CBS is no longer trusting their Instinct and have decided to cancel the show after its sophomore season. Instinct was based off of a novel of the same name by James Patterson and Howard Roughan that follows a former CIA operative that returns to the NYPD to help catch a serial killer. Alan Cumming (The Good Wife) played Dr. Dylan Reinhart, the former CIA operative. Cumming co-starred with Bojana Novakovic (Shameless), who plays NYPD detective Lizzie Needham. Instinct’s Reinhart is the first openly gay lead character on a broadcast drama series.
CBS Television Studios produces Instinct. Cummings and Patterson executive produce with Michael Rauch (Royal Pains), Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer), Alex Kurtzman (Sleepy Hollow), Heather Kadin (Secret Hideout), Bill Robinson (Zoo) and Leopoldo Gout (Molly’s Game).
CBS postponed making a renewal or cancellation decision in May, but on Saturday the executive producer/showrunner Rauch announced the cancellation news on Twitter. Rauch said, “I’m very sad to relay the news that @instinctcbs won’t be renewed for a 3rd season. Thanks to our incredible crew, cast, writers, producers & all who helped make our show, with respect, talent & kindness. And a giant thank you to our diehard fans for your love, loyalty & excellent taste (is it too soon to ask for a reboot?).”
The stars of the show also posted their reactions to the news. Novakovic appeared angered over the cancellation with a message of frustration. Meanwhile, Cumming posted a heartfelt message with a description of how he got involved in the project and behind the scenes photographs.
Instinct will air two episodes this Sunday and then premiere its series finale on Sunday, August 25.