Netflix has decided to cancel musical drama series The Get Down after one season.
Created by director Baz Luhrmann and playwright Stephen Adly Guirgis, the show explores the birth of hip-hop in the 1970’s and stars Justice Smith, Shameik Moore and Jaden Smith in central roles.
However, Netflix has decided not to proceed with a second season, making it one of the company’s only original projects not to be greenlit for further episodes.
The Get Down marked Moulin Rouge! helmer Luhrmann’s first foray into television, and he served as a showrunner on the first 12 episodes. However, the director indicated in a message posted on Facebook on Thursday (25May17) that a key reason for the cancellation was his inability to commit to season two full-time, due to other film projects.
“When I was asked to come to the center of The Get Down to help realize it, I had to defer a film directing commitment for at least two years. This exclusivity has understandably become a sticking point for Netflix and Sony, who have been tremendous partners and supporters of the show,” he wrote.
“It kills me that I can’t split myself into two and make myself available to both productions.”
In addition, Luhrmann also shared how grateful he was to work with the cast and crew of The Get Down, especially the young talent. He also noted the influence of the forefathers of hip-hop on the program, including the likes of Grandmaster Flash, Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Caz, as well as rapper Nas.
“I feel so deeply connected to all those who I have worked and collaborated with on this remarkable experience,” he stated.
The Get Down has been among Netflix’s most expensive shows, with the 12-episode first season reportedly costing approximately $120 million.
