Exploring the Fate of Anne With An E and Its Mysterious Cancellation
“Anne With An E” captured the hearts of viewers with its coming-of-age tale centered around Anne Shirley, a spirited young girl who finds herself in a new family on Prince Edward Island. Loosely based on the beloved “Anne of Green Gables” books by Lucy Maud Montgomery, this Canadian series added a modern twist to the classic story, making it accessible to a new generation of viewers.
Despite its success and acclaim, Netflix made a surprising decision to cancel the series after its third season. In this article, we dive into the reasons behind the cancellation and explore the lingering hopes for a potential Season 4.
The Story of Anne With An E
Based on the Classic “Anne of Green Gables”
“Anne With An E” faithfully follows the journey of Anne Shirley, a 13-year-old orphan, mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert on Prince Edward Island. The series beautifully modernized this Canadian classic, tackling issues such as gender inequality, racism, and child abandonment while maintaining a lighthearted tone.
The show’s success was evident, and it even earned the Canadian Screen Award for Best Drama Series, a testament to its quality and impact.
The Shocking Cancellation
Why Did Netflix Pull the Plug?
Despite the show’s positive reviews and a dedicated fanbase, Netflix decided to cancel “Anne With An E,” leaving many bewildered. Speculations arose, with some believing that the series didn’t meet the necessary ratings to justify its production costs.
Moria Walley-Beckett, the show’s producer, shed light on the situation in an Instagram post, expressing their efforts to change Netflix’s decision and explore alternative options, including a finale movie. However, terms like “Economics, Algorithms, Demographics” seemed to be the deciding factors, highlighting the complex relationship between art and commerce in the entertainment industry.
The Netflix Factor
Contractual Limitations and CBC’s Influence
Netflix’s strict conditions for keeping shows running played a significant role in the cancellation. Anne With An E’s demise coincided with the Canadian network CBC cutting ties with Netflix. This contractual restriction prevented the show from seeking a new network immediately after cancellation, similar to the fate of Marvel TV shows like Daredevil, which eventually moved to Disney+.
Catherine Tait, CEO of CBC, revealed concerns that producing content for Netflix was negatively impacting the Canadian film industry, further complicating the show’s future.
Hopes for a Revival
Fans Rally, but Is There Hope?
Despite the cancellation in 2019, devoted fans launched petitions and campaigns to revive “Anne With An E.” However, as of now, there is no indication of the series making a comeback. One significant hurdle is the aging of the lead actress, Amybeth McNulty, who may no longer fit the role of the young Anne.
While the producers have made it clear that there won’t be a return to the screen, the show continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many.
Conclusion
“Anne With An E” touched audiences with its poignant storytelling and social commentary, but its cancellation remains a mystery to many. As we bid farewell to the hope of Season 4, fans can still cherish the memories and impactful themes the series brought to life.
If you’re longing for more of Anne’s adventures, consider exploring Amybeth McNulty’s other projects and keep an eye out for what the talented cast and crew have in store for the future.