Angel is the perfect example of a programme cancelled at its creative and critical height. In its fifth season, the programme underwent several creative boosts, with Spike joining the cast of characters, the demon Illyria taking over the body of another regular, and Angel being placed in charge of a law office belonging to arch-villains Wolfram & Hart. The popular show lasted from 1999 to 2004 and would probably have returned for a sixth season if only Joss Whedon hadn't pressed The WB for an early decision on renewal. Unable to commit so early, the network instead chose to cancel the ratings-grabbing programme, much to Whedon's astonishment. Fans everywhere were equally aghast. Comics, so often the last haven for continuing science fiction shows, once again provided the means for showing what happened next. Thankfully.