I don't know if that's such a good idea since it might turn into people picking their favourite character. Personally, I would like to see the entire cast return, including David Orth despite my previous reservations.

Jennifer O'Dell will certainly return, since her removal would have a significant impact on the ratings, even though some might not like to hear this.

I agree with you that Peter McCauley would be the most likely casualty. The writing really was on the wall as far as Challenger and Summerlee were concerned. As you pointed out, their screen time was reduced near the end of the first season, sometimes to the extent of not having them appear at all.

It seems to me that the real problem is the inability of some TLW writers to accomodate a large cast in their scripts. While handling a regular cast of six characters is not easy, a number of episodes have shown that it can be done.

There still might be a way to change the minds of TPTB, but pre-production of the second season should have reached a stage by now where all cast decisions have been made. I would really like to see Summerlee return, but I'm afraid the chances are not very good.