'That 90s Show' Axed by Netflix

Netflix has decided not to continue with That ’90s Show, as confirmed by star Kurtwood Smith on Instagram. The cancellation comes shortly after the release of Part 3 on August 22, marking a two-season run for the sequel to That ’70s Show.

The series debuted with a 10-episode first season, which included appearances from original cast members like Topher Grace, Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, and Wilmer Valderrama, drawing in nostalgia from longtime fans. Following its initial success, it received a renewal for a second season of 16 episodes, divided into Parts 2 and 3.

While it’s always disappointing to see a series end, particularly one that taps into such beloved characters and settings, the trend of multi-cam comedies being released in parts might have contributed to its quick lifecycle. The decision reflects the competitive landscape of streaming, where audience engagement can dictate a show's future rapidly.

This comes as no surprise. That ’90s Show after Part 2’s lackluster performance was a hint. Despite making the Netflix Top 10 during its first full week with 1.8 million views, it struggled to maintain momentum. The decision to move up the premiere of Part 3 by nearly two months likely reflected concerns about viewer engagement.

Unfortunately, the eight episodes of Part 3 did not make an impact, drawing under 1.9 million views during its opening weekend and continuing to decline in subsequent weeks. This drop in viewership likely contributed to Netflix's decision not to renew the series further.

In the competitive streaming landscape, consistent viewer interest is crucial, and it seems That ’90s Show struggled to capture and hold its audience's attention. It's always tough to see a show end, especially one that aimed to connect with fans of the original series, but the numbers clearly indicated a need for a different direction.

In That ’90s Show, the story picks up 15 years later in 1995, with Eric and Donna’s daughter, played by Callie Haverda, visiting her grandparents for the summer. This setting allows her to connect with a new group of friends in Point Place, which echoes the premise of the original series while introducing a fresh cast of characters.

The main ensemble features Gwen (Ashley Aufderheide), Jay (Mace Coronel), Nate (Maxwell Acee Donovan), Ozzie (Reyn Doi), and Nikki (Sam Morelos), providing a diverse mix of personalities and dynamics that mirror the beloved original group. Season 2 also promised exciting guest appearances from familiar faces like Seth Green, Will Forte, Kevin Smith, and Matt Rife, aimed at drawing in fans of both the new and original series.

Despite the nostalgia and fresh storylines, it seems the show struggled to resonate with audiences as hoped, leading to its cancellation. It’s always disappointing when a series that seeks to continue a beloved legacy doesn’t find the audience it needs.

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