"Marco Polo" from Netflix and creator John Fusco is over and done with after Season 2. Despite anticipation from fans that Season 3 will bring leads Marco Polo (Lorenzo Richelmy) and Kublai Khan (Benedict Wong) in an explosive face off with new villain Prester John, this was not to be. Instead, Netflix chose to quit while it's ahead, ending the John Fusco creation on a strong note.
Variety reports confirmation that "Marco Polo" will not continue onto its anticipated Season 3 despite a strong build up of viewership in Season 2. Certainly, the Netflix series wobbled on a weak start, with ratings leaving a lot to be desired. However, "Marco Polo" rallied and delivered a highly improved following by Season 2.
The New York Times points out that cancellation of original offerings is rare for Netflix. The media outlet cites that despite the build up in Season 2, production cost still does not justify the viewership that the series was able to create. According to the New York Times, "Marco Polo" Season 1 and 2 together tallied to $180 million in production costs.
The Independent highlights that "Marco Polo" is the fourth original series to be canceled by Netflix. Previous to the John Fusco creation, Netflix also canceled Bloodline after supporting actor Ben Mendelsohn received an Emmy nod. Netflix also canceled Lilyhammer and Hemlock Grove this year.
With the ax on "Marco Polo" after only two seasons, Netflix may, in fact, be cleaning house for 2017. The Independent points out that as anticipation of content increase in the coming year, Netflix has been pruning off low-rating series even if they're originals from the streaming service. One wonders if any other series is lined up to get the boot from Netflix after announcements concerning "Marco Polo."
Still, this could be a fair trade as "Marco Polo" and similarly canceled shows will give way to fresh content in 2017. Were you taken aback by the "Marco Polo" cancellation? Or did you expect this to happen all along?
