stunning series cut short far too soon. Its charming premise of a pie-maker who can bring the dead back to life, only to lose them again if he touches them a second time, lent itself well to imaginative fan fiction.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Pie and Prejudice" by Rielle: This delightful story continues the adventures of Ned, Chuck, Emerson, and Olive, blending the show's quirky humor with heartfelt moments. The fic successfully captures the show's fairy-tale-like quality and the bittersweet romance between Ned and Chuck.
• "Life and Pies" by Mimsical: In this fic, the Pie Hole gang faces new mysteries and challenges. The author expands the show's universe, introducing new characters while staying true to the whimsical and colorful world of Pushing Daisies.

3. Jericho

Jericho presented a gripping post-apocalyptic narrative that was abruptly halted, leaving fans clamoring for answers. Fan fiction became a haven for those seeking to explore the aftermath of the show's intense cliffhangers.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Jericho: Aftermath" by LadyShelly: This fic picks up right where the series left off, diving deep into the political intrigue and survival struggles of the residents of Jericho. The author meticulously reconstructs the tension and suspense that made the show so captivating.
• "Jericho Reborn" by SF_Phoenix: Exploring the rebuilding efforts of the town and its people, this story adds layers of complexity to the original plot. The fic delves into character development and introduces new threats, maintaining the show's atmosphere of uncertainty and hope.

4. Freaks and Geeks

Judd Apatow's Freaks and Geeks is a cult classic that resonated with audiences for its authentic portrayal of high school life in the 1980s. Its untimely cancellation left fans yearning for more of the hilarious and heartfelt coming-of-age stories.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "The Next Chapter" by CaseyG: This story continues the journeys of the Weir siblings and their friends. It captures the spirit of the show, blending humor and poignant moments as the characters navigate new challenges and relationships.
• "Freaks Forever" by Hummingbird: Set a few years after the series finale, this fic explores the characters' lives post-high school. The author masterfully retains the show's nostalgic charm while exploring the growth and changes in the characters' lives.

5. The Sarah Connor Chronicles

Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles offered a fresh take on the Terminator franchise, focusing on Sarah and John Connor's fight against Skynet. Despite its cancellation, fans have continued the story through compelling fan fiction.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Continuum" by Skynet_exe: This fic picks up immediately after the series finale, delving into the complexities of time travel and the ongoing battle against Skynet. The author skillfully weaves intricate plotlines, keeping the tension and excitement high.
• "Future Imperfect" by ResistanceLeader: This story explores alternate timelines and the potential futures of the characters. It's a thought-provoking and action-packed continuation that stays true to the show's themes of destiny and resistance.

6. Carnivàle

HBO's Carnivàle was a dark and mysterious series that was cancelled before its time, leaving many questions unanswered. Its rich mythology and complex characters inspired a devoted fan base to fill in the gaps through fan fiction.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "The Road Ahead" by DarkCarnival: This story explores the fates of Ben Hawkins and Brother Justin, diving deeper into the show's mythos. The author captures the eerie and atmospheric tone of the series, providing a satisfying continuation for fans.
• "Carnival of Souls" by MysticSeer: Set in the aftermath of the series finale, this fic delves into the consequences of the final battle and the ongoing struggle between good and evil. The story is rich with symbolism and character development, staying true to the show's essence.

7. Deadwood

Deadwood, an HBO series known for its gritty portrayal of the American West, left fans wanting more after its abrupt cancellation. Fan fiction has kept the spirit of the frontier alive, exploring the lives of its complex characters.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Deadwood: Resurrection" by BlackHillsScribe: This fic continues the saga of Al Swearengen, Seth Bullock, and the rest of Deadwood's residents. The author meticulously captures the show's raw dialogue and intricate character dynamics, providing a seamless extension of the story.
• "Legacy of Deadwood" by WesternFan: Set a few years after the series finale, this story explores the changing dynamics of the town and its inhabitants. The fic is rich with historical detail and character-driven plots, maintaining the show's authenticity.

8. Veronica Mars

Veronica Mars blended mystery, drama, and teen angst, creating a devoted following that was devastated by its cancellation. Fan fiction has allowed fans to continue solving mysteries with the show's titular detective.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Mars Investigations: The Next Case" by DetectiveFan: This story follows Veronica as she navigates new mysteries in Neptune. The author captures the show's sharp wit and intricate plotting, providing fans with more of the investigative drama they love.
• "Veronica Mars: Reborn" by MarsReturns: Set years after the series finale, this fic explores Veronica's life as an adult detective. It delves into mature themes and complex cases, maintaining the show's balance of personal and professional challenges.

9. Sense8

The Wachowskis' Sense8 was a groundbreaking series that connected fans across the globe. Its cancellation left a void, but fan fiction has allowed the sensates' stories to continue, exploring their interconnected lives.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Cluster Unbroken" by Sense8Fan: This fic picks up after the series finale, delving into the lives of the sensates as they face new challenges and deepen their bonds. The author skillfully captures the show's themes of connection and diversity.
• "Sensate Awakening" by WachowskiDevotee: This story explores the origins of the sensates and introduces new characters. It's a rich, immersive continuation that expands on the show's mythology and emotional depth.

10. Stargate Universe

Stargate Universe offered a darker, more serialized take on the Stargate franchise. Its abrupt cancellation left many storylines unresolved, prompting fans to create their own continuations.

Notable Fan Fiction:

• "Destiny's Journey" by GateTraveller: This fic continues the voyage of the Destiny, exploring new galaxies and threats. The author maintains the show's tone of exploration and survival, providing a satisfying continuation for fans.
• "Universe Reborn" by SciFiWriter: This story delves into the personal struggles and triumphs of the crew, capturing the essence of the show's character-driven drama. It's a thoughtful and engaging continuation that honors the series' legacy.

Conclusion

Fan fiction has played a crucial role in keeping the spirit of cancelled shows alive. These fan-created works not only provide closure for unresolved storylines but also expand the universes of beloved series, allowing fans to continue their journeys with cherished characters. Whether it's the gritty frontier of Deadwood, the whimsical world of Pushing Daisies, or the post-apocalyptic struggles of Jericho, fan fiction offers a haven for those who refuse to let their favorite shows fade into obscurity.

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