The Neighborhood Encountered Challenges Before an Unexpected Conclusion
The Neighborhood encountered numerous hurdles before CBS concluded its run with season 8.
During an interview with Us Weekly at CBS Fest on Wednesday, May 7, co-stars Cedric the Entertainer and Max Greenfield shared their thoughts on their sitcom being renewed for its final season amidst various challenges behind the scenes.
“On this particular show, we had to navigate a series of adversities that extended beyond the typical TV show challenges,” Cedric the Entertainer, 61, reflected. “There were the [WGA and SAG-AFTRA] strikes and the pandemic. So many hurdles—we had to ask ourselves, ‘How do you maintain a show’s integrity? How do you keep the cast motivated?’”
Creative shifts were also part of the journey, with Cedric adding, “We had to shuffle executive producers and writers frequently. The most significant lesson I’ve learned is about maintaining focus and realizing that challenges often present opportunities for greater triumphs.”
He further expressed: “You must trust the process—sometimes it all looks like tragedy, but often the victory lies just beyond the struggle. If you can push through it, that’s what I’ve truly learned.”
Greenfield, 45, humorously noted that it took him “seven years to truly gain perspective” on his experience with The Neighborhood.
“Honestly, I’m not quite sure yet. We’re still very much in it,” he added. “We’re getting this final season. I went through a similar experience with New Girl where they gave us an unexpected last hurrah. I’m just eager to enjoy it and close the chapter on a high note.”
The Neighborhood, which debuted in 2018, centers on a white Midwestern family adapting after relocating to a mostly Black community in California. Alongside Cedric the Entertainer and Greenfield, the show features Tichina Arnold, Beth Behrs, Sheaun McKinney, and Marcel Spears.
This year, CBS confirmed that The Neighborhood has been renewed for its eighth and final season. Greenfield later discussed his intention to focus on the positives in light of this news with Us.
“The reality is this will be our eighth and final season. When you look around, there are so few shows that reach eight seasons anymore; we might be among the last,” Greenfield shared with Us in April. “So, I’m genuinely not sad about it ending. I’m grateful for the eight seasons we were fortunate to have. We’ve faced so much together. This show has survived a pandemic and numerous writer and actor strikes—a true roller coaster.”
Greenfield teased that The Neighborhood is concluding on a high note.
“Reaching this milestone and being in our current position feels like an incredible gift,” he continued. “And the chance to say goodbye on our own terms is wonderful. I’m really looking forward to having a fun final season where everyone knows what’s coming for the show, and to enjoy the time with those I’ve been fortunate to work with over the last seven-plus years.”
CBS initially ordered a potential spinoff of The Neighborhood, featuring Justin Long, Kara Royster, and Hunter King. However, it has since been canceled following the airing of the backdoor pilot earlier this month.
The cast of The Neighborhood is now dedicated to crafting a satisfying conclusion for their fans.
“We are keen on creating something that feels conclusive for our audience—those who love the show and welcome us into their homes each week,” Greenfield emphasized on Wednesday. “We aim to avoid a situation like the ending of Game of Thrones, where viewers felt let down. The biggest focus right now is ensuring we have a good finale that resonates positively with our audience.”
The Neighborhood returns to CBS this fall and is currently available for streaming on Paramount+.
