Summary

• Netflix cancels many animated shows due to poor ratings and financial concerns, which is problematic for fans who want to see the story continue.
• The cancelation of animated shows limits creativity and removes the freedom that animation offers as an art form, hindering future storytelling potential.
• Other successful animated shows, like Steven Universe, demonstrate how Netflix is missing the opportunity to build fandoms and potential franchises by not giving shows enough time to resonate with audiences.

Netflix cancels a lot of shows in general, but the reason why so many of the streamer's animated series get canceled is worth exploring since it's actually a problematic trend. Poor ratings or financially taxing projects can often lead to cancelations, whether it's after one season on Netflix or before the show has even premiered. Animation seems to get the ax more often, though, and there's a specific reason for that.

Although Netflix has a hefty catalog for viewers, the number of animated shows with staying power isn't as high as it could be, especially when it comes to Netflix's adult animation series. While the animated series format has proven successful over the years, there are promising shows that don't make it very far out of the gate, like those that get only one season, like Inside Job. Or they don't get made at all, like the prematurely scrapped Wings of Fire.

Why Netflix Cancels So Many Animated TV Shows

Although there isn't always a firm reason for a cancelation, there are plausible arguments that could explain Netflix's approach to animated TV shows. The most common is performance-based. If a show doesn't meet the metrics that deem it popular enough within certain time frames, it's less likely to be picked up for a second season because it hasn't proven to be financially viable. For instance, Hoops with Jake Johnson voicing the protagonist didn't have enough viewers to balance the cost of making the show (via Deadline). Similarly, IGN reports that Netflix had to make many cuts, including to animated TV shows, when their subscriber count dropped by 200,000 in 2022.

Aside from the cost, animation time compared to shooting and post-production of live-action shows could impact a streamer's release schedule, making it more challenging to juggle too many animated shows on the roster if they are on vastly different production schedules. The most confusing question around cancelations is when there's proof that the format works. There are plenty of existing adult animations with a proven track record of performing well, such as Bojack Horseman, which deals with controversial topics and heavy themes like alcoholism and depression. Ultimately, it seems the biggest chance factor that can cause cancelations is the timing of the release.

Netflix Canceling Animated Shows Is A Problem

While success exists for some of Netflix's animated projects, a few of the canceled shows indicate a trend that's worrisome. With shows like Tuca & Bertie and Q-Force being canceled after one season, there's a greater disappointment for audiences expecting the story to continue since there's either a cliffhanger, no resolution, or character development that just scratches the surface. It can be even more infuriating for audiences when the content is relatable, like Tuca and Bertie's friendship.

Additionally, since animation offers fewer boundaries to the imagination than live-action, eliminating so many shows just as they take off dampens creativity and removes the sense of freedom that animation as an art form offers. For instance, Tuca & Bertie absurd fictional world, where characters are either a plant or an animal, is able to showcase real life's nonsensical moments through a visually stunning lens that seamlessly shows viewers how to deal with very human struggles, like harassment and mental wellness. Stunting stories tackling topics like this, particularly when done repeatedly, can hamper audience trust in future animation from the streamer.

Tuca & Bertie, while canceled at Netflix, was picked up by Cartoon Network's Adult Swim and went on for another two seasons.

Other Animated TV Shows Show Where Netflix Is Going Wrong

When it comes to animation, there are numerous TV shows that highlight how to execute the surreal elements that facilitate healthy escapism. For instance, Cartoon Network's Steven Universe has a loyal fanbase, a spinoff limited series, and a feature film. It's praised for its accessible way of highlighting mental health and adolescent struggles. Steven Universe also opened the door for future LGBTQ+ cartoons, in a way that can appeal to younger and more adult audiences. It does so through visually distinct settings, authentic familial dynamics, and heartfelt original songs.

Netflix misses the opportunity to foster new series fandoms and potential franchises because shows aren't given enough time to sit with audiences. Yes, metrics are valid when making business decisions, but the unfortunate side is that niche shows or smaller-starting series never get to reach their potential, important stories of representation and relatable moments are squashed, and fans are left frustrated by their favorites being left without a real ending. While Netflix has shown they can give adult animation a proper send-off, as with Disenchantment, the streamer's pattern of canceling animated TV shows highlights there is a long way to go to ensure more consistent and unique stories are told through animation.

Source: Deadline, IGN