5. Scrubs
Scrubs had a massive fanbase, so its cancellation after seven seasons disappointed a lot of people. The writers crafted an appropriate series finale…and then the show was promptly renewed for an eighth season. Zach Graff did not renew his contract, and he was replaced by Kerry Bishé. In the end, the changes were too much, and Scrubs’ ninth season was its last.
4. Spin City
Michael J. Fox was one of the heartthrobs of the 1980’s, appearing in Back to the Future franchise, as well as Family Ties. His return to the television following his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease came with Spin City, a highly acclaimed show about a news station set in New York City.
He eventually left to help raise funding for Parkinson’s research, and was replaced by Charlie Sheen, who didn’t have quite the same charm. Ratings and viewership dropped, and the show was cancelled.
3. House of Cards
House of Cards is intentionally dynamic, and the behind-the-scenes is no different. President Garrett Walker, who holds office during the first and second seasons, has Dani Englander on his arm as the first lady in season one. Inexplicably, she is replaced by Joanna Going for season two. Although many did not notice, the switch raised several eyebrows for the still-hot series.
2. Chips
One of the original “buddy cop” shows, Chips made stars of its two leads: Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox. While Estrada left the show briefly over a contract dispute, he eventually returned, only to see Wilcox leave to pursue “other creative projects.” Interestingly enough, future reality star and former olympic champion Bruce Jenner was cast in the show, but the appearance didn’t last long.
1. Game of Thrones
Daario Naharis is the commander of the Stonecrows from the continent of Essos on the hugely popular Game of Thrones. In real life, he is played by two actors: Ed Skrein who was replaced by Michiel Huisman.
Skrein’s ousting as Naharis was somewhat accepted by fans, but Skrein argues that the recasting was mostly political, and he would’ve loved to have stayed with the show for the long haul. This was not meant to be, and Michael Huisman, an accomplished actor in his own right, came on board to assume the role.
