Part 4/7:
Despite this strong start, by its fourth season, the show experienced a notable decline in audience size, averaging around 6 million viewers. Just when it seemed like the show would continue to explore Earl's journey toward redemption, it all came crashing down.
Garcia had envisioned a cliffhanger ending for the fourth season, with Earl facing significant setbacks just as he was on the brink of closure. Unfortunately, NBC's unexpected cancellation meant that the show's loyal fans were left hanging—no resolution, no answers, just an abrupt end. It turned out that a dispute over finances between NBC and the studio producing the show ultimately led to its demise, leaving many questions unanswered.