As a person who has worked in television longer than TTRPGs, I just want to say that TV deals are way more complicated than they appear. Reacting to the deal with happiness, frustration, anger, joy, or any other emotion is valid. I don't want to invalidate anything, just explain.
I want to debunk the idea that Critical Role could have gone to any network with their series. Even with a huge Kickstarter backing, this is unlikely. Disclaimer: I do not know anything that went on with CR specifically.
Many networks could be interested in a CR series, provided they get creative control and rights, give minimal resources, and own distribution of all episodes. If CR asked to give all their backers season 1, that was an unconventional demand that likely turned many places off.
If CR wanted to maintain their creative independence, retain a myriad of different IP rights, have budgets of a specific size for a 2nd season, and use specific creative and production talents, those were all other hurdles.
A huge number of amazing TV projects fall through all the time because the network and the production company making the show cannot agree on any number of items. It was not as simple as CR knocking on a network's door and having all their asks met.
I just wanted to shed a little light on the insane world of entertainment. There may have been other ways for CR to go, but they saw this as the best route. We may likely know why in the coming days and years.
Again all feelings are valid, and even with these details in mind you might say, "I still wish they hadn't gone this direction." I totally understand. You may also say, "Wow! I am so happy this show will reach way more people and get season 2 now." I understand that as well.
One other thing to consider: There may not have been many networks willing to play ball since CR already has a huge following on a platform owned by another network. Amazon owns Twitch. Not many networks want to work with an IP that exists on a competitor's stage.
