It's finally happened: after days, maybe even weeks, of binge-watching, you're staring at the Netflix screen with no "next episode in 12 seconds" countdown. There's only a box for a new show, one you haven't been obsessively watching, and you're a little annoyed that Netflix thinks it can replace your show, your one true show, so simply. You've known this was coming for a while, noticed that Season Five was the last one, nervously watched as you ticked down the episodes, but you thought you could outwit time. You thought these limitations were for other people. But alas, all good shows must end. And you, my friend, are in the grips of Post-Show Depression.
Stage One: Denial
It can't be over. You cling desperately to what few vestiges you have left: interview videos on YouTube, blooper reels also on YouTube. You read the books written by the actors, who frequently talk about their time on the show. You live vicariously through their past. You re-watch the earlier episodes or the ones you fell asleep while watching. Nothing quite fills the void: it lacks novelty, lacks the spark that came to life before.
Stage Two: Anger
Why did that company cancel this TV show? Why did the producers decide to "shake it up" during the last season, which changed the entire flavor of the show and of course get it cancelled? Why don't more people watch this show and why aren't more people equally outraged by its ending? Why do the Kardashians get unlimited air time while true art suffers? You are angry that nothing else tells as good of a story as your show. You are doubly angry when the series finale was terrible. You deserved better!
Stage Three: Bargaining
Are you there, Netflix? It's me, a TV show watcher. Maybe if you pay your Netflix bill on time this month, they'll pick up your show like they did with Arrested Development. Maybe they'll create a joyous renaissance of television. If you just didn't watch any more movies from illegal streaming sites, Netflix will magically offer new episodes.
Stage Four: Depression
That's it. It's over. No getting around it. Nothing fills the void and the void is all you are. It encompasses everything you know: the books you bought when you were still in denial, the fan forum you've been neglecting, the friends who try to get you interested in other things. Everything is meaningless. The world has lost its atmosphere and you are left trying to breathe.
Stage Five: Acceptance
It is only a TV show, after all. You move on. Learn to watch other shows. Take showers. See your friends. Maybe go back to work. After all, your show will always be there, just waiting to be replayed. It will never be as new as it once was, but it will always be loved.
