5 shows Netflix probably won’t save

Even though Netflix saved Manifest, the streaming service can’t save every show based on fan demand alone. In the case of the shamefully axed NBC fan-favorite, the viewership figures on Netflix were too dominating to ignore, making that save a no-brainer.

As much as we would love for Netflix to swoop in and save every show that gets regretfully canceled by a broadcast or cable network a la Lucifer, Designated Survivor, and Cobra Kai, it’s just not realistic or even feasibly in terms of business.

But that doesn’t stop passionate fans from beating down Netflix’s door to ask, beg, and plead for them to do what they have done for others: Save their favorite show. It’s their right to ask the streamer to repeat history and turn a struggling show into one of their powerful Netflix shows.

Between Prodigal Son, an adored Fox cast-off, and a pair of beloved Netflix shows with fandoms full of undying fervor, these shows should be, but probably won’t be, saved by Netflix. Still, fans should keep their fingers crossed for a miracle in the future.

Shows Netflix probably won’t save

First things first, some of these shows have a better shot at a second chance than others, but that’s not to dash the hopes of fans. We’re merely looking at the facts and figures to predict the future of each of these shows that totally deserve comeback, no matter how unlikely it looks.

Anne with an E

Ever since CBC and Netflix, who co-produced the series in Canada and internationally, announced that Anne with an E had been canceled in 2019, fans haven’t given up on saving the show, and it’s honestly inspiring.

From online petitions and buying out billboards, Anne stans have done everything in their power to tempt CBC and Netflix to reverse their decision, but it doesn’t seem as though either entity will budge on bringing the series back for season 4.

Dark Matter

Dark Matter, the Canadian science fiction series that aired on the Syfy Network in the United States, ran for three seasons between 2015 and 2017. Although the complete series is currently available to stream on Netflix and devoted fans are still clamoring for more, there’s been no serious case made for Netflix to consider taking the risk to order another season.

Prodigal Son

In the case of Fox’s short-lived crime drama Prodigal Son, it’s a sticky situation. After the series had been canceled in May 2021, word circulated about the possibility of the series moving to a different network or streaming serivce. But in the shadow of Manifest, it seems increasingly improbable.

Netflix seemed to move away from saving shows prior to saving Manifest, but they managed to move mountains to acquire the rights to the show from Warner Bros. Television as they had with Lucifer. Although Prodigal Son hails from WBTV, too, lightning only strikes twice. Also, it’s not even streaming on Netflix in the US, which isn’t a good sign.

Wynonna Earp

The dark fantasy series Wynonna Earp aired on the Syfy Network for four seasons, coming to a confusing end in April 2021. Even though Syfy announced the fourth season would be the last, its Canadian home never officially canceled the series.

While the fans’ hopes that Wynonna Earp would somehow be saved, possibly even by Netflix, are understandable, there’s no concrete evidence that such a prospect is even on the table. All four seasons are streaming on Netflix, and unfortunately that might be the best we get.

Julie and the Phantoms

Here’s the only show on this list with the most obvious silver lining. Netflix hasn’t officially canceled Julie and the Phantoms, and it hasn’t renewed the teen musical series either. In fact, Netflix hasn’t said much of anything about the series since its release in 2020.

We’d suggest to prepare for the worst, since over one year elapsing without a renewal seems like the writing’s on the wall. But there’s still a fair amount of faith to be had for Julie and the Phantoms. We’ll have to wait and see if the “hard work” pays off for season 2.

Which of these shows do you want Netflix to save the most?