Netflix Cancels Duffer Brothers' 'The Boroughs' Amid High Costs and Shifting Studio Relations
Netflix has reportedly canceled 'The Boroughs,' a new series from the Duffer Brothers, creators of 'Stranger Things.' The decision comes despite the show's strong performance, charting at No.
2 on Nielsen's Streaming TV Top 10 list and accumulating 1.2 billion minutes viewed within its first month.
The cancellation of a series with such initial viewership has prompted questions, especially given its ensemble cast, which included Alfred Molina, Geena Davis, and Alfre Woodard.
This development suggests a shift in Netflix's priorities and its relationship with prominent creators.
Production Costs and Studio Politics
According to The Hollywood Reporter, a primary factor in the cancellation was the show's expensive production budget.
Sources indicate that 'The Boroughs' cost approximately $10 million per episode, with some suggesting the actual figure was "materially higher." Netflix reportedly weighs viewership directly against production costs when making renewal decisions, and while 'The Boroughs' performed well, it did not reach the viewership levels of a phenomenon like 'Wednesday' to justify its high price tag.
To put this into perspective, the first season of 'Stranger Things' reportedly cost around $6 million per episode.
If the reported costs for 'The Boroughs' are accurate, its inaugural season would have significantly surpassed that, potentially reaching upwards of $80 million.
Another reported reason for the cancellation involves the Duffer Brothers' professional relationship with Netflix.
The Hollywood Reporter suggests that the Duffer Brothers' four-year deal with Paramount may have "rubbed high-ranking Netflix executives the wrong way." One source claimed the relationship became "tough" after the brothers "embarrassed" the streamer by leaving.
However, a source close to Netflix denied this characterization, stating the decision was purely business-related.
This situation highlights the evolving dynamics between major streaming platforms and content creators, where financial considerations and studio allegiances can significantly impact a show's future, even with strong viewership.
'The Boroughs' will not receive a second season, though its single season remains available for streaming on Netflix.
Key points
- Netflix has reportedly canceled 'The Boroughs,' a series created by the Duffer Brothers, despite its strong initial viewership.
- The cancellation was allegedly influenced by the show's high production budget, reportedly around $10 million per episode or potentially higher.
- Sources suggest the Duffer Brothers' new deal with Paramount also played a role in Netflix's decision, souring their relationship with the streamer.