One day, someone is going to write an entire book about everything that went wrong with Netflix and Marvel’s big deal to bring The Defenders to life in a series of live-action streaming shows, but until that happens all we have to go on are short quotes from Netflix earning interviews. On that note, the company’s Q2 earnings report suggests that despite the imminent launch of Disney’s rival streaming service, the Netflix/Marvel universe isn’t going anywhere. Could that mean Punisher Season 2, Luke Cage Season 3 or even Defenders Season 2? Don’t rule it out, for now at least.
The news came from Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Ted Sarandos, who’s probably better equipped to discuss the future of the Netflix/Marvel universe than anyone else (besides maybe CEO Reed Hastings). Responding to a question about the future of those shows, Sarandos offered a reassuring, if blunt, response.
“Those shows are for us to cancel,” he said, “and we’re super happy with their performance so far.”
Based on Sarandos’ statement, it sounds like Netflix may have designed its contract with Marvel to give the streaming giant final say over what happens to these characters. Then again, maybe we’re reading a little to far into that quote. But for now, it definitely seems like those Netflix/Marvel shows aren’t going anywhere — well, except for Iron Fist.
Over the weekend, Netflix announced the first ever cancellation for one of its Marvel live-action shows. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, the company added that while Iron Fist won’t get a third season, the character could return in some capacity.
“While the series on Netflix has ended, the immortal Iron Fist will live on,” the company said.
This follows a some slightly less clear news on the possibility for The Defenders Season 2. Back in September, Netflix renamed its Defenders Facebook page “NX” (the branding for a series of social media accounts created to promote sci-fi, superheroes, and other geeky Netflix content). There was no official announcement that The Defenders was done, but it’s not exactly a good sign either.
As for the rest of the heroes that make up this universe, it certainly seems like nothing is off the table. There’s no reason to believe we won’t get more Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, Daredevil, and even the Punisher. Then again, once Disney finally launches its rival service, who knows what will really happen.
Daredevil Season 3 launches October 19. After that, who knows?
