The television series Journeyman, which aired on NBC in 2007, has emerged as a noteworthy example of a sci-fi show that was canceled after just one season, despite its unique take on time travel. The series followed journalist Dan Vasser, portrayed by Kevin McKidd, whose seemingly perfect life spirals into chaos when he discovers he can travel through time. Each jump transports him to critical moments in history where he must intervene to save others, ultimately altering the course of their lives for the better.
What sets Journeyman apart from other time travel narratives is its focus on the emotional and tragic repercussions of such abilities. Unlike many time travelers in popular media, Dan lacks control over his journeys, leading to misunderstandings and strained relationships with his wife, Katie, and brother, Jack. Katie suspects infidelity, while Jack fears that Dan has reverted to gambling. The narrative deepens with the introduction of Dan’s former fiancée, Livia, believed to be dead but who also possesses the ability to time travel. Their encounters add a layer of poignancy to the story, showcasing the toll that time travel can take on personal relationships.
Cancellation and Legacy of ‘Journeyman’
Despite a strong promotional effort, including a pairing with the hit series Heroes, Journeyman struggled to maintain viewer interest and was ultimately canceled after one season due to declining ratings. Fans rallied to save the show, launching a campaign that involved sending boxes of Rice-a-Roni—a nod to Dan’s San Francisco roots—echoing previous campaigns for other series like Jericho.
In interviews, series creator Kevin Falls outlined potential story arcs that would have resolved Livia’s narrative and connected the various individuals Dan aimed to save. The cast, including McKidd and Moon Bloodgood, moved on to other successful projects, with McKidd achieving fame on Grey’s Anatomy and Bloodgood starring in notable sci-fi productions such as Terminator Salvation and Falling Skies.
The show’s cancellation left a void in the sci-fi genre, as its exploration of the human experience intertwined with time travel offered a rich narrative potential that remains underappreciated. The success of contemporary time travel series like Outlander suggests that Journeyman could have similarly found its audience if given the chance to develop further.
As of now, Journeyman is not available on DVD or any major streaming platforms, leaving fans hopeful for a revival. Its unique narrative and character depth mark it as an underrated gem in the science fiction landscape, meriting a second look from viewers and networks alike.
