5 English Web Series That Are Likely To End By 2023
As we roll through 2023, the destiny of many beloved TV shows hangs in the balance. Entertainment is a rollercoaster, with cancellations weaving into the narrative just as much as fresh beginnings. Last year, a slew of shows faced the chopping block, stirring a cauldron of emotions among viewers. Now, as we near the close of 2023, the trend persists. This piece shines a light on five English web series that are waving their final goodbyes, delving into why they’re calling it quits and the echoes they leave behind.
1. The Great
Summary:
“The Great” dives headfirst into an alternate history, a wild take on the rise of Catherine the Great. Elle Fanning as Empress Catherine II and Nicholas Hoult as Emperor Peter III led the charge, earning the series praise for its humor, stellar cast, and historical narrative with a twist.
Cast: Elle Fanning, Phoebe Fox, Nicholas Hoult, Charity Wakefield, Gwilym Lee, Sacha Dhawan, Adam Godley, Douglas Hodge, Belinda Bromilow, Bayo Gbadamosi, Sebastian de Souza, Florence Keith-Roach
When and Why is the Show Ending:
After three seasons of laughter, drama, and historical shenanigans, Hulu pulled the plug in August 2023, announcing “The Great” wouldn’t be back for a fourth round. Fans were left in disbelief, given the critical acclaim and award nominations. The series finale did justice to Catherine’s growth but didn’t tease any cliffhangers, suggesting a deliberate and thoughtful conclusion.
Quoting Lynette Rice from GameSpot:
“Hulu has canceled fan favorite The Great after three seasons. The series reinvented the period drama by revisiting the life of Catherine the Great, Russia’s reigning empress from 1762 to 1796.”
2. Firefly Lane
Summary:
“Firefly Lane” weaves through the lives of two inseparable friends, Kate and Tully, from the ’70s to the mid-2000s. Based on Kristin Hannah’s novel, the series etches the enduring bond between these women and the hurdles they face over decades.
Cast: Sarah Chalke, Katherine Heigl, Beau Garrett, Ben Lawson, Ali Skovbye, Roan Curtis, Yael Yurman
When and Why is the Show Ending:
The announcement of “Firefly Lane” bidding adieu hit in October 2022, catching fans off guard. The final season, split into two parts, neatly tied up loose ends, especially with Kate’s battle against cancer. The show wrapped up in sync with the conclusion of its narrative, leaving its dedicated audience with a sense of closure.
Quoting Kasey Moore from Netflix Life:
“Firefly Lane has been one of the best series adaptations at Netflix in many years. It comes to an end with the release of the second and final season.”
3. Sex Education
Summary:
“Sex Education” takes on the complexities of teenage life, relationships, and, well, sex education. Set in the fictional town of Moordale, the series navigates the challenges of sexual intimacy with a blend of humor and sensitivity.
Cast: Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, Asa Butterfield, Connor Swindells, Kedar Williams-Stirling, Emma Mackey, Alistair Petrie, Mimi Keene, Aimee Lou Wood
When and Why is the Show Ending:
With a triumphant four-season run, “Sex Education” is gearing up for its final act, slated for release on September 21, 2023. Fans, though saddened, acknowledge the series’ achievements. The creators, led by Laurie Nunn, express pride and gratitude to the cast and crew.
Quoting Joe Otterson from Variety:
““Sex Education” will now end with the upcoming Season 4 at Netflix. The final season of the popular series will debut on the streamer on Sept. 21.”
4. Succession
Summary:
“Succession” provides a satirical peek into the chaotic lives of the Roy family, the big shots behind the global conglomerate Waystar RoyCo. The series, fueled by sharp writing and stellar performances, delves into their power struggles and quest for control.
Cast: Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin, Sarah Snook, Matthew Macfadyen, Alan Ruck, Hiam Abbass, Nicholas Braun
When and Why is the Show Ending:
Come February 2023, Jesse Armstrong, the series’ creator, confirmed that the impending fourth season would also be its swan song. Despite acclaim and a loyal fan base, the decision to conclude the series was made with a clear vision for the storyline, delivering a satisfying resolution to the Roy family saga.
Quoting Lesley Goldberg from The Hollywood Reporter:
“Jesse Armstrong and HBO are officially ending the critically acclaimed drama with its upcoming fourth season.”
5. Titans (2018 TV series)
Summary:
“Titans,” pulling from the DC Comics superhero team Teen Titans, united a squad of young heroes with exceptional abilities. The series, known for its action-packed sequences and exploration of darker superhero themes, wrapped up a successful four-season run.
Cast: Anna Diop, Teagan Croft, Brenton Thwaites, Curran Walters, Ryan Potter, Conor Leslie, Minka Kelly, Alan Ritchson
When and Why is the Show Ending:
“Titans” wrapped up its era, concluding its journey with the latter half of its fourth season. Initially part of the now-defunct DC Universe, the series shifted to HBO Max, adding to the streaming platform’s diverse content. The decision to close the curtains on “Titans” and its companion series, “Doom Patrol,” signals a shift in the DC television landscape.
Quoting Alex Zalben from Decider:
“…the entire second half of Season 4 of Titans, airing on HBO Max, will be its last, and the same goes for Doom Patrol.”
Final Thoughts
As these English series take their final bows, viewers embark on a reflective journey, reminiscing about the joy, laughter, and emotional moments these shows provide. While farewells are never easy, the legacies of these series will endure in the hearts of their fans. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, with new stories and characters waiting in the wings, the closing chapters of these shows mark both an ending and a new beginning for the world of television.
