The key is ending in time, I think. All of these shows wrapped up their story before they got dull, and didn’t drag it on for a few more seasons, waiting for the ratings to drop.
I very much agree, having a clear arch in mind helps, which is how Breaking Bad felt mostly. A show that comes to mind which did exactly what you said was Supernatural. There was a logical conclusion arch wise in season 4 or 5 but it was popular so they were pressured to keep it going, and now… meh.
The key is ending in time, I think. All of these shows wrapped up their story before they got dull, and didn’t drag it on for a few more seasons, waiting for the ratings to drop.
I very much agree, having a clear arch in mind helps, which is how Breaking Bad felt mostly. A show that comes to mind which did exactly what you said was Supernatural. There was a logical conclusion arch wise in season 4 or 5 but it was popular so they were pressured to keep it going, and now… meh.