Sense8 canceled by Netflix; season 3 hopes fade
In a statement, the service’s own vice-president of original content in Cindy Holland said the following about the decision that was made:
“After 23 episodes, 16 cities and 13 countries, the story of the Sense8 cluster is coming to an end. It is everything we and the fans dreamed it would be: bold, emotional, stunning, kick ass and outright unforgettable … Never has there been a more truly global show with an equally diverse and international cast and crew, which is only mirrored by the connected community of deeply passionate fans all around the world. We thank Lana, Lily, Joe and Grant for their vision, and the entire cast and crew for their craftsmanship and commitment.”
The first thing worth stating about this statement is that the first sentence of it sounds almost like something out of the opening script for The Amazing Race. Humor aside, though, this is also the reason why the show is likely getting canceled — the budget. This is one of television’s most expensive shows, with the different locations, effects, cast, and crew costs putting this high into the millions. It was a very difficult show to produce and had a very lengthy post-production period. With that, this is the sort of show that you almost have to have as one of TV’s biggest hits in order to justify it coming back.
Unfortunately, the high cost is what makes it unlikely that the show could find another home. If it is able to and costs are cut, is it really Sense8 anymore? That is another question worth pondering. The ambition and the feel of the show is one of the primary reasons why it ended up becoming one of the biggest and most-popular shows on all of TV.
Ironically, this cancellation comes not long after Netflix head Reed Hastings made it clear that the service should have some series that don’t last multiple years, as he views this as further proof that they are taking necessary risks.
What do you think about the news of Sense8 being canceled, and what is it that you loved the most about the show? Be sure to share in the comments! (Photo: Netflix.)