Why Netflix's High Cancellation Rate of Animated TV Shows Presents Challenges

Article Overview

Netflix cancels many animated shows due to poor ratings and financial concerns, which is problematic for fans who want to see the story continue.

Canceling animated shows restricts creativity and deprives animation of its artistic freedom, thereby inhibiting its potential for future storytelling. Netflix, by not allowing shows sufficient time to resonate with audiences, is missing out on the chance to cultivate fanbases and potentially create successful franchises, as examples like Steven Universe have demonstrated.

Netflix frequently cancels shows, and this trend is particularly evident in their animated series. The reasons behind these cancellations are worth examining as it has become an issue. Poor ratings and financial strain often result in shows being axed, sometimes after just one season or even before they premiere. Animation shows seem to face this fate more frequently, and there is a specific explanation for it.

Despite having a vast collection of content, Netflix's selection of animated shows with enduring popularity is lacking, particularly in the realm of adult animation. Although animated series have proven successful in the past, there are promising shows that fail to gain traction, resulting in premature cancellations. One example is Inside Job, which only received one season, or Wings of Fire, which didn't even make it to production before being scrapped.

Why Netflix Cancels So Many Animated TV Shows

Netflix's decision to cancel animated TV shows is often based on their performance. If a show fails to meet certain metrics and prove its popularity within a specific timeframe, it is less likely to be renewed for a second season due to financial viability concerns. One example is the show Hoops, which featured Jake Johnson as the lead voice actor but did not attract enough viewers to justify its production costs. According to Deadline, Netflix had to make several cuts, including to animated shows, after losing 200,000 subscribers in 2022.

In addition to financial considerations, the longer production time required for animation compared to live-action shows can also affect the release schedule of streaming platforms. Managing a large number of animated shows with different production schedules becomes more challenging. Despite the success of adult animations like Bojack Horseman, which tackles heavy themes such as alcoholism and depression, it remains perplexing when proven formats still face cancellation.

Ultimately, the timing of a show's release appears to be a significant factor contributing to cancellations.

Netflix Canceling Animated Shows Is A Problem

Some of Netflix's animated projects have achieved success, but the cancellation of shows like Tuca & Bertie and Q-Force raises concerns about a troubling trend. Audiences are left disappointed when these shows are canceled after just one season, especially when there are unresolved plotlines, lack of closure, or shallow character development. This frustration is magnified when the content is relatable, such as the friendship portrayed in Tuca and Bertie.

Furthermore, animation, with its limitless creative possibilities, allows for unrestrained imagination that live-action cannot match. However, prematurely terminating shows just as they gain momentum stifles creativity and eliminates the sense of artistic freedom that animation as a medium provides. For example, Tuca & Bertie's whimsical world, where characters are plants or animals, effectively captures the absurdity of real-life moments and offers valuable insights into human struggles like harassment and mental well-being. Continually hindering the exploration of such meaningful themes can undermine audience trust in future animated content from Netflix.

Tuca & Bertie, while canceled at Netflix, was picked up by Cartoon Network's Adult Swim and went on for another two seasons.

Other Animated TV Shows Show Where Netflix Is Going Wrong

When it comes to animation, numerous TV shows excel at presenting surreal elements that provide a healthy escape. One such example is Cartoon Network's Steven Universe, which boasts a dedicated fanbase, a spinoff limited series, and even a feature film. This show is highly acclaimed for its ability to tackle mental health and the struggles of adolescence in an accessible manner. Additionally, Steven Universe has paved the way for LGBTQ+ cartoons that can appeal to both younger and adult audiences. It achieves this through visually captivating settings, genuine family dynamics, and emotionally resonant original songs.

Unfortunately, Netflix often misses the opportunity to cultivate new fandoms and potential franchises because they don't give shows enough time to develop a bond with audiences. While metrics are undoubtedly important for making business decisions, the downside is that niche or smaller-starting series never get the chance to reach their full potential. Important stories that aim to represent marginalized groups and relatable moments often go unnoticed, leaving fans frustrated and deprived of a satisfying conclusion. Although Netflix has proven capable of giving adult animation a proper send-off, as seen with Disenchantment, the trend of canceling animated TV shows highlights the need for improvement in ensuring consistent and unique storytelling through animation.

Source: Deadline, IGN

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about Netflix's high cancellation rate of animated TV shows. On the one hand, I understand that the company needs to make financial decisions in order to stay afloat. On the other hand, I feel that this trend is depriving viewers of quality content and stifling creativity in the animation industry.

I think it's important for Netflix to remember that animated TV shows are not just for kids. There are many adults who enjoy watching animation, and we appreciate the variety of content that is available on streaming platforms. When Netflix cancels a show that we're invested in, it's a huge disappointment. It's also frustrating to see shows being canceled after just one season, when there is still so much potential for storytelling.

I urge Netflix to reconsider its cancellation policy for animated TV shows. I believe that with a little more patience and investment, the company could create some truly amazing content that would appeal to viewers of all ages.