Netflix Cancels ‘The Boroughs’ Amid Duffer Brothers Departure Controversy

Netflix’s recent cancellation of ‘The Boroughs’ has sparked discussions throughout Hollywood, particularly since the sci-fi series was performing well on streaming charts. A report from The Hollywood Reporter suggests that the cancellation may be tied to more than just viewership numbers, with sources indicating that Netflix executives were displeased with the Duffer Brothers’ decision to leave for Paramount.

‘The Boroughs’ debuted on Netflix with significant anticipation. Produced by Matt and Ross Duffer, the creators of ‘Stranger Things,’ the series featured a talented cast, including Alfred Molina, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, Denis O’Hare, Clarke Peters, and Bill Pullman. The show was created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews.

Although it was canceled after just one season, the series managed to resonate with viewers. The Hollywood Reporter highlighted that ‘The Boroughs’ ranked impressively on Netflix’s weekly charts following its release, reaching No. 2 on the English-language TV chart within its first four days with 5.6 million views, and then climbing to No. 1 the subsequent week with 9.5 million views.

Nielsen’s streaming data also reflected strong viewer interest, marking the series as one of the most-watched during its debut week. Critics responded favorably as well, with the show earning commendable ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.

However, sources cited by The Hollywood Reporter claim that the cancellation was influenced by tensions between Netflix and the Duffer Brothers following their exit to pursue a significant deal with Paramount.

One insider told THR that Netflix executives felt the Duffer Brothers had embarrassed the company by taking their future projects elsewhere. The relationship between the two parties was described as “tough” following the departure.

Conversely, a source close to Netflix argued that the cancellation was purely a business decision based on performance metrics and production costs. Netflix typically evaluates a show’s audience numbers against its budget when determining its future.

Reportedly, ‘The Boroughs’ was costly to produce, with estimates suggesting it cost around $10 million per episode, with some sources claiming the actual costs were even higher. Despite its strong viewership, the series did not meet the necessary thresholds to justify its expenses.

Nevertheless, the timing of the cancellation raised eyebrows. Netflix made the announcement shortly after news broke that the Duffer Brothers would continue their careers at Paramount under a new four-year contract. Sources from The Hollywood Reporter suggested that the cancellation of ‘The Boroughs’ might have been a message from Netflix about the consequences of leaving the company.

The cancellation also coincided with Netflix’s decision on whether to renew the contracts of the show’s cast. Ultimately, the streamer opted not to extend those options, effectively concluding any chance of a second season.

According to multiple sources referenced by THR, a revival seems unlikely since Netflix owns the series entirely and would not be expected to sell it to a rival, particularly Paramount.

A source close to the Duffer Brothers mentioned that the creators maintain a positive relationship with Netflix and continue to develop multiple projects with the platform.

While Netflix has denied that the decision was personal, this situation exemplifies the complex dynamics between major studios, creators, and streaming services. For ‘The Boroughs,’ impressive audience figures were not sufficient to save it from behind-the-scenes business decisions.

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