Is Bridgerton At Risk After Hulu's The Great Cancelation?

It is not yet clear how this period will go down in pop culture history, but we can already say with certainty that it'll be remembered as one of the most unstable moments for Hollywood. Viewing culture is changing with streaming platforms, AI is actively deployed, and WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes underscore the need for change.

Unfortunately, not only are creators suffering, but viewers as well, as many highly anticipated shows and movies are being delayed, and some of the most popular projects have even been canceled.For example, Hulu recently pulled the plug on its period drama The Great, loosely based on the life of Russian Catherine the Great. The decision saddened many fans.

The show, starring Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult, was highly praised by audiences and critics, and even won numerous awards. But The Great was apparently too expensive and not popular enough for the platform to greenlight another season. Now, all period drama fans have a concern.

What if Bridgerton follows in the footsteps of The Great?

It is not difficult to draw parallels between Bridgerton and The Great. Both shows are based on historical periods but don't strive for accuracy to create an alternate history. Both feature expensive, lavish costumes and sets. Both star brilliant actors. Both are critically and commercially acclaimed.

So could Netflix cancel Bridgerton like Hulu canceled The Great? One can argue both for and against it.

Arguments for cancellation

Even though Bridgerton is officially renewed for Season 4, if the Hollywood strikes continue, it'll be harder for Netflix to keep all of the show's large core cast members available. We are already seeing many popular shows being canceled for this reason.

Also, the new deals that will need to be signed to end the strikes and continue work on the show could make Bridgerton too expensive to produce, which could lead Netflix to focus on cheaper but equally successful projects.

Arguments against cancellation

The main reason we think the streaming giant will stick with Bridgerton is that there are not many equally successful shows. While The Great had relatively low ratings, Bridgerton is at the top of many Netflix lists.

The streaming service is all about profits, and with Stranger Things heading into its final season, Netflix needs a flagship show to attract new subscribers and retain old ones. So far, Bridgerton is their best bet.

And last but not least, even if Netflix decides that Bridgerton has become too expensive and doesn't renew it for new seasons, it's very likely that creator Shonda Rhimes will continue to make the show with another studio. After all, Bridgerton is Shonda's baby and her name is inextricably linked to it.