Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on November 18, 2024, 10:10 PM

The beloved automotive series "Roadkill" has officially come to an end after 13 unforgettable seasons. Originally taking off on YouTube before moving to Discovery+, this show captured the hearts of car enthusiasts everywhere, showcasing the raw and exciting world of DIY car projects. Hosted by the dynamic duo Mike Finnegan, Steve Dulcich and David Freiburger, "Roadkill" has become a staple in gearhead culture. Now, as fans process this shocking cancellation, it’s time to reflect on what made the show so special and what it's legacy will be.

"Roadkill" started as a YouTube series and quickly gained a massive following. The show's blend of humor, relatable dilemmas, and a love for all things automotive made it a favorite. By transforming budget builds and creative car transformations into entertainment, it skyrocketed to popularity. Eventually, "Roadkill" found a home on the MotorTrend network, allowing it to reach an even wider audience. It became a prime example of how genuine passion can captivate viewers.

The impact of "Roadkill" on car culture is huge. It encouraged numerous fans to pick up wrenches and take on their own projects. The spirit of "fix it yourself" became a movement, inspiring countless people to explore their mechanical abilities. It also sparked a growth in car meetups and online forums where enthusiasts share their journeys.

News of the cancellation was met with tremendous disappointment. Social media platforms lit up with heartfelt messages from fans expressing their sadness. Many took to Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share their favorite episodes and moments from the show. The hashtag #RoadkillWillBeMissed quickly gained traction, underscoring the emotional connection fans felt towards Finnegan and Freiburger.

According to cohost Mike Finnegan. "I just learned that it's over," Mike wrote in a Nov 18 Reddit Post. "After the end of Season 13, which we just finished filming a few weeks ago, there will be no new episodes of RK filmed."

The essence of "Roadkill" came from its authenticity. Unlike many polished automotive shows, it captured the failures and successes of real-life car enthusiasts. Whether it was breaking down on the side of the road or celebrating a hard-earned victory, every moment felt genuine.

The 'RK' TV personality said the company that produced the car show, which originally premiered in 2012, has also reached the end of the road.

"The Motor Trend production company is shutting down," Mike revealed. 'No specific reason was given to me for its demise."  The show had an "excellent run," the 46-year-old who starred alongside David Freiburger on the series added, "I'm proud of what the team accomplished but this does seem to be the end of RK. I'm unsure of who owns the RK IP or who to ask why it ended."

"Roadkill" thrived on budget builds—the idea that anyone could dive into car restoration without breaking the bank. From salvaged parts to makeshift solutions, the hosts showcased clever ways to keep costs low while still having fun. This relatability drew viewers in, making it feel like they were part of the adventure.

Mike was a former Hot Rod Magazine editor who also hosts the YouTube series Finnegan's Garage, shared Roadkill's success came about "sort of by accident" after he and fellow Hot Rod editor David decided to film a road trip they took together.

Finnegan and Freiburger's chemistry are crucial element. Their banter, friendship, and shared passion for cars created a welcoming atmosphere. Viewers felt like they were hanging out with friends, which kept audiences coming back for more. Their unique personalities complemented each other, making even mundane tasks entertaining.

"We put the video on YouTube on the Hot Rod Magazine channel," Mike shared during a 2017 appearance on The Muscle Car Place Podcast. "There with some really great videos that were pre-Roadkill, and right around that time, our company had struck a deal with YouTube to produce a channel."

When the video quickly took off, the platform wanted more content from the duo. With the rise of streaming services and changing viewership habits, "Roadkill" faced intense competition. As audiences flock to on-demand content, traditional programming holds less appeal. MotorTrend might have had to realign its strategy to cater to evolving viewer preferences.

The production quality of "Roadkill" set it apart, but it also came with steep costs. High production values require significant investment, and maintaining a show at that level can strain budgets. As networks evaluate their financial commitments, "Roadkill" may have fallen victim to economic realities.

"Somebody said, 'OK, you guys, you have a show. Now, hurry up and figure that name for it, and do this every month,'" Mike recalled. "We just flew by the seat of our pants. We found whatever two or three days free we had from our magazine schedule, and then just took off on a road trip."

He added, "It was utterly insane."

MotorTrend is adapting to changing times, focusing on new programming that excites current audiences. The cancellation of "Roadkill" may simply reflect a shift in their content strategy. As networks pivot to meet viewer needs, long-standing shows sometimes face the ax.

"Roadkill" will be remembered for inspiring a new generation of DIY mechanics. Its approachable style allowed viewers to see car building as accessible, encouraging many to jump into projects they never thought possible.

The series played a major role in shaping the automotive YouTube community. Content creators have drawn inspiration from "Roadkill," replicating its style while adding their own flair. Many channels that now focus on cars owe a debt of gratitude to the trailblazing efforts of Finnegan and Freiburger.

Future car shows will inevitably be influenced by the magic of "Roadkill." Its blend of entertainment, education, and accessibility has set a high bar. Other programs will need to innovate to recreate that special charm that captivated millions.

Finnegan and Freiburger are unlikely to fade away quietly. Both are passionate about cars and have a wealth of ideas. Collaborations or new shows may be on the horizon, and fans eagerly await what they’ll create next.

With their established presence in the automotive community, Finnegan and Freiburger will continue to influence car enthusiasts. They’re more than hosts; they’re ambassadors of car culture, and their voices will remain relevant for years to come.

Fans can still connect with Finnegan and Freiburger through social media platforms and personal appearances. Their engagement with fans has always been a strong point, and opportunities for interaction will likely persist even after "Roadkill."

"Roadkill" may have come to an end, but its legacy will continue to resonate within the automotive community. The lessons, inspirations, and laughter it provided are invaluable. As we mourn the loss of this iconic show, let’s take time to celebrate the moments that made us laugh and the projects that inspired us.

The heart of "Roadkill" lies in its ability to connect with people. It transformed car culture, encouraging creativity and hands-on experiences. The spirit of adventure and experimentation will live on among fans and aspiring mechanics alike.

What are your favorite memories from "Roadkill"? Share them in the comments below. Let’s keep the spirit of this extraordinary show alive by celebrating the memories it created and the inspiration it fostered within the gearhead community!