Manifest: Netflix passes on picking up canceled series

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

This is going to sting fans of Manifest but, despite the best efforts to save the canceled missing plane drama with a resurrection at Netflix, "Deadline" reports that the streamer has opted not to order a fourth season of the show after NBC canceled it after three seasons.

Reportedly there were lengthy conversations and deliberations to make the move happen. Netflix seemed like the most viable option because the first two seasons were recently released on the platform and it has topped the streaming chart since its debut. It hasn't been revealed as to why Netflix passed but with this setback, Warner Bros. Television has concluded its efforts to find the show a new home. Complicating matters was that pursuing other outlets involved navigating digital rights and new cast options that have expired.

This is a frustrating outcome for the fans. The series had a six-season plan and ends prematurely after three seasons. That means there are unanswered questions and unresolved season 3 finale cliffhangers. When NBC canceled the series, creator Jeff Rake and the cast showed their support for the fans' #savemanifest campaign, which included multiple tweeting parties. Fans did make their voices heard on social media so it wasn't for a lack of trying on their part. I'm honestly surprised Netflix didn't save the series but I'm sure it came down to money and have space on the platform. That being said, it seems a little strange that has quickly topped the streaming chart since recently making its debut on the service wouldn't be strongly considered as a contender to become a Netflix original series like they did with Lucifer for its last three season after Fox canceled the show.

Manifest focuses on Montego Air Flight 828, which landed safely after a turbulent but routine flight. The crew and passengers are relieved to be safe but in the span of those few hours, the world had aged five years and their friends, families, and colleagues, after mourning their loss, had given up hope and moved on. Now, faced with the impossible, they're all given a second chance. But as their new realities become clear, a deeper mystery unfolds, and some of the returned passengers soon realize they might be meant for something greater than they ever thought possible. The series stars Josh Dallas, Jack Messina, Athena Karkanis, Melissa Roxburgh, JR Ramirez, Luna Blaise, Parveen Kaur, and Matt Long.

Do YOU think it was smart of Netflix to pass on picking up Manifest?