Netflix has axed a sci-fi horror series executive-produced by the Duffer Brothers just weeks after its premiere. The decision not to renew it for a second season seemingly comes despite the show launching to strong critical acclaim.
What led to The Boroughs’ cancellation at Netflix
The cancellation of The Boroughs’ Season 2 stems primarily from viewing numbers that fell short of the platform’s internal expectations, Deadline reported. The series, created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, opened with a modest 5.6 million views in its debut weekend. While that number climbed to 9.5 million in its first full week, it then plummeted to 3.7 million the following week. This decline signalled weak long-tail growth potential.
For a series carrying the creative pedigree of the Duffer brothers, these numbers represented a disappointment. The Boroughs was released in the shadow of Stranger Things’ blockbuster final season. Additionally, Netflix had anticipated a stronger launch for another paranormal project from the duo’s Upside Down Pictures banner. Early discussions about The Boroughs Season 2 had reportedly taken place, with a writers’ room already opened and ideas floated to film second and third instalments back-to-back, according to the outlet. Those plans have now been reportedly scrapped entirely.
Cost seems to have played a decisive role in the calculus. The elaborate special effects required for its otherworldly storyline, combined with the salaries of its all-star cast — including Alfred Molina, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, and Bill Pullman — made the production expensive. Netflix weighs such high price tags against raw viewership data when making renewal decisions.
It appears the critical response was not the problem. The Boroughs scored an impressive 97% on Rotten Tomatoes‘ Tomatometer and a 79% audience score, with reviewers praising its premise of retirement community residents battling an otherworldly threat stealing their time. But ultimately, strong reviews could not salvage soft ratings.
