Although streaming services like Netflix have changed the game when it comes to many aspects of making television shows, one thing that remains the same is that series’ futures are still at the whim of executives. That means that your favorites can be cancelled and disappear just as quickly as they came, without so much as a warning, regardless of their quality.
That’s seemingly the case with one Netflix show, with reports suggesting that the star-studded series “Starting 5” has been axed by the streaming giant.
Netflix Reportedly Cancels ‘Starting 5’
According to Sports Business Journal, Netflix has decided to shelve “Starting 5” after two seasons. The NBA-focused documentary series, which tracks five star players across an entire season, is often packed with celebrity cameos and its cancellation is something of a surprise. Of course, Netflix has not yet confirmed that the show won’t be coming back but the SBJ cites numerous sources confirming the news.
The SBJ reports that Netflix has not released internal data about the second season of the show but indications from the first season were that it was significantly behind the streamer’s other high-profile sports documentary series “Quarterback.” The outlet also noted that third-party numbers were also not looking good.
The first season of “Starting 5” tracked the action of LeBron James of the Lakers, Domantas Sabonis of the Kings, Jimmy Butler of the Warriors, Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves, and Jayson Taytum of the Celtics. The second season charted the seasons of Kevin Durant of the Rockets, James Harden of the Clippers, and Jaylen Brown of the Celtics, along with NBA Finals participants Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder.
Netflix is Also Losing Two Popular Long-Running Sitcoms
“Starting 5” is not the only show that viewers will be saying goodbye to on Netflix. Earlier this week, the service revealed that both “Friends” and “The Big Bang Theory” are leaving Netflix in the near future.
Those watching in the United Kingdom only have until December 31, 2025 to watch both iconic sitcoms, while those in Germany, Italy, South Africa, and Switzerland will lose access on December 30.
This follows their previous departure from Netflix in the United States, where both are now available to watch on HBO Max. Both sitcoms will find homes on the newly launched HBO Max service in the European countries after the licensing agreements come to an end.
