MacGyver season 4: All of the details we know so far
Why isn’t it on the fall schedule? – We know that this is the biggest question that a lot of people out there have, and the simplest answer is “it’s CBS’ decision.” It’s not something that the cast, crew, or producers necessarily want. The network wanted to try something different in the Friday lineup this fall with Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum PI airing one right after the next.
How many episodes will season 4 be? – In a post on Twitter, executive producer Peter M. Lenkov confirmed that the (current) plan is for there to be a minimum of thirteen episodes. Could this change? It’s possible. Much of it will likely depend on the performance of CBS’ fall shows and whether or not there’s going to be more room in the schedule for a couple more down the line.
When could it premiere? – Most likely, at some point between winter and spring 2020. The earlier it premieres, the more likely it is that there will be more episodes. We mentioned this earlier this week, but The Blacklist showed this year that you can premiere at midseason and still air a sizable amount of episodes — also, The Blacklist ended up being renewed for another season. Don’t take the premiere date as some sort of sign that the show is about to be canceled.
When will it start filming? – Lenkov notes that it will start production in July, roughly around when past seasons have. The reasoning for that is simple: In the event more episodes are ordered, they can be added on to the filming window already established. It’s the start time that gives the show the most flexibility.
The biggest reason for optimism – Just think in terms of syndication. Typically, networks want to see their shows make it to around 88 episodes — at that point, it becomes easier to sell them to other broadcast/cable networks. MacGyver will need to get either more season 4 episodes, or a season 5, in order to get to that point. We do think that CBS wants that.
Beyond just that, also consider this — CBS has shown a real knack as of late for ensuring that some of their shows get proper endings — the ones in which they truly deserve. Think in terms of Madam Secretary and Criminal Minds, two other series that were given final-season orders announced in advance. They haven’t done that with MacGyver and we like to think this means that they’re interested in bringing it back.
Sure, the wait for season 4 is going to be a long one, but we know that it’ll be worth it. Lenkov (alongside new co-showrunner Terry Matalas) will do everything that they can to make the most of however many episodes that they have.
For some more news all about CBS and its big fall schedule…
Head over to the link here, as you’re going to have a chance to see all of the premiere dates and some other analysis. Also, check out our full interview here with Peter all about the Hawaii Five-0 finale.
What do you want to see when it comes to MacGyver season 4? Be sure to share right now in the comments. (Photo: CBS.)