The Real Reason That ’90s Show Was Canceled By Netflix

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In 1998, the television series “That ’70s Show” debuted and swiftly turned into a cultural sensation. Its talented cast on the rise and its heartfelt reminiscence of an earlier time characterized by bell-bottoms and marijuana use captivated audiences. The show propelled stars like Ashton Kutcher, Topher Grace, and Wilmer Valderrama to fame, alongside other cast members. The plot centered around the camaraderie of high school friends and Eric (Topher Grace) and Donna’s (Laura Prepon) persistent romance.

When Netflix introduced a 2023 sequel to the beloved series called “That ‘90s Show,” fans of the original, which ran for eight seasons and 200 episodes until 2006, were filled with anticipation. In this new installment, Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith reprise their roles as Kitty and Red Forman. A group of less recognized actors was recruited to play the new characters (including Callie Haverda portraying granddaughter Leia Forman), in an attempt to recreate the magic. However, after only two abbreviated seasons and 26 episodes, “That ’90s Show” suffered a premature end due to low viewership.

firstly, the lead actor Danny Masterson, who portrayed Steven Hyde, was found guilty of rape in 2023 following a prolonged trial, which may have deterred some viewers. Secondly, the series heavily relied on appearances from original cast members during Season 1 but significantly reduced their presence in Season 2, hoping that the audience would continue to watch. Unfortunately, this strategy didn’t succeed, and “That ’90s Show” ended up as a largely overlooked chapter in the history of “That ’70s Show”.

Viewers just didn’t tune in to Season 2

Ultimately, “That ’90s Show” was axed due to low viewership during its second season. The show failed to make significant impact on Netflix’s Top 10 list compared to its successful debut, with a presence lasting only a short while. Although Danny Masterson’s situation may have played a role, it’s also possible that the decline in original cast members appearing in Season 2 took away some of the appeal and buzz generated by the first season.

Instead of Netflix officially cancelling the series, it was star Kurtwood Smith who announced on his Instagram in October 2024 that “That ’90s Show” had ended, expressing his appreciation for playing Grandpa Red and acknowledging the heart behind the show. As of April 2025, no news has surfaced about a potential revival.

It’s no surprise that “That ’70s Show” attempted to broaden its identity but met with failure on multiple occasions. For instance, the brief series “That ’80s Show,” which premiered in 2002, only managed to run for a single season before fading into obscurity. Unfortunately, it seems that “That ’90s Show” will join its predecessors in the dusty corners of TV history, as well.

Danny Masterson’s conviction didn’t directly contribute to cancelation

Throughout all eight seasons of “That ’70s Show”, Danny Masterson played the character Steven Hyde, known for his witty sarcasm, love for marijuana, iconic afro and sideburns, constant sunglasses, and suspicions about the government. However, in the spin-off series “That ’90s Show”, there was no sign of Hyde, not even a mention or appearance by him across its two seasons. This noticeable absence may have been because the actor was facing controversy during that time.

Approximately three months following the debut of “That ’90s Show” in January 2023, Masterson, a longtime follower of Scientology, faced trial and conviction for rape. After a lengthy probe that started in 2017, he was sentenced to serve between 30 years to life in prison. Despite this controversy potentially discouraging some viewers from watching the reboot, it wasn’t the primary factor behind its cancellation.

The debut season of “That ’90s Show,” featuring 10 episodes simultaneously launched on Netflix, followed the initial trial of Masterson in 2022 that ended with a deadlocked jury. Before the intense media coverage and subsequent conviction during his retrial, this gap in Masterson’s legal affairs may have contributed to the show’s initial success, as it tapped into nostalgia for “That ’70s Show.

It’s challenging to determine the impact of Danny Masterson’s 2023 conviction on the viewership of Season 2 of “That ’90s Show,” as there has been no public statement from Netflix or anyone connected to the show regarding this matter. However, in September 2023, it was disclosed that Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Kurtwood Smith, and Debra Jo Rupp wrote letters of support for Masterson before his sentencing, which seemed to be a decisive factor in the decision-making process for the revived sitcom.

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2025-04-19 21:30