Matt Bomer as Neal Caffrey in 'White Collar' (Image: USA Network)

Why Did ‘White Collar’ End After Season 6? Was The Show Canceled?

Originally posted on FirstCuriosity | By Sarah Kandari | Last updated Aug 23, 2024 5:43 PM ET

‘White Collar‘ was one of the most-watched television series on the American network in 2013. Therefore, fans were rightfully disappointed when the show was canceled after six seasons. In 2014, before the sixth season was released, it was announced that it would be the final season for characters Neal Caffrey, a con artist played by Matt Bomer, and FBI officer Peter Burke, portrayed by Tim DeKay. The finale of ‘White Collar’ was rated as one of the most satisfying show endings.

The plot revolved around a deal cut between Burke and Caffrey, where the latter promised to get all the white-collar criminals for Burke, in exchange for not arresting Neal. The idea was original, engaging, and well-received with 4.46 million viewers by season five. Therefore, it is natural to wonder why the show was pulled off. Now that a reboot is happening, let’s see why we had to bid the show goodbye in the first place.

Why ‘White Collar’ Was Canceled

White Collar (Image: USA Network)

Unfortunately, ‘White Collar’ was shut down due to a shift in USA Network programming. Around 2011, the American Network was switching its scripting to novel and bolder productions. New drama series like, ‘Suits‘ and ‘Royal Pains’, were gaining viewership. More beloved series like ‘Psych’, ‘Necessary Roughness’, and ‘Burn Notice’, were also collateral damage to this transition.

Despite being filmed on location provided the show with genuine shots, it made the production cost expensive. Shows like ‘Suits’ although set in New York, were filmed in Toronto. ‘White Collar’ had announced before the release of its sixth season that it would be the show’s last. Although fans were disappointed, its finale was described as most fitting for the show.

About The ‘White Collar’ Reboot

Matt Bomer in ‘White Collar’ (Image: USA Network)

In season six, Caffrey realized that despite his good behavior and his tremendous help on cases, the FBI would not let him walk away. Therefore, he faked his death in the finale, and the showed him living comfortably living in Paris. Eventually, his de facto partner, Burke, recognized that Caffrey had escaped. Since the show ended there have been rumors of a spin-off or a reboot.

Recently, a reboot for ‘White Collar’ was confirmed. Matt Bomer and Tim DeKay will reprise their roles as Neil Caffrey and Peter Burke. The reboot will pay tribute to casts of the show that have passed away – Willie Garson and Diahann Carroll. Meanwhile, Matt teased ‘White Collar’ fans that the reboot’s script is “fantastic”.

This article first appeared on FirstCuriosity and was syndicated with permission.

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