Just a week after canceling "Iron Fist," Netflix has announced that they have canceled "Luke Cage." Deadline reported that "Luke Cage" will not be returning for a third season. Marvel and Netflix released a statement together thanking the showrunner, cast, crew, writers, and fans.
The cancelation came at a surprise to many, as it was expected to renew for another season. Unlike "Iron Fist," Luke Cage appears to be gone for good and will not make cameos in other Marvel shows. "Luke Cage," had been one of the better Marvel shows, while "Iron Fist," was a let-down for many.
'Luke Cage' appears to be finished and not just demoted to minor appearances
It appears that "Iron Fist," may just be moving over to Disney's upcoming streaming service, alongside shows featuring Loki and the Scarlet Witch.
However, Luke Cage does not appear to be making a second-home on the Disney platform. Netflix/Marvel Television had a writing room but stalled by "rising tensions over the past few months," as well as "creative differences" over scripts. However, drafts for multiple episodes of the planned third season were delivered to Marvel and Netflix a few days ago. Marvel previously said that Iron Fist could make cameo appearances in the remaining Marvel shows.
The split between Netflix and Marvel is not a surprise to many.
Disney, after all, is getting ready to launch their own streaming service, rivaling Netflix and has already developed their own catalogue of original content. The Verge reported that Disney has already confirmed that they would end their current distribution deal with Netflix. Netflix has been working at keeping the rights to the Star Wars and Marvel franchises, but they appear to be slowly migrating over to Disney's platform.
Marvel shows continue to face a revolving door of showrunners
Netflix's Marvel shows have seen multiple showrunners for every show and almost every season. There have been different showrunners for each season of "Daredevil," and Raven Metzner led "Iron Fist," until its cancelation. "Jessica Jones," will now be looking for a new showrunner following the third season, as Melissa Rosenberg is heading off for a new gig with WBTV.
As Luke Cage waves goodbye, the number of Marvel shows on Netflix have fallen to only "Daredevil," "Jessica Jones," and "The Punisher. Two of these shows have been renewed for additional seasons.
"Daredevil" has not received word on another season. Disney, which owns Marvel recently reached a deal with Fox, appears to be looking to cut ties from Netflix. Now it appears very possible that "Daredevil" or "Jessica Jones," could be next on the chopping block.
