"Save Happy Endings" has been popping up as a hashtag since the underdog comedy debuted in 2011, but fans have been using it more frequently since ABC opted to shelve it for much the midseason.
And now that the network is promoting the series' move to Fridays, it's making the rather unprecedented move of admitting Happy Endings' bubble status in its own commercials.
STORY: 'Happy Endings' Writers Offer 14 Reasons to Watch
"You can save Happy Endings," says a particularly serious voice over, before plugging the comedy's new back-to-back block.
It's promising news for fans who might have thought ABC had given up on the ratings-challenged show completely. Then again, it might also imply an unrealistic expectation for viewers. Friday night isn't known for its scripted comedies or a high volume of the coveted adults 18-49. And Happy Endings has always seen much of its success from time-shifted audiences. Season to date, the show is averaging nearly a 50 percent boost in the key ratings demo after seven days of DVR usage.
Happy Endings returns Friday, March 29, at 8 p.m. on ABC.
