Why Has 'Lost In Space' Been Cancelled?

Lost in Space will come to an end with its third season, which is being released on Netflix on Wednesday, December 1.

The sci-fi show is a remake of the 1965 series of the same name, and much like its predecessor follows the adventures of the Robinson family: Maureen (Molly Parker), John (Toby Stephens), Will (Maxwell Jenkins), Judy (Taylor Russell), and Penny (Mina Sundwall).

Despite only debuting in 2018, the show is already heading for its final voyage into space, which begs an important question—why is already over?

Why Was Lost in Space Cancelled?

In March 2020 it was revealed by Netflix that Lost in Space would be coming to an end after its third season.

When it first began Lost in Space was commended for its visuals, but it received just an average 68 percent score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

The second season fared better, with it instead receiving an 85 percent critic score and an audience score of 84 percent on the platform, but this improved rating was not enough to keep the show going past Season 3.

However, showrunner Zack Estrin, who is also executive producer for the series, said in a statement that it was always the plan to end the show after three seasons.

He explained: "From the beginning, we've always viewed this particular story of The Robinsons as a trilogy. A three-part epic family adventure with a clear beginning, middle and end.

"It's also worth noting that, with what these characters go through just trying to survive each episode, if anyone deserves to catch their breath before their next mission, it's Will, Penny, Judy, Maureen, John, Don West, Dr. Smith... and The Robot. And, of course, Debbie the Chicken."

Ted Biaselli, who is the Director of Original Series at Netflix, added: "We are so thrilled to share more adventures of The Robinson Family and see their journey through to what is sure to be an epic finale.

"We're especially thankful to Zack Estrin, Matt Sazama, Burk Sharpless, Kevin Burns and Jon Jashni for helming Lost in Space, which has brought viewers a premium action-packed and visually spectacular series that the whole family can enjoy together, and we can't wait for our family audiences to see where Season 3 will lead!"

What's Next?

While Estrin has said this is the end of Lost in Space, fans of his work will be happy to hear that he has signed a multi-year deal to make new shows exclusively for Netflix.

In his statement about the show's cancellation, the showrunner said: "While this chapter of Lost In Space is coming to a rousing conclusion, I'm excited about continuing to explore new stories with my friends at Netflix, and for all of the incredible possibilities that lie ahead."

Estrin has yet to announce which new projects he will be working on with the streaming service.

Lost in Space is released on Netflix on Wedensday, December 1.

Lost in Space
Molly Parker as Maureen Robinson, Toby Stephens as John Robinson in "Lost in Space" Season 3. Diyah Pera/Netflix

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