The CW Cancels Austin-Made ‘Walker’

The CW Cancels Austin-Made Show ‘Walker’ After Four Seasons

The much-anticipated news has finally arrived – the Austin-shot series ‘Walker,’ starring Jared Padalecki, will not see a fifth season on the screen. The CW officially announced the cancellation of the show, following the murmurs confirmed by Padalecki himself via Instagram.

A Farewell to Cordell

In an emotional Instagram post, Padalecki shared, “It is with a heavy heart that I share this news with you. Walker will not be airing on CW for a fifth season.” The news emerged as a significant blow to the actor’s fans and to the Austin film and TV industry.

Walker and its Impression

‘Walker’ was a reimagination of the iconic ’90s series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ featuring Chuck Norris. The series served as Padalecki’s follow-up to his blockbuster 15-season run for the network on ‘Supernatural.’ The acclaimed actor returned to the screen as the titular Cordell Walker, a Texas Ranger managing life as a recently-widowed single father. The series saw an impactful debut in 2021, maintaining high ranks and ratings on the network, even launching a shortlived spinoff — ‘Walker: Independence.’

A Hit to Austin’s Film and TV Departement

Besides entertaining audiences worldwide, the show was instrumental in boosting the Austin economy. It employed numerous skilled craftspeople and actors and utilized Austin Studios during its extensive run. The news of the cancellation leaves Austin Studios with the challenge of finding new tenants, particularly as networks are leaning more toward cheaper, unscripted shows and shifting production overseas.

Setbacks on the Horizon

Despite consistent performance and significant ratings, rumors had been circulating that the show was in jeopardy. The industry speculated that cost issues and a shift from scripted shows to unscripted, reality-oriented programs would ultimately bring about its cancellation.

Facing Aftermath of Cancellation

In spite of these setbacks, including the pandemic, an unprecedented strike, and a change in network ownership, ‘Walker’ stood tall for four remarkable seasons. It established a loyal fanbase and sustained many Austin TV professionals. Reflecting on the journey, Padalecki writes, “It has been a unique honor to be a part of the cast and crew (and fandom!) that helped Walker tell the stories that we told. I will forever smile on the years I got to spend with the cast and crew and studio and network and fandom that made this all possible.”