Just when you thought the TV show massacre had ended, one more fan-favorite has been cancelled. After two seasons, WGN America has decided to cancel Underground.
The critically acclaimed drama followed slaves escaping to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Underground received much praise and was the No. 1 most-discussed cable drama on social media each night it aired during its 10-episode second season.
Tribune Media President and CEO Peter Kern made the announcement Tuesday (May 30) in a statement. He said in part:
“Despite ‘Underground’ being a terrific and important series, it no longer fits with our new direction and we have reached the difficult decision not to renew it for a third season.
We are tremendously proud of this landmark series that captured the zeitgeist and made an impact on television in a way never before seen on the medium.”
Underground staff and fans waited with bated breath for weeks as cancellation talks loomed due to Tribune recently being acquired by Sinclair Broadcasting Group. The new owners expressed plans to move WGN America into a “new direction,” focusing on conservative programing and potentially hiring Fox News Channel talent for news programs.
The drama starred Jurnee Smollett-Bell and Aldis Hodge and John Legend served as an executive producer. Producers are currently pitching the show to other networks including, BET, Hulu, and OWN. However, the show’s big budget may hinder discussions.
WGN America has been bought and is going a different direction strategically. We will find a new home for #Underground! https://t.co/xY47THI1Yl
— John Legend (@johnlegend) May 30, 2017
In preparation of the Sinclair deal, WGN America cancelled its only other original scripted show, Outsiders, back in April. The show was also the network’s highest-rated program.
