After a lackluster second half to the first season, Netflix has decided to end the hip-hop dance party that was The Get Down. Not that I'm upset, nor shocked considering the problems it had behind the scenes, but maybe a little surprised they pulled the plug so quickly.
The Baz Luhrmann series got off to a hot start and was one of the most anticipated original shows Netflix had, but it was also one of the most expensive at $120M for the 12-episode first season. Justice Smith, Shameik Moore, Jaden Smith, Herizen Guardiola, Skylan Brook, Giancarlo Esposito, Yahya Abdul-Mateen, Jimmy Smits, and more led the series that explored the rise of hip-hop culture in the 1970s Bronx. Luhrmann's theatrical imprint was all over the first episode, but his influence waned even though he remained on as showrunner. Reports surfaced that he was taking a step back for the planned second season, which obviously won't happen now.
Luhrmann took to Facebook to address the cancellation, and said that his film career and inability to commit full-time to a second season were reasons for it...
"When I was asked to come to the center of The Get Down to help realize it, I had to defer a film directing commitment for at least two years. This exclusivity has understandably become a sticking point for Netflix and Sony, who have been tremendous partners and supporters of the show. It kills me that I can’t split myself into two and make myself available to both productions. I feel so deeply connected to all those who I have worked and collaborated with on this remarkable experience."
"All sorts of things have been thrown around for the future… even a stage show (can you imagine that? I can, concert version anyone? Next summer? Just saying.) But the simple truth is, I make movies. And the thing with movies is, that when you direct them, there can be nothing else in your life. Since The Get Down stopped, I have actually been spending the last few months preparing my new cinematic work… "
It's not often that a Netflix series gets canned after one season. Even the terrible ones get a second shot. I think that speaks to the depth of the issues it was facing. [Deadline]
