Netflix’s practice of canceling shows after three seasons has a reputation as infamous as zombies with a taste for human flesh—the unique premise of Victor Fresco’s show, Santa Clarita Diet. Fresco has openly shared his discontent about the abrupt cancellation of the show, highlighting a pattern that has left creators and fans alike eating dust. Despite its cliffhanger finish, this comedy-horror mix about suburban life wrapped up after its third season—a fate not uncommon for Netflix original series.
Understanding the Three-Season Syndrome
Netflix isn’t exactly known for long commitments unless a series hits ‘monster success,’ such as Stranger Things. This pattern stems from the business strategy behind Netflix’s contract bonuses, which increase yearly. As Fresco pointed out in an interview with The Guardian, it becomes financially burdensome for Netflix to continue shows into a fourth season due to these annually-increasing bonuses.
The show, headlined by Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant, introduced audiences to a world where Barrymore’s character finds herself zombified. The last season ended on a suspenseful note, with Olyphant’s character, Joel, turning into a zombie—an unresolved plot Fresco hoped might reduce the ease with which the series could be cut.
The Fallout
Santa Clarita Diet’s cancellation came as an unwelcome surprise to both its creator and devoted audience. Despite Fresco’s attempt at reverse psychology with the unresolved storyline, Netflix’s decision was definitive. He found out about the cancellation under striking circumstances—while editing the third season—which speaks volumes about the unpredictability and lack of closure sometimes faced by creators.
Yet Frensco also acknowledged Netflix’s initial gamble on his unconventional project. He expressed mixed feelings when he recognized the network’s role in bringing the show to life, highlighted by his statement acknowledging their risk in backing such an offbeat idea.
Closing Credits
The three-season norm isn’t just a theoretical cap anymore; it’s a reality borne out in stories like that of Santa Clarita Diet. Victor Fresco’s recollection of the event underlines the challenges and realities facing TV creators today. Meanwhile, audiences remain hopeful that their favorite, doomed shows may find some resurrection, akin to Barrymore’s undead character. However, unless strategic shifts occur in the streaming world, we’ll likely continue to see our cherished series drop off after three rounds of airing. The takeaway? An appreciation for whatever precious viewing time Netflix chooses to spare your new cult favorite.
