Once again, the world is reminded that a reboot series from an already popular IP probably isn’t a good idea. That’s especially the case when none of the original cast members are attached to it. Prime Video has learned that again with Cruel Intentions.
TVLine confirms that Cruel Intentions has been canceled after one season, and it’s news that doesn’t surprise many people. This steamy romance series just didn’t capture the heart of the original movie it was based on.
Why has Prime Video canceled Cruel Intentions?
While Prime Video hasn’t shared the exact reasons for the cancellations, a move like this comes down to money. This was one of those shows that probably didn’t get the eyeballs that Amazon needed. It’s hard to say since Amazon, like Netflix, Hulu, and other streamers, doesn’t share its viewership information in full. However, the lack of chatter online and the negative reviews surrounding the series say a lot.
If there wasn’t the initial interest in the series, running a second season is too much of a risk. There’s always a drop in viewership between the seasons—well, unless you’re Game of Thrones!—and that means the cost of production usually isn’t worth the risk.
MORE: Outlander isn't a romance but a love story
Will Cruel Intentions be shopped around?
It doesn’t look like there is any hope for those who did enjoy the series. Usually after a cancellation, there is a line about whether the show is going to be shopped around or not. That wasn’t the case here, suggesting that it really is a one and done.
It is hard to find a new home for a streaming show. CBS tried it with One Day at a Time, but it didn’t manage to take off on broadcast, and there are usually licensing issues when it comes to putting a streaming show on another streamer.
Is it time to create original content more?
This isn’t the first time Prime Video has brought a series based on an iconic movie and canceled it after just one season. I Know What You Did Last Summer was another on in recent months. It just goes to show that people aren’t interested in the reboots of favorite movies of their past.
Is it time for something new? Just look at some of the shows Prime Video has canceled recently. My Lady Jane and The Horror of Deloros Roach are two that were canceled after just one season, and both were based on other source material. I actually think the cancellation of both of these was unfair, with one of those shows coming out at a time of strike action when actors couldn’t promote them. However, it could be a sign that people want original content. It’s time for writers and showrunners to come up with some sort of unique plotline.
Cruel Intentions is available to stream on Prime Video.
Stay up to date with the latest romance news with Claire and Jamie.