Shocking Twist: Winning Time Creator & Director's Explosive Reaction to HBO Cancellation Immediately After Season 2 Finale Revealed!

Summary

HBO has canceled the series Winning Time: The Rise of The Lakers Dynasty after the season 2 finale aired.

The finale's closing scene hinted at the possibility of the story extending for another year, but unfortunately, it was not renewed for another season.

Various indicators suggested that the series may come to an end, and it failed to seize a chance to revitalize itself through the inclusion of fresh basketball players and a distinct time period.

HBO has officially canceled Winning Time: The Rise of The Lakers Dynasty following the airing of its season 2 finale. The show's creator and director expressed their reactions on social media. The finale, which featured a dramatic clash between the Lakers and the Celtics, hinted at the possibility of another season. However, Variety has now confirmed the cancellation, with the additional scene focusing on Lakers owner Jerry Buss and his daughter Jeanie omitted from the initial version of the finale. Series creator Max Borenstein confirmed the unfortunate news on social media.

Borenstein expressed his gratitude and love, despite not achieving the desired ending. Director Salli Richardson also took to Instagram to share her thoughts, stating that while she anticipates more opportunities in TV and film, she is currently most proud of the exceptional work done on this show.

Why Winning Time Was Canceled (& Why It Should Have Returned)

Warning signs for the series had been evident before. Jeff Pearlman, the author of the book that inspired the HBO show, expressed concern about the possibility of a third season and encouraged fans to keep watching. The second season premiered to a combined total of 629,000 viewers on Max and HBO. In comparison, the premiere episode of the first season attracted 901,000 viewers. The ratings reached 1.6 million for the finale in terms of same-day viewers.

There is an argument that Winning Time should have been allowed to continue, considering HBO's track record of keeping series alive, even if they don't have huge viewership or awards. This approach was successful with The Wire, for instance, which is now regarded as one of the greatest American dramas of the modern era.

The show had a simple way to reinvent itself more immediately. Season 3 and beyond of Winning Time: The Rise of The Lakers Dynasty could have introduced legendary basketball players such as Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. By incorporating new needle drops, creating a fresh vibe, and embracing a new era, the show could have evolved in a manner that mirrored the actual team.