In a decision nobody saw coming, CBS has canceled both Mom and NCIS: New Orleans. When will the series finales air?

If you’d have asked us last week if either Mom or NCIS: New Orleans would be canceled this season, we’d have said no. That was especially the case for Mom. However, both shows were unceremoniously canceled by CBS this week.

The news came just after early renewals were given to both The Neighborhood and Bob Hearts Abishola.

Mom’s cancellation makes so little sense

While Anna Faris did leave Mom after seven seasons, the show hasn’t suffered. Most of them do when the lead star exits, but Allison Janney has certainly managed to hold her own. The supporting cast has also stepped up.

We’ve had some excellent storylines, and the writing is still funny. On top of that, the series is doing well in the live ratings. While it’s dipped from the previous season (almost everything has!), it continues to be a steady performer for the network.

It is still the eighth strongest show on the network overall in the demo. It’s the 10^th strongest show in terms of the audience. When it just comes to looking at comedies, it’s in fourth place in both metrics behind the two previously mentioned comedies that were renewed and Young Sheldon.

And yes, this is a CBS decision and not a show decision. The cast was also blindsided with this news that makes so little sense.

NCIS: New Orleans is a little less surprising but still sad

If we’re honest, the cancellation of NCIS: New Orleans is a little less surprising than Mom. However, out of all the shows on the network, it is still one of the most shocking decisions.

The live ratings aren’t great. It is one of the lowest performing shows on the network. However, it is a staple for Sunday nights, with viewers still routinely tuning in during football season. It’s also a strong performer in syndication and internationally.

There is a chance that this cancellation is linked to news that a fourth NCIS spin-off is in the works. Two of the New Orleans showrunners are potentially moving over to NCIS: Hawaii. Could this mean some NOLA characters could make the move too?

When will the series finales be?

So, how long will the two shows remain on the air? The series finale dates are currently set, although nothing is in stone just yet. Schedules may need to change due to filming circumstances right now.

The plan at the moment is to say goodbye to Mom on May 6 and to NCIS: New Orleans on May 16.

MORE: Is Judd Lormand really leaving SEAL Team?

What do you think about the shocking decisions? Which show do you hope CBS saves? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Mom airs Thursdays at 9/8c and NCIS: New Orleans airs Sundays at 10/9c on CBS.