When Netflix cancels a show, it’s the absolute worst. It’s frustrating, it’s heartbreaking, and for fans, it feels personal. But then, sometimes, the signs are there even if you don’t want to admit it.
Perhaps there wasn’t much buzz around the show when it was released, or maybe it received really bad reviews. Deep down, there’s a creeping sense that the end might be near. Then, Netflix makes the big announcement.
Today, the streaming giant has announced the first two cancellations of 2026. Are we in any way surprised by these axings? Not at all.
Netflix cancels The Abandons
One of the first Netflix series to get the axe this year is The Abandons, a brand-new show that only premiered in December 2025. It’s a Western action drama series starring Lena Headey and Gillian Anderson. While Netflix hasn’t officially come out and revealed the reason for its cancellation, it’s clear that the show struggled to maintain momentum after its initial release.
According to Deadline, The Abandons accumulated 19.8 million views in the first 28 days after its Dec. 4 premiere. It debuted strong, hitting No. 4 in the Top 10 for two weeks with 7.4M and 7.6M views, but then quickly dropped off. In the next 17 days, it only got another 4.8M views. On top of that, it garnered a mixed critical reception. It’s even currently holding a 30% Tomatometer score and a 52% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. So, its cancellation does not come as a surprise.
Set in the 1850s, Fiona Nolan, a religious Irish woman, and her chosen family of four adult orphans struggle to keep their farm in Angel’s Ridge, Washington Territory, from the conniving silver mine owner Constance Van Ness, who is determined to take it for herself.
Netflix cancels The Vince Staples Show
The Vince Staples Show has gotten the boot from Netflix as well after just two seasons. While the first installment was well received by critics and regular viewers alike, the series struggled to attract a larger audience for the second season. The Vince Staples Show season 2, which dropped in November 2025, only amassed 1.7 million views following its premiere. This is a sharp decline from the 4.6 million views the first season garnered over a longer period. Again, viewership looks to be the culprit.
Created by Vince Staples, Ian Edelman, and Maurice Williams, this short-lived comedy series followed a fictionalized version of Staples as he navigated the absurd, hilarious, and sometimes downright chaotic twists of everyday life. From getting caught up in strange misadventures with his friends and family to dealing with bizarre encounters that only seemed to happen to him, the show turned ordinary situations into comedic gold.
Unfortunately, there will likely be many more cancellations throughout the year. This is only the beginning, so brace yourself. We’ll get back to you with updates as Netflix makes more announcements, so stay tuned to Netflix Life!
