In a surprising move that left fans with a sense of nostalgia-induced whiplash, Netflix has decided to cancel “That ’90s Show” after its second season. The sequel to the beloved “That ’70s Show,” which entertained audiences between 1998 and 2006, made its grand debut on January 19, 2023. Despite the initial buzz and a dedicated fan base eager to relive the charm of yesterday’s youth culture nostalgia, the show encountered an unexpectedly lukewarm reception. Its second season was strategically rolled out in two parts on June 27 and August 22, 2024. However, this tactic didn’t seem to rescue it from the executioner’s axe.
Unpacking ‘That ’90s Show’
The show promised to continue the legacy of its predecessor, centering around Leia, a teen navigating the complexities of mid-90s life while aspiring to stay under her iconic grandfather Red Forman’s radar. The show brought back Kurtwood Smith as Red Forman and Debra Jo Rupp as Kitty Forman, banking on their chemistry and comedic timing to revitalize the sitcom magic. Plotlines followed a formulaic teen sitcom style, with Leia’s antics intermingling with visits from familiar faces and new characters attempting to carve out their niches.
Critics and audiences, however, were somewhat divided. While the return of original cast members and nostalgic nods to the ‘90s were appreciated, many viewers felt the show failed to innovate beyond its nostalgic impulses. It seems the appeal of cassette tapes, grunge music, and dial-up internet wasn’t enough to overcome the more critical issue at hand – the series simply didn’t spark the original’s charm.
Kurtwood Smith’s Emotional Response
Kurtwood Smith, who reprised his role as Red Forman, showed his dissatisfaction through an Instagram post addressing the unexpected conclusion of the series. In a heartfelt message, he thanked fans across the globe for their support and hinted at the deep connections the cast and crew shared.
Industry Reaction and Future Prospects
While the show’s premature ending might seem like the final curtain, Smith hinted at plans to explore other avenues to keep “That ’90s Show” alive. True to Red Forman’s character spirit, there’s a reluctance to accept defeat without a fight, with efforts reportedly underway to find a new platform willing to pick up where Netflix left off. This move aligns well with the current streaming landscape, where series have found second lives beyond their initial homes.
Our Take
The cancellation of “That ’90s Show” also comes amidst controversy surrounding Danny Masterson’s recent conviction. Some original cast members, including Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, wrote letters of support for Masterson, which didn’t sit well with many fans. This public support led to backlash, further complicating the show’s perception and perhaps contributing to its dwindling fan enthusiasm. The involvement of these beloved actors in the controversy added an uncomfortable tension for fans who were looking to recapture the lighthearted nostalgia of the original series.
Closing Credits
Despite its untimely cancellation, “That ’90s Show” offered a nostalgic ride through a decade laden with pop culture gems. While the series is currently sitting in limbo, with attempts to secure a new home, fans can only hope that Leia and her friends continue their journey to graduation and perhaps stumble upon new plotlines that exceed the nostalgia trap. While we await further developments, one thing is for sure: Red Forman’s legacy and his disdain for “dumbasses” remain intact, ever-ready for a potential encore.
