Netflix has officially announced the cancellation of ‘That ’90s Show,’ as confirmed by cast member Kurtwood Smith on social media. This decision follows the release of Part 3 of the sequel to ‘That ’70s Show,’ which came on August 22, marking the series’ end after a brief two-season run. Netflix tends to release its multi-camera comedies in parts rather than traditional seasons, and this approach seems to have played a role in the show’s fate.
The initial 10-episode season of ‘That ’90s Show,’ which featured notable appearances from original cast members like Topher Grace and Mila Kunis, was succeeded by a second season with 16 episodes divided into Parts 2 and 3. Part 2, which debuted on June 27, struggled to find its footing, managing only a single week in the Netflix Top 10 with about 1.8 million views. Following its initial lackluster performance, Netflix hastily moved up the release of Part 3, which ultimately did not make a significant impact.
Viewership data indicates the show’s difficulties, as Part 3 failed to gain traction, with fewer than 1.9 million views during its opening weekend. It further declined, racking up under 1.6 million in its first full week and dropping to less than 1.4 million in its second week. This downturn aligns with the trend seen across multi-camera comedies on streaming platforms, as they generally struggle to maintain viewer interest.
In their management of multi-camera comedies, Netflix has had a few notable successes, including ‘Fuller House’ and ‘The Ranch,’ but the overall genre is facing significant challenges. ‘That ’90s Show’ aimed to replicate the nostalgic success of ‘Fuller House’ by continuing the beloved narrative decades later, with Smith and Debra Jo Rupp reprising their roles as Red and Kitty Forman.
In a heartfelt message shared with fans, Smith expressed his gratitude for being able to portray Grandpa Red once again, recognizing the talent and creativity behind the series. He acknowledged the warmth and joy that the show brought to viewers during its short run. The narrative takes place in 1995, 15 years after the events of its predecessor, with Eric and Donna’s daughter, played by Callie Haverda, spending the summer with her grandparents and forming new friendships in Point Place.
The cancellation serves as another indicator of the difficulties faced by streaming platforms in retaining audiences with original multi-camera productions. Netflix’s next project in this genre will feature comedian Leanne Morgan, produced by the well-known sitcom creator Chuck Lorre.