Big Sky's Short-Lived Run on ABC Ends After 3 Seasons

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The fictional crime drama 'Big Sky' premiered on ABC in 2020, capitalizing on the popularity of Montana and the ongoing obsession with crime stories. However, the show's portrayal of the state did not accurately reflect reality, leading to its quiet cancellation after just three seasons.

Why it matters

Big Sky's portrayal of Montana as a lush, swampy region rather than the rugged, mountainous landscape it is known for highlighted the disconnect between Hollywood's depiction of the state and its actual geography. This disconnect likely contributed to the show's lack of long-term success, despite the initial popularity of its crime drama premise.

The details

Big Sky followed two private investigators attempting to track down the person or people responsible for abducting and holding multiple women captive across Big Sky Country. While the premise had potential, it didn't exactly break new ground, and the title itself felt a little on the nose. The show's inaccurate portrayal of Montana's landscape, with scenes depicting places like Yankee Jim Canyon near Yellowstone National Park as being covered in thick, mossy trees straight out of a swamp, further distanced the show from the state's true identity.

• Big Sky premiered on ABC in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when many people were stuck at home.
• The series lasted just three seasons before being quietly cancelled by ABC.