Netflix boss defends 13 Reasons Why season 3 renewal

Netflix has officially renewed 13 Reasons Why for a third season, and in response to that CarterMatt has been seeing a mixed reaction from fans, which is not the normal reaction we see when a show gets another season. Typically when a series is brought back for an additional season there is celebration.

Yet, with this series the reaction is somewhat different. This is a controversial series that has presented a graphic take on suicide and sexual violence; with that, there have been concerns that keeping it going in some ways perpetuates the criticism that the show glorifies its subject matter — even if the show’s creators and cast deny such claims.

Today, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings has been fighting back against some of this criticism. Speaking on the subject at a shareholder meeting (per Deadline), he cited the show’s success has a reason to bring it back:

“13 Reasons Why has been enormously popular and successful. It’s engaging content … It is controversial. But nobody has to watch it.”

For the most part, we understand what Hastings is saying here — this is a show that drives a lot of viewers to the service and gets a lot of conversation happening. That’s what any broadcaster wants out of their programming! Yet, “nobody has to watch it” is a pretty weak excuse for a defense of the show’s content. That’s basically shirking any responsibility that Netflix has in what they put on the air.

Regardless of whether or not you agree with the messaging or the story of 13 Reasons Why, we do think that the streaming provider should own what they have chosen to do a little bit more than putting it all on the viewer. Sure it’s controversial, engaging and clearly brings in a lot of cash, but storywise why not take this opportunity to really sell the critics on why this show needs another season and that it’s not just a property that’s going to be driven into the ground to make a buck. We understand it’s a business, but this show is more than just a show at this point – it’s started tough conversations with kids, parents and with peers and there aren’t many shows that can really put claim to something like that.

Related – Be sure to check out some more news when it comes to the renewal from earlier today

What do you think about the 13 Reasons Why season 3 renewal, and do you think that Netflix made the right decision in picking the show up for more? Be sure to share right now in the comments!

Meanwhile, you can also like CarterMatt on Facebook to secure some more news and insight when it comes to the series. It’s the best place to stay up to date with all of our scoop on the show and connect with other fans. (Photo: Netflix.)