Here’s an example of how thing are different in the streaming and network world. Amazon‘s "Transparent" and NBC‘s "Hannibal" both offer bold storytelling, great performances, and have been met with critical acclaim. But this week, their fates were very different.
First, Amazon has renewed "Transparent" for a third season, with all the principal cast members coming back, along with Jill Soloway who will executive produce, and continue in her role as showrunner. It’s not a shock the streaming company has re-upped, as it’s their Golden Globe winning crown jewel, and you can tune in next year to see the next batch of episodes. And it looks like Amazon wants to add some more prestige to their lineup.
Following NBC’s cancelation of "Hannibal" this week, the show’s creatives and producers have been trying to find a new home for the serial killer drama. And Amazon, which already has the rights to the first three seasons, is taking a look.
“I know there have been discussions on a couple of fronts with Netflix and Amazon,” the show’s creator and executive producer Bryan Fuller told Variety. “But I believe our deal with Amazon precludes a Netflix component so I think Netflix, who has expressed interest and has expressed great enthusiasm for the show… I don’t think contractually with our Amazon contract, they can pick up the show.”
But there are some roadblocks. Fuller says that without an "NBC component" it will make international sales a bit trickier, and even finding a network to pick up the show, that has already been established and run elsewhere, isn’t an attractive proposition for those who might prefer their own original programming. However, Fuller is already teasing season four, should it happen, but don’t expect things to get bloodier given the potential creative freedom found on a streaming service.
“I don’t know how much darker we can possibly go,” Fuller said. “The concept for the Season 4 arc is one that is inherently twisted, but also such a dynamic shift from where we were the first three seasons that there is also a broadening of the palette to include a lot more humor.”
“The planned arc for Season 4 is a very exciting one, so I would love to see the show continue, whether it be as a series or even condensed into a thriller as a film, as well,” he added.
READ MORE: How The Surprising Moral Strength Of Hannibal Helps To Make It One Of TV’s Best Dramas
Keep hope alive folks, and Fuller says that the social campaigns are helping let people know there’s audience interest.