Why ‘The Equalizer’s’ Sudden End Is Being Hailed As One of the Best TV Finales Ever

The Equalizer has concluded its journey with a series finale that left viewers both heartbroken and satisfied after CBS unexpectedly canceled the show. After five seasons, the show, which had been gearing up for a sixth and reportedly final season, was abruptly halted, making its season five finale on May 5 the last episode ever. While fans were devastated by the sudden end, many agreed that the finale was perfectly crafted, wrapping up loose ends in a way that offered closure for the series.

The Equalizer, a reboot of the 1980s show of the same name, starred Queen Latifah as Robyn McCall, a former CIA operative turned vigilante who uses her unique skills to help those in need. Over the course of the series, Robyn’s journey as a single mother with a secret past captured the hearts of viewers. The show’s sudden cancellation left fans shocked and disappointed, but the final episode offered a silver lining.

Spoiler Alert: The following contains details about the season finale.

In the final moments of the show, Robyn’s longtime friend and NYPD detective, Dante (Tory Kittles), proposes to her after she narrowly survives a life-threatening injury. The proposal scene, set just before Robyn is rushed into surgery, was a poignant moment for fans, culminating in a touching and heartfelt conclusion when Robyn, once she regained consciousness, joyfully accepts. The episode ended with a celebration of their engagement at Robyn’s home, a fitting end to the action-packed and emotionally charged series.

For many fans, this conclusion was a “perfect” way to end the show. “The Equalizer wrapped up loose ends and ended on a high note,” one viewer wrote on X/Twitter. Another fan echoed this sentiment, saying, “I could not have asked for a better series finale to The Equalizer.” Many viewers called the finale “beautiful,” while others remarked that although they were disappointed it was the series’ last episode, the ending was precisely how a show should conclude.

Queen Latifah herself expressed her gratitude and disbelief at the show’s cancellation. “The Equalizer blew past every dream we had for it, and having the opportunity to do this for five seasons honestly feels surreal,” she shared in a statement. The actress reflected on stepping into the role of Robyn, calling it “everything I hoped it would be” and thanked fans for their unwavering support. “You’ve been so loyal, so loud, and so ride-or-die,” she wrote, emphasizing how much it meant to her and the entire team. Latifah also assured fans that she would be back soon in a new project, teasing, “I’ll be back kicking ass in something new real soon. Can’t wait to share it with you.”

Despite the heartfelt closure, fans were outraged by the sudden cancellation, especially considering the show’s success. “CBS don’t know what they are doing, like The Equalizer was one of the most popular shows on the damn network,” one fan tweeted. Another expressed frustration, stating, “The Equalizer deserved better! This is bulls***!” Many others voiced their disappointment, noting how the show had become a favorite among mothers, with one fan humorously sharing, “Who gonna call my mama and tell her that CBS cancelled The Equalizer? I don’t think I have the heart to tell her. She is a DAY 1 viewer, never misses an episode.”

The Equalizer’s abrupt end has sparked a wave of sadness and disbelief, especially among loyal fans who followed Robyn’s story from start to finish. While the show’s cancellation marks the end of an era, Queen Latifah’s powerful portrayal of Robyn McCall will undoubtedly remain a beloved character for years to come. Fans may have lost The Equalizer, but they’ve gained a memorable finale that will stay with them.