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Damon Wayans on Poppa's House Cancellation: Walking Away With Gratitude - Variety

The article from Variety, published on October 10, 2025, titled "Damon Wayans on 'Poppa's House' Cancellation: 'I'm Walking Away With Gratitude'," provides an in-depth look into the cancellation of the sitcom "Poppa's House" and Damon Wayans' reflections on his experience with the show. The article, penned by Michael Schneider, delves into the reasons behind the cancellation, Wayans' emotional response, and his future plans in the entertainment industry.

"Poppa's House" was a sitcom that aired on CBS, starring Damon Wayans as a retired radio host navigating life with his adult children and a new romantic interest. The show, which also starred Damon Wayans Jr., Essence Atkins, and Tetona Jackson, was initially well-received but struggled to maintain its audience over time. The cancellation came after two seasons, with the final episode airing on September 25, 2025.

In the article, Damon Wayans expresses a sense of gratitude and acceptance regarding the show's cancellation. He emphasizes that he is not bitter about the decision and appreciates the opportunity to have worked on the project. Wayans states, "I'm walking away with gratitude. We had a good run, and I'm thankful for the experience and the people I worked with." This sentiment is echoed throughout the article, as Wayans reflects on the highs and lows of the show's run.

The article also explores the reasons behind the cancellation. According to CBS executives, "Poppa's House" faced stiff competition in its time slot and struggled to attract a consistent audience. The network had hoped that the show would build on the success of other family-oriented sitcoms but found that it did not resonate with viewers in the same way. Despite efforts to revamp the show's format and introduce new characters, the ratings continued to decline, ultimately leading to the decision to cancel.

Wayans acknowledges these challenges but remains optimistic about the future. He credits the show's writers and cast for their dedication and creativity, noting that they worked tirelessly to improve the show. He also praises CBS for giving the show a chance and allowing him to explore new creative avenues. "We tried everything we could to make it work," Wayans says. "Sometimes, things just don't pan out the way you hope, but that's part of the business."

The article also touches on the personal impact of the show's cancellation on Wayans. He admits that it was difficult to see the show end but emphasizes that he is proud of the work they did. Wayans shares anecdotes about the camaraderie on set and the joy of working with his son, Damon Wayans Jr., who played his son on the show. He also highlights the importance of family and how the show allowed him to explore themes of fatherhood and generational differences.

In addition to reflecting on "Poppa's House," the article delves into Wayans' future plans. He expresses a desire to continue working in the entertainment industry, albeit in different capacities. Wayans mentions that he is interested in producing and developing new projects, both for television and film. He also hints at the possibility of returning to stand-up comedy, a medium that he has not explored in several years. "I'm excited about what's next," Wayans says. "There are so many opportunities out there, and I'm ready to take on new challenges."

The article also includes insights from other cast members and industry professionals. Essence Atkins, who played Wayans' love interest on the show, expresses her gratitude for the experience and her admiration for Wayans' leadership. She notes that working on "Poppa's House" was a highlight of her career and that she is excited to see what Wayans does next. Damon Wayans Jr. also shares his thoughts, emphasizing the importance of family and the joy of working with his father. He praises Wayans' dedication to the craft and his ability to bring humor and heart to every project.

Industry experts weigh in on the cancellation, offering their perspectives on the challenges faced by "Poppa's House" and the broader trends in television. They note that the sitcom genre has become increasingly competitive, with networks and streaming platforms vying for viewers' attention. They also discuss the importance of finding the right audience and the impact of scheduling and marketing on a show's success.

The article concludes with a reflection on the legacy of "Poppa's House" and Damon Wayans' contributions to the entertainment industry. It highlights his long and successful career, from his early days on "In Living Color" to his more recent work on "My Wife and Kids" and "Lethal Weapon." The article emphasizes that, despite the cancellation of "Poppa's House," Wayans remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, known for his talent, humor, and dedication to his craft.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive look at the cancellation of "Poppa's House" and Damon Wayans' response to the news. It offers insights into the challenges faced by the show, the personal impact on Wayans and the cast, and the future plans of one of Hollywood's most enduring talents. Through interviews, anecdotes, and expert analysis, the article paints a picture of a man who, despite setbacks, remains grateful and optimistic about what lies ahead.

Read the Full Variety Article at:
[ https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/damon-wayans-poppas-house-cancellation-walking-away-gratitude-1236375766/ ]