ABC has officially removed Ryan Murphy’s medical drama, Doctor Odyssey, from its website, signaling the network’s decision to end the series after its initial season. The show, which aired its first and only season in 2024, starred Joshua Jackson as Dr. Max Bankman and was set on a luxury cruise ship where constant medical emergencies unfolded. Despite an original and bold premise, the series struggled to secure a strong foothold with viewers, and its return for the 2025-2026 season will not happen on ABC.
Doctor Odyssey initially drew moderate ratings and attracted a niche audience that appreciated its blend of procedural drama and personal storylines. The show stood out for its daring weekly themes and ensemble cast, including Phillipa Soo as Avery Morgan. However, despite these strengths, it did not achieve the level of success needed to secure continuation within ABC’s primetime schedule.
Earlier reports had suggested that Doctor Odyssey’s second season was on hold rather than canceled, with ABC expressing openness to renewal. The ultimate decision was left to Ryan Murphy, who is known for managing multiple projects across networks and streaming platforms. With this removal, the network appears to have stepped back from holding space for Doctor Odyssey’s return, signaling a formal conclusion to its run on ABC.
Possibility of Doctor Odyssey Returning in the Future
While Doctor Odyssey’s removal from ABC’s schedule indicates its cancellation on the network, there remains a chance, however slim, that the series could be revived elsewhere or continue in a different format. Given today’s entertainment landscape, where revivals and reboots are common, Ryan Murphy’s continued involvement would be essential for any revival or continuation. The show’s unresolved storylines and lingering mysteries, including the question of whether Max Bankman is trapped in purgatory during his COVID-19 struggle, provide fertile ground for additional seasons.
The challenge lies in finding a suitable platform and timeslot if the series were to return. ABC’s current lineup now features 9-1-1: Nashville, starring Chris O’Donnell, which has effectively replaced Doctor Odyssey’s primetime position and is expected to continue into the 2026-2027 television cycle. Should the network lack available scheduling space, streaming services under Disney’s umbrella could become an alternative home, offering the show a chance to conclude its narrative properly even if a long-term run is unlikely.
This shift would align with Ryan Murphy’s successful track record with streaming projects, despite his established presence on broadcast television with 9-1-1 and its spin-offs. Streaming could provide the creative freedom and flexibility necessary for Doctor Odyssey’s unique storytelling style.
The Impact of Doctor Odyssey’s Ending on ABC’s Lineup
Doctor Odyssey’s removal represents a notable change in ABC’s programming strategy, anchoring the network more firmly on established franchises and proven procedural dramas. This aligns with ABC and Disney’s broader focus on series that deliver consistent ratings and fit within their expanding portfolio of live-action shows.
For Ryan Murphy, who remains a prolific content creator, the end of Doctor Odyssey frees resources to concentrate on other active projects, including the ongoing success of 9-1-1 and its Nashville spinoff. While Doctor Odyssey may no longer sail the ABC waters, its unique premise and complex characters have left a lasting impression on its dedicated fan base, leaving open the possibility that it may yet find new life elsewhere in the evolving television landscape.
This development also reflects the high stakes involved in network television, where even high-profile creators face challenges in securing long-term renewal amid rising competition and shifting viewer habits.
Doctor Odyssey has been removed from ABC’s lineup of active scripted programming. It was there all the way up until this week. #DoctorOdyssey pic.twitter.com/vARXLvlLyz
— 9-1-1 NEWS (@911TVNEWS) February 22, 2026
