As Netflix grows, the longterm endgame for the service to rely less on licensing content from Hollywood studios and production companies, and more on continuing to pursuing their own diverse slate of original programming. The part of this plan that doesn’t get discussed much is that if Netflix doesn’t want to litter their service with one-season programs, they have to keep funding their series, even if the viewership numbers are low (like, seriously, is anyone watching “Flaked“?). Cancellations are rare on Netflix, and even rarer still after a single season, but one high profile show is getting the axe.
It has been announced (via THR) that “The Get Down” will be not renewed for a second season. Baz Luhrmann‘s ambitious trip into the soul, disco and hip hop world of 1970s New York City was a troubled production, facing numerous delays, skyrocketing costs (it was said “The Get Down” was costing as much as $16 million per episode), personnel changes, and reportedly weak viewership numbers (based on outside analysis, as the company famously doesn’t release their data). Netflix isn’t afraid to spend money (see “The Crown“) but probably wants to see some reward and acclaim for that risk (again, see “The Crown”). Whatever happened, Netflix clearly is ready to wash their hands of the show, as the final run of the series stands at eleven episodes, not thirteen as they originally ordered.
For his part, Luhrmann took to Facebook to thank fans for their support, but admitted that his heart is in moviemaking. He also teased a possible future for “The Get Down” as a stage show or concert version, but I seriously doubt that’s going to happen:
When I was asked to come to the center of The Get Down to help realize it, I had to defer a film directing commitment for at least two years. This exclusivity has understandably become a sticking point for Netflix and Sony, who have been tremendous partners and supporters of the show. It kills me that I can’t split myself into two and make myself available to both productions. I feel so deeply connected to all those who I have worked and collaborated with on this remarkable experience.
All sorts of things have been thrown around for the future… even a stage show (can you imagine that? I can, concert version anyone? Next summer? Just saying.) But the simple truth is, I make movies. And the thing with movies is, that when you direct them, there can be nothing else in your life. Since The Get Down stopped, I have actually been spending the last few months preparing my new cinematic work…
Read his full statement below, and let us know if you wanted to see more of “The Get Down” in the comments section.