Ratings Bubble Report: Will Marvel’s ‘Agents of SHIELD’ survive until season 5?

Is the end of the road near for Marvel’s “Agents of SHIELD“? We’re not sure that any other series out there has faced as fascinating a journey. The show was ironically probably the worst when the ratings were the best; not, it’s firing on all cylinders, and it’s staring cancellation in the face.

Luckily, we do also think that this is a show with a little bit of hope for the future, with there being a single reason for that: The devotion of the fans, who continue to support and believe in the series like no other. It may need that support if it has any hope of getting a season 5.

Let’s get the bad news out of the way – The ratings at the moment are far from fantastic. The last two episodes of the show drew a 0.6 rating in the 18-49 demographic, which puts “SHIELD” on the lower end of what any other superhero shows are doing on network TV. Are there extenuating circumstances? Sure, given that this show is airing on the Tuesday night death slot that’s been occupied by many other quick-to-be-canceled shows, including “Wicked City,” “Lucky 7,” and “Forever” (which never should’ve been axed by ABC when it was). There isn’t a great lead-in for the show, but that’s also been one of ABC’s problems over the years.

Now, let’s get hopeful – This is a show that the network clearly has some affection for, given their desire for the most part to continue to bring the show back even when some of the ratings lead to concern. There’s a great collaboration going on with Marvel, and in the event the show does conclude, you get the feeling that the network would want to give it a proper ending. there’s been no announcement about that just yet.

“SHIELD” ultimately, despite the lower ratings, gives its network something that they don’t otherwise have: A science fiction / action series that appeals to largely male viewers, and comes from an established Marvel property. If they value this, there’s a reason to keep it. Where else are they going to get it?

This brings us to the upcoming adaptation of “The Inhumans” — which could be the answer to what we just mentioned in the paragraph above. One of the other big question marks that is out there is whether or not this show coming means that “SHIELD” is on the way out, and we don’t necessarily see it that way. You could air them both where the new series leads into “SHIELD” and gives it more love. Or, you can shorten the season of “SHIELD” and air it in the spring after “Inhumans” airs in the fall. Who knows? Maybe these shows could compliment and help each other.

For now, much of this is all speculation, but we advise you that if you still love watching Coulson and company, you need to be doing it live! This is a show that, despite whatever it may draw on Netflix or other countries, is in clear danger. Every viewer matters, and make sure your voice is heard on social media.

Do you think that “Agents of SHIELD” should be renewed for a season 5? Share in the comments, and head over here to get some further news when it comes to the show. (Photo: ABC.)