RIP ‘The Boroughs,’ Which Netflix Just Canceled After One Season
Netflix will not renew the sci-fi series The Boroughs for a second season, according to Deadline. The Duffer Brothers-produced show was canceled barely a month after its debut following a steep drop in viewership and high production costs tied to its ensemble cast and special effects.
Why was The Boroughs canceled by Netflix?
The streamer decided against a renewal because the show’s high expenses didn’t align with its audience retention, according to Deadline. The series featured an expensive cast and heavy use of special effects.
The decision came as a surprise to some, as a writers’ room had already begun breaking the second season in anticipation of a renewal. However, the cost of maintaining big stars and visual effects likely made the series unsustainable given the declining numbers.
What were the viewership numbers for The Boroughs?
The show’s audience plummeted quickly after a strong opening, according to Deadline. It earned approximately 5.6 million views in its first weekend, with that number nearly doubling to 9.5 million over the first full week.
Viewership then dropped to 3.7 million views in the second week. By Tuesday evening, the series had fallen to number 10 on Netflix’s Top 10 list.
What was the plot and cast of the series?
The Boroughs followed a group of seniors living in a mysterious retirement community. The plot involved secret tunnels, monsters, and a quest for eternal life.
The cast included Alfred Molina in a leading role, alongside Bill Pullman, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, and Clarke Peters. While the premise and cast were praised, some felt the series was underwritten by the end, leaving too many plot points vague or unexplained.
What happens next for the series?
Since Netflix has officially decided not to renew the show, a second season is unlikely to move forward. The existing work done by the writers’ room may remain unused.
The series may remain available for binging on the platform, though its cancellation could potentially impact new viewership growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who produced The Boroughs?
The series was produced by the Duffer Brothers.
Who were the lead actors in the show?
The cast featured Alfred Molina, Bill Pullman, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, and Clarke Peters.
What was the central premise of the story?
The show focused on seniors in a mysterious retirement community dealing with monsters, secret tunnels, and eternal life.
Did you watch The Boroughs before the cancellation announcement?