Bob Hearts Abishola has been a staple on CBS since its debut in 2019, garnering steady ratings and a loyal audience. However, despite weathering the challenges of a pandemic and industry strikes, the beloved sitcom is bidding farewell.
Deadline first broke the news in November 2023 that the fifth season of Bob Hearts Abishola would be its last. As the season premiered in February, fans were left to anticipate the impending conclusion, with the final episode set to air in May. Despite its impending end, the show remains highly regarded among audiences as one of the network’s most cherished sitcoms.
The series follows the journey of Bob, a businessman in the compression socks industry, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a mild heart attack and meets Abishola, his nurse, sparking a romance that blossoms across the seasons. Through their relationship, the show explores themes of love, family, and the immigrant experience, particularly focusing on Nigerian culture and immigrant communities in the United States.
CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach praised the series for its portrayal of immigrant families and Nigerian culture, noting its heartfelt humor and emotional resonance. However, despite its critical acclaim and dedicated fan base, the decision to cancel Bob Hearts Abishola likely boiled down to financial considerations. Following the industry strikes, the network opted to trim costs by downgrading several cast members to recurring roles, a move aimed at securing a renewal. Despite modest ratings fluctuations, it was the broader impact of the strikes that prompted CBS to reassess its programming lineup.
In line with a shift towards long-term planning, CBS acknowledged the need to refresh its schedule periodically, leading to the conclusion of several long-standing shows, including Bob Hearts Abishola. Reisenbach emphasized the network’s commitment to providing a satisfying conclusion for fans, allowing the show’s creators to craft a finale that honors the characters and their journey.
As the final episodes of Bob Hearts Abishola air on Monday nights, fans can tune in to witness the culmination of Bob and Abishola’s story. Additionally, previous seasons are available for streaming on various platforms, offering viewers the chance to revisit the show’s endearing moments before bidding farewell to this beloved sitcom.
