Paramount+ is following in the footsteps of Max, and is removing their least watched programming from their streaming service in exchange for a tax write off.
via: THR
The Paramount Global-backed streamer has canceled Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies after a single season, reversed its decision on a season-two pickup for the animated and kids-focused Star Trek: Prodigy, axed competition series Queen of the Universe after two seasons, and nixed a revival of The Game after two seasons. Additionally, all four shows will be removed from Paramount+ as the conglomerate joins Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery in taking tax write-offs for underperforming series. The news comes as Paramount+ will incorporate Showtime into the platform in the U.S. on Tuesday.
“In the unified Paramount+ with Showtime plan, the Showtime portfolio of edgy, critically acclaimed programming will complement the broad and popular Paramount+ library in a seamless offering that appeals to everyone, enables more discovery between the brands and builds overall viewership,” a Paramount+ spokesperson said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “As we prepare to combine Paramount+ and Showtime later this month in the U.S., we are refining our content offering to deliver the best streaming experience for subscribers. This is consistent with our content strategy since launch and across our business, which ensures we make smart, efficient choices, informed by audience data and insights. We are removing select programming as we look to optimize Showtime’s robust slate of premium originals.”
Other content is expected to be removed from the platform in the coming weeks, but nothing more high profile than the four series revealed Friday. The four series will begin to be removed from Paramount+ next week. The value of the tax write-off is expected to be revealed during an upcoming earnings call.
“The Paramount+ series Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies, Star Trek: Prodigy, Queen of the Universe and The Game have completed their runs on Paramount+ and will not be returning to the service,” a Paramount+ spokesperson said in a statement. “We want to extend our thanks to our tremendously talented cast and crew and our producing partners for their passionate work and dedication on these programs, and we wish them all the best on their future endeavors.”
I'm actually not surprised to hear these shows being canceled. The only show I watched was Queen of the Universe, and while I loved the first season, I thought season 2 and it's changes was a huge letdown. I haven't returned to watch the series after the first week.
Comments