40+ Actors Who Left or Were Fired From a Movie or TV Show — Right Before it Became a Massive Hit

These Celebrities Left Just Before Their Project Made it Big

For many aspiring actors in Hollywood, making it big is the ultimate goal. However, that dream can turn sour for some when they are let go from a project that later becomes a massive hit. Actors can also depart due to creative differences or personal issues, amongst other reasons. In this list, we’ll explore the stories of 40+ actors who left or were fired from a movie or TV show just before it became a runaway success. These are the tales of missed opportunities, what-ifs, and the unpredictable twists of fate that can shape a showbiz career.

Jason Priestley in Beverly Hills, 90210

Jason Priestley, born in Vancouver, British Columbia, began acting in the early ’80s, appearing in Canadian television shows like Danger Bay and 21 Jump Street. He later moved to the United States, where he continued to build his career in Hollywood.

Jason Priestley in Beverly Hills, 90210

Priestley’s turn as Brandon Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210 was a defining moment in his career, catapulting him to global stardom and solidifying his status as a teen idol. Priestley’s portrayal of Walsh was widely beloved, and he played the character for nine seasons before departing from the show in 1998.

Jason Priestley Now

After leaving the show, Priestley continued acting in various TV shows and films while directing and producing. Beverly Hills, 90210 continued to thrive, inspiring spin-offs and reboots, including the 2019 reboot featuring the original cast.

Jason Priestley Now

Despite its ups and downs, the show has remained a cultural touchstone and a testament to the enduring appeal of teen dramas and nostalgia.

Katherine Heigl in Grey’s Anatomy

Born in Washington, D.C., Katherine Heigl began her career as a child model before transitioning into acting. She first gained attention for her roles in the films Knocked Up and 27 Dresses, but her portrayal of Dr. Isobel “Izzie” Stevens on Grey’s Anatomy solidified her status as a Hollywood star.

Katherine Heigl in Grey’s Anatomy

Heigl’s performance earned her critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award, and her character’s tumultuous relationship with Dr. Alex Karev became the show’s central storyline. Grey’s Anatomy remains one of television’s most beloved and longest-running medical dramas.

Katherine Heigl Now

After leaving Grey’s Anatomy, Katherine Heigl starred in successful films such as The Killers, One for the Money, and The Nut Job. However, her film career slowed in the mid-2010s, and she returned to TV in the political drama State of Affairs and the legal drama Doubt.

Katherine Heigl Now

Grey’s Anatomy continued to thrive despite Heigl’s departure, introducing new characters and storylines to tackle various social and medical issues. The show remains a beloved pastime for many people, standing as a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

Brian Dunkleman in American Idol

Brian Dunkleman is an American comedian and actor who co-hosted the first season of the popular singing competition show American Idol alongside Ryan Seacrest. Dunkleman started his career in stand-up comedy, performing at various clubs and events.

Brian Dunkleman in American Idol

American Idol, which premiered in 2002, became a cultural phenomenon, featuring talented singers from across the United States competing for a record deal. Dunkleman left the show after its first season and pursued other opportunities in entertainment.

Brian Dunkleman Now

After co-hosting the first season of the popular singing competition alongside Ryan Seacrest, Brian Dunkleman left the show for personal reasons. Some have suggested that Dunkleman regretted leaving the show, while others claimed he was fired due to disagreements with the producers.

Brian Dunkleman Now

He subsequently returned to stand-up comedy and voice acting. Meanwhile, American Idol continued to enjoy immense success, running for 18 seasons and spawning several spin-offs. The show helped launch the careers of numerous singers, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Adam Lambert.

Lecy Goranson in Roseanne

Lacy Goranson played Becky on Roseanne from 1988 to 1996 and then briefly reprised it in the show’s 10th-season revival in 2018. During her absence, the character of Becky was played by Sarah Chalke.

Lecy Goranson in Roseanne

Goranson also appeared in several other television shows, including Sex and the City, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Inside Amy Schumer. She has also worked in theater, performing in various productions in New York City.

Lecy Goranson Now

Goranson eventually returned to the show in its 10th season, which aired in 2018, to reprise her role as Becky Conner. Her return was met with excitement from fans who had grown up watching her on the show.

Lecy Goranson Now

Despite some controversy surrounding the revival season, it was generally well-received, and Goranson’s return added an extra layer of nostalgia for longtime viewers. Roseanne may have ended, but its impact on pop culture and television history will be remembered for years.

Lisa Bonet in A Different World

Lisa Bonet is an American actress known for her role as Denise Huxtable in The Cosby Show and its spin-off, A Different World. Despite her eagerness to play the character, Bonet left the show after the first season to start a family.

Lisa Bonet in A Different World

Lisa Bonet’s departure from A Different World allowed other talented actors and actresses to join the cast, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, and Cree Summer. A Different World became an iconic sitcom of the late 1980s and early 1990s, running for five more successful seasons.

Lisa Bonet Now

The show continued without her and ran for six seasons, becoming a beloved sitcom. After leaving A Different World, Lisa Bonet made a few notable appearances on television, including her role in the critically acclaimed miniseries, The Red Road.

Lisa Bonet Now

In recent years, she’s also been involved in activism and is known for supporting various social and environmental causes. Her return to the spotlight has been met with enthusiasm from fans, who have eagerly followed her career and continued celebrating her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Shelley Long in Cheers

Shelley Long is an American actress and comedian who gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Diane Chambers in the iconic sitcom Cheers. Her memorable performance helped make the show a critical and commercial success.

Shelley Long in Cheers

Long began her acting career in the 1970s with roles in TV shows and movies, but her role in Cheers solidified her status as a leading actress. However, after five seasons, Long left the show to pursue other opportunities and was replaced by Kirstie Alley.

Shelley Long Now

Long’s departure from Cheers was a significant event for show fans, with many lamenting her character’s loss. However, she continued to work in the industry, appearing in films such as Troop Beverly Hills and The Brady Bunch Movie.

Shelley Long Now

Long also returned to television with recurring roles in shows like Modern Family and Carol’s Second Act. Despite her success outside of Cheers, Long will always be remembered as one of the key players in the show’s early success.

Christopher Meloni in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Christopher Meloni is an actor known for his role as Detective Elliot Stabler on the TV series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. He has also appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including Oz, True Blood, and Man of Steel.

Christopher Meloni, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Law & Order: SVU premiered in 1999 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, highlighting critical social issues. Meloni’s portrayal of Stabler is one of his most iconic performances.

Christopher Meloni Now

After Christopher Meloni departed from Law & Order: SVU, the show continued without him and has remained popular, with over 20 seasons. Meloni went on to star in other projects, including the HBO series Oz and the comedy film Wet Hot American Summer.

Christopher Meloni Now

In 2021, Meloni reprised his role as Detective Stabler in the spin-off series Law & Order: Organized Crime, which has received positive reviews from audiences and critics.

Topher Grace in That ’70s Show

Topher Grace is an actor best known for his role as Eric Forman in the hit television series That ’70s Show. He played the character for seven seasons, earning critical acclaim for his performance.

Topher Grace in That ’70s Show

After leaving the show, Grace starred in several films, including Spider-Man 3, In Good Company, and Interstellar. That ’70s Show continued for one more season without Grace, but its ratings declined, and it was ultimately canceled. Despite this, the show remains a beloved cult classic among fans.

Topher Grace Now

After Topher Grace left That70s Show in 2005, the show continued for one more season with a new lead character. Grace went on to act in movies such as Spider-Man 3 and also had a recurring role in the series The Hot Zone.

Topher Grace Now

He also transitioned into producing, with credits on films like Take Me Home Tonight and the acclaimed series Home Economics. Despite mixed reviews, Grace’s performances in films were generally well-received, and he continued to work steadily in Hollywood.

Mischa Barton in the OC

Mischa Barton is a British-American actress known for her role as Marissa Cooper on the teen drama series The OC. Barton’s character was a central figure on the show, and her departure at the end of the third season was a major shock to fans.

Mischa Barton in The OC

Before The OC, Barton appeared in films such as Notting Hill and The Sixth Sense. After leaving the show, she acted in film and television, including a stint on Dancing With the Stars.

Mischa Barton Now

After Mischa Barton departed from The OC, the show continued for one more season before ending. The actress continued to work in film and television, appearing in projects such as The Beautiful Life and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Mischa Barton Now

The OC, on the other hand, remains a beloved teen drama of the early 2000s and has achieved cult status in the years since its original airing.

Pamela Anderson in Baywatch

Pamela Anderson is a Canadian-American actress, model, and television personality known for her iconic role as C.J. Parker in the television series Baywatch.

Pamela Anderson in Baywatch

The show, which aired from 1989 to 2001, followed the lives of lifeguards patrolling the beaches of Los Angeles. Anderson’s performance allowed her to showcase her physical and comedic abilities.

Pamela Anderson Now

After Pamela Anderson departed from Baywatch, she pursued a successful acting and modeling career, appearing in various films and television shows.

Pamela Anderson Now

Meanwhile, Baywatch continued without her but struggled to maintain its popularity and was eventually canceled after its 11th season. However, the show remains an iconic part of popular culture and has gained a cult following in recent years, even getting a reboot film with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Selma Blair in Anger Management

Selma Blair is an actress best known for her role as Kris Jenner in the FX series American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson and her work in films like Legally Blonde and Hellboy.

Selma Blair in Anger Management

She also played a vital role in the FX series Anger Management, starring alongside Charlie Sheen. Blair left the show in 2013 due to reported conflicts with Sheen, and the show ended its run in 2014 after two seasons.

Selma Blair Now

Selma Blair left Anger Management in 2013 after falling out with the show’s star, Charlie Sheen. The show continued for two more seasons without Blair’s character but was ultimately canceled in 2014 after its 100th episode.

Selma Blair Now

Blair has since continued to act in various films and TV shows. Blair has also been vocal about her struggles with multiple sclerosis and how it has affected her acting career. Despite her health challenges, she has continued to work in the industry and advocate for awareness and support for those with the disease.

George Lazenby in James Bond

George Lazenby, an Australian actor and model, achieved worldwide fame for portraying James Bond in the 1969 film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Lazenby’s desire to play the legendary character stemmed from his confidence in his acting abilities despite only appearing in one Bond film.

George Lazenby in James Bond

After leaving the Bond franchise, Lazenby continued to act in various movies and TV shows but never achieved the same level of success as he did with On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

George Lazenby Now

George Lazenby played James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service but declined to return for future films. The franchise continued with Sean Connery and later Roger Moore, becoming a pop culture phenomenon.

George Lazenby Now

Lazenby’s departure from the franchise has been widely debated among Bond fans and critics, with some speculating that he could have had a successful run as the iconic character. Despite his limited time as Bond, Lazenby remains a beloved figure among franchise fans and has continued to act in various films and TV shows.

Marcus Chong in the Matrix

Marcus Chong is an American actor known for his role as Tank in the 1999 sci-fi film, The Matrix. Before The Matrix, Chong appeared in several movies and TV shows, including The Crow, Panther, and Street Justice.

Marcus Chong in The Matrix

He was motivated to audition for The Matrix because he admired the script’s groundbreaking storyline and impressive visual effects. Despite his success in The Matrix, Chong’s acting career was derailed by legal battles with producers.

Marcus Chong Now

Marcus Chong didn’t return for the sequels of The Matrix due to a dispute with the filmmakers over his salary. The franchise continued with two extremely successful sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, alongside its more recent sequels.

Marcus Chong Now

Chong continued to act in other films and TV shows but didn’t achieve the same level of fame as he did with his role in The Matrix.

Stuart Townsend in The Lord of the Rings

Townsend is an Irish actor and director who has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Queen of the Damned and XIII: The Series.

Stuart Townsend in The Lord of the Rings

Stuart Townsend was originally cast as Aragorn in the highly anticipated film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. However, after four days of filming, director Peter Jackson decided that Townsend was too young for the role and replaced him with Viggo Mortensen.

Stuart Townsend Now

Townsend had envisioned the character differently than director Peter Jackson, who wanted a more traditional, rugged portrayal. Viggo Mortensen took over the role, and the film became a massive success, winning Oscars and cementing itself as a beloved classic in the fantasy genre.

Stuart Townsend Now

Despite this setback, Townsend continued to act in various film and TV projects, while The Lord of the Rings trilogy became a critically acclaimed and commercially successful franchise.

Terrence Howard in Iron Man

Terrence Howard is an actor known for his roles in films such as Hustle & Flow and Crash. He portrayed the character of James Rhodes in the 2008 Marvel film Iron Man.

Terrence Howard in Iron Man

However, Howard was replaced by Don Cheadle for the sequels, reportedly due to a contract dispute with Marvel. The film became a huge success and launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Howard’s character being recast and appearing in later films.

Terrence Howard Now

The movie franchise continued to gain popularity after Howard’s departure, with Don Cheadle’s performance as Rhodes also receiving positive reviews from fans and critics alike.

Terrence Howard Now

The franchise became a massive success, with multiple sequels and spin-offs. Howard continued to act in various film and TV projects, including Empire and the upcoming miniseries Triumph, while expressing regret over his departure from the Iron Man franchise.

Lacey Chabert in Family Guy

Lacey Chabert is an actress best known for her role as Claudia Salinger in the popular TV drama Party of Five and as Gretchen Wieners in the comedy film Mean Girls. She began acting as a child actress and had various roles in TV shows and movies before landing her breakout roles.

Lacey Chabert in Family Guy

Before landing her role in Party of Five, Chabert lent her voice to Meg Griffin on Family Guys. However, due to still being in school and scheduling issues with Party of Five, she left the show after just one season. She was replaced by Mila Kunis, who has done a fantastic job voicing the character over the years.

Lacey Chabert Now

Family Guy is still running to this day and is still extremely popular. Lacey Chabert hasn’t been forgotten on the show either, as the long-running animated series often jokes and references the change in voice actresses.

Lacey Chabert Now

Chabert has since continued to work in various TV shows and films. She’s also lent her voice to various other animated shows and movies, including The Wild Thornberrys and The Spectacular Spider-Man.

Ed Skrein in Game of Thrones

Ed Skrein is an English actor and rapper who played the character of Daario Naharis in the third season of HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Before this, he had appeared in several British TV shows and movies, including the action film The Transporter Refueled.

Ed Skrein in Game of Thrones

Based on the book series by George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones follows various noble families in their quest for power in a medieval fantasy world filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and warfare.

Ed Skrein Now

Ed Skrein left Game of Thrones after only one season and was replaced by Michiel Huisman as Daario Naharis. The show continued for several more seasons and became a cultural phenomenon with an enormous worldwide fan base.

Ed Skrein Now

Since leaving the show, Skrein has continued to act in various films and TV shows, including the action-thriller movie Deadpool and the war film Midway.

Samantha Morton in Her

Samantha Morton is an English actress known for her powerful and nuanced performances in film and television. In 2013, she starred in the science-fiction romance film Her, directed by Spike Jonze. The film follows a man who falls in love with a virtual assistant operating system voiced by Scarlett Johansson.

Samantha Morton in Her

Morton provided the motion capture performance for the operating system’s movements and was later replaced by Johansson’s voice in post-production.

Samantha Morton Now

Johansson’s performance received critical acclaim and helped to boost her career further. Her went on to become a critical and commercial success. The film continues to be widely regarded as a modern classic.

Samantha Morton Now

After the film’s release, Morton continued to act in various movies and TV shows. At the same time, Her received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

Julianne Moore in Can You Ever Forgive Me

Julianne Moore is an actress and author known for her powerful performances in independent and mainstream films. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in Still Alice.

Julianne Moore in Can You Ever Forgive Me

In Can You Ever Forgive Me, a biographical film based on the memoir of author Lee Israel, Moore plays a small but significant role as a sympathetic bookstore owner. The film was critically acclaimed and received multiple nominations at various award shows.

Julianne Moore Now

Julianne Moore claimed she was initially supposed to play the lead role but was denied due to creative differences. The film successfully ran, receiving critical acclaim and nominations at various award ceremonies.

Julianne Moore Now

Julianne Moore continues to act in multiple films and TV shows and is known for her acclaimed performances in movies such as Still Alice, The Kids Are All Right, and Boogie Nights.

Edward Norton in the Avengers Franchise

Edward Norton played the role of Bruce Banner, aka the Hulk, in the 2008 film The Incredible Hulk, which, although coming out around the same time as Iron Man, is technically considered a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Edward Norton in Avengers Franchise

Norton is a well-known actor with a successful career spanning decades, with notable performances in films such as Fight Club and American History X. However, he didn’t continue in the role for the subsequent Avengers films, which starred Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk.

Edward Norton Now

The role was recast with Mark Ruffalo, who went on to play the character in many subsequent Marvel Cinematic Universe films, including the Avengers franchise. The franchise was highly successful, with several more movies and spin-offs released recently.

Edward Norton Now

Norton’s departure was reportedly due to creative differences with the film’s producers. After Norton’s exit, Ruffalo took over the role of the Hulk and has since become a beloved member of the Avengers team.

Eric Stoltz in Back to the Future

Eric Stoltz is an actor and film director known for his work in films like Pulp Fiction, Little Women, and Mask, for which he received critical acclaim. Back to the Future is a famous science-fiction film in which Stoltz was initially cast as the lead role of Marty McFly.

Eric Stoltz in Back to the Future

The film became a huge success, spawning two sequels, and is widely considered a cultural milestone in cinema history.

Eric Stoltz Now

However, Eric Soltz was fired from the movie after several weeks of shooting due to creative differences with the director. He was replaced by Michael J. Fox, who went on to become synonymous with the iconic character of Marty McFly.

Eric Stoltz Now

Meanwhile, Stoltz continued to work as an actor and director, appearing in films like Jerry Maguire and directing episodes of famous TV shows like Glee.

Chad Michael Murray in One Tree Hill

Chad Michael Murray is an actor, model, and writer known for his role as Lucas Scott in the popular drama series One Tree Hill. The show follows a group of high school friends in Tree Hill, North Carolina, navigating the challenges of growing up and pursuing their dreams.

Chad Michael Murray — One Tree Hill

Murray’s portrayal of Lucas earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. He also appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Freaky Friday and Riverdale.

Chad Michael Murray Now

Chad Michael Murray played a lead role in six seasons of One Tree Hill before leaving in 2009. After his departure, he continued to work in film and television, appearing in movies like Fruitvale Station and TV shows like Agent Carter.

Chad Michael Murray Now

One Tree Hill continued for three more seasons without Murray as a series regular. The show’s focus shifted to other characters, and new ones were introduced. Despite losing Murray, the teen drama remained popular until its conclusion in 2012.

Taylor Momsen in Gossip Girl

Taylor Momsen is an actress, musician, and model best known for her role as Jenny Humphrey in the hit TV series Gossip Girl. Before the show, Momsen had acted in various films and TV shows, including Spy Kids 2 and Hansel and Gretel.

Taylor Momsen in Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl revolves around the lives of wealthy teenagers living in the Upper East Side of New York City and their various scandals, romances, and intrigues.

Taylor Momsen Now

After leaving Gossip Girl in 2011, Taylor Momsen decided to pursue her music career as the lead singer of the rock band The Pretty Reckless.

Taylor Momsen Now

The show continued for two more seasons before ending in 2012 and became a cultural phenomenon that solidified the careers of its ensemble cast. In recent years, Momsen has continued to focus on music and has released several successful albums with her band.

20+ Shows Netflix Have Confirmed They Are Renewing

Certain Netflix shows have become an inevitable part of our lives. These shows, through their universe and wonderful characters, have managed to permeate into our daily life by bringing us unparalleled entertainment. Shows like The Witcher and Emily in Paris feel like home in many ways. While the fate of many Netflix shows remains unknown, here is a list of shows that the popular streamer itself has officially confirmed for another run.

The Witcher

Starring Henry Cavill, Anya Chalotra, and Freya Alla, The Witcher tells the story of Witcher Geralt, a mutated monster hunter, who struggles to find his place in a world where people are wickeder than beasts.

The Witcher

Though season 2 is yet to get an official release date; it is expected to have a late 2021 release. The series that enjoys a low tradeoff vis-a-vis its fans and critics (the fans score it on a high value as compared to critics), will be having its first virtual Witcher Con this year.

Gentefied

A love letter to Latinx culture, Gentefied is a tale of Morales cousins on a mission to save their grandfather’s taco shop while they try to pursue their dreams. As the title suggests, the show touches upon their neighborhood’s gentrification at length.

Gentefied

In 2020, Netflix confirmed they would be renewing Gentefied for a second season. Though Gentefied is yet to get a release date, it has begun filming this year. The series is equally liked by its fans and critics.

Cobra Kai

A sequel to Karate Kid films, Netflix’s Cobra Kai is about the enmity between Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso. The martial arts dramedy was renewed by Netflix owing to its huge popularity. As of May, the series has finished the filming for its upcoming (fourth) season and is all set for a release soon.

Cobra Kai

Cobra Kai has time and again faced criticism for being too white-washed, showcasing inaccurate casting, and having a lack of Asian representation in its principal cast.

Bridgerton

Renewed for three seasons straightaway, Netflix’s regencycore drama Bridgerton follows the tale of eight siblings of the prestigious Bridgerton family as they chase their happy endings. Based on Julia Quinn’s book series, this Shonda Rhimes’ production is also getting a limited prequel on the life of young Queen Charlotte.

Bridgerton

Bridgerton has been hailed by critics and audiences alike for its impeccable casting and its portrayal of intimate scenes through a feminist lens. Season 2 is expected to go on air by mid-2022.

The Umbrella Academy

Based on Gerard Way’s comic books, The Umbrella Academy (TUA) follows the story of how estranged siblings regroup after their father passes away, only to discover their superpowers, hidden family secrets, and an impending threat to humanity.

The Umbrella Academy

Netflix renewed TUA for the third season in November 2020. TUA’s past seasons have managed to generate positive feedback both from the critics and the fans. Its new season is expected to go on air by early 2022.

Dark Desire

A thriller, Dark Desire tells the tale of married Alma, whose world turns upside down after she gives in to her passion. Her move results in tragic repercussions for her and those around her. Dark Desire went on to become one of the most-watched non-English Netflix titles upon its release.

Dark Desire

Renewed for a second season last year, Dark Desire is expected to have a late 2021 release since it only just begun filming for the renewed season.

Emily in Paris

Released in 2020, Emily in Paris follows the adventures or rather mis-adventures of American-origin Emily as she navigates through her new office, relationships, and love life in Paris. EiP became one of the most-watched Netflixcomedies in 2020 in no time leading to its renewal.

Emily in Paris

While the show is loved by its fans, it is heavily scrutinized by the critics for Emily’s dressing sense, over-simplification of the story, and a stereotypical portrayal of Parisian culture. The show returns by late 2021.

Never Have I Ever

Created by Mindy Kaling, Never Have I Ever is a coming-of-age comedy starring Maitreyi Ramakrishnan in the lead. Maitreyi, who plays Devi in the show, is an Indian American teenager trying to find her footing as she deals with the grief of her father’s demise.

Never Have I Ever

The show is returning for a sophomore season on July 15. Labeled as formulaic and accused of playing South Asian tropes by the critics, it is nonetheless loved by its fans.

Valeria

Based on En Los Zapatos de Valeria by Elisabet Benavent, Valeria follows the life of Valeria as she traverses through her creative and marital dead-ends with the help of her friends. Set in Madrid, Spain, the series has been renewed by Netflix for a second season.

Valeria

The series that opened to great reviews from the fans and critics is often praised for the strong female cast, bang-on depiction of urban life, and some drool-worthy costumes. Valeria will return by late 2021.

Love is Blind

A part social experiment/part reality show, Love is Blind follows a group of singletons looking for love. The only catch here is the contestants get engaged before meeting in person. The show, which debuted in 2020, has been criticized for being toxic on many accounts.

Love is Blind

But, it has been loved by the fans leading to its renewal for the second run. As of now, the reality series might see a next year release as it hasn’t begun filming yet.

You

A psychological thriller that debuted originally on Lifetime, You is the story of a fixated man who ingratiates himself in the lives of the ones he is obsessed with. The popularity of the series led Netflix to order its third installment, due for a release in the last quarter of 2021.

You

The series is criticized for glamorizing the themes of stalking, manipulation, and other transgressions. Irrespective of the negative chatter around it, the series is adored by many.

Ginny & Georgia

Compared to Gilmore Girls (also available on Netflix), Ginny & Georgia tells the story of a mom-teenager duo and how they reconcile with their present and a turbulent past. Liked by fans and critics, Ginny & Georgia is often considered a genre-defying show by critics and fans.

Ginny & Georgia

It has been also labeled as ‘shows within a show.’ The show is slated for return for a second season possibly sometime early next year. To quote from the show, ‘Life won’t throw you parties. You gotta make your own.’

The Circle

Not to be confused with the movie of the same name, The Circle is a reality competitive series that involves choosing oneself or other contestants while keeping an eye on the prize money. The title of the show refers to the custom social media platform its players use on the show.

The Circle

Renewed for a third season (to go on air by early 2022), The Circle is hailed as smart, relaxing, funny and a must-watch series that the streamer has come up with in recent times.

Elite

Spanish series Elite explores the clashes between a working-class teenager minority and the wealthy students of an exclusive private school. Owing to a thunderous reception from critics and fans, Elite was renewed for Season 4 (released this June) and Season 5 (to be released next year.)

Elite

Following a multi-linear narrative, the series has been lauded for its sensitive portrayal of mature themes. However, it has also been in the news for casting adult actors in teenage roles.

Shadow & Bone

A fantasy series that follows an orphaned cartographer Alina, Shadow & Bone is a tale of how she becomes aware of her miraculous power. Based on the books set in Grishaverse, Shadow & Bone was renewed for a second season, two months after it premiered on Netflix.

Shadow & Bone

It has also been commended for breaking away from the original material. The show has its aftershow Shadow & Bone – The Afterparty too. As of now, its Season 2 is yet to get an official date.

Too Hot to Handle

Netflix’s Too Hot to Handle brings together a motley of gorgeous guys and girls, who have to remain celibate throughout the show. With cameras watching contestants’ every move and challenges that threaten to dilute their resolve, Too Hot to Handle is hailed as a mish-mash of successful dating shows.

Too Hot to Handle

It has been renewed for two more seasons, with season 2 slated to go on air on June 23. Too hot to handle has been regarded as an addictive, trashy series by critics.

Lucifer

The Tom Ellis-helmed Lucifer follows the story of the foremost fallen angel, Lucifer, who after his fall opens up a nightclub and joins hands with law enforcement agencies as a consultant. This immensely popular series has been renewed for a final Season 6 (slated to go on air late this year.)

Lucifer

Lucifer has also been the subject of controversies for trying to humanize Satan. In 2018, #SaveLucifer became the number one trending hashtag following the news of its probable cancellation. It was followed by the second hashtag #PickupLucifer.

Borgen

A Danish drama, Borgen follows the series of events that put Birgitte Nyborg in the Danish Prime Minister’s seat as the country’s first female leader. It is not based on any true events and highlights how power changes a person.

Borgen

Renewed for Season 4, Borgen is expected to premiere sometime later next year. This political drama has received rave reviews in terms of the treatment, storyline, and the clever writing techniques it employs.

Locke & Key

A supernatural horror drama, Locke & Key follows the journey of three siblings after they move into their familial home after their dad’s demise. They then discover a magical set of keys and have an encounter with supernatural forces.

Locke & Key

Opening up to the mixed and neutral reviews, Locke & Key has legions of fans across the globe. The series was picked up for the second and third seasons in December 2020. Its second season is expected to have a late 2021 release.

Money Heist

La Casa de Papel or Money Heist is a Spanish crime drama following the actions of eight robbers who try to pull off massive loot from the Royal Mint of Spain. The series so far has won Best Drama: International Emmy Awards, Premios Fenix, and Premios Iris.

Money Heist

Being released in parts, its first installment of Season 5 is expected to hit the screen on September 3. A blockbuster hit among the fans and critics, Money Heist enjoys a prominent hold in popular culture. In 2019, Italian label Diesel launched a Money Heist inspired collection in red to cash in the trend.

The Baby-Sitters Club

The Baby-Sitters Club or BSC for short is based on Ann M Martin’s novels. The show is basically about a group of friends coming together to start a babysitting service and the situations that ensue.

The Baby-Sitters Club

Based on the success of the series, Netflix renewed BSC for a second season. According to numerous critics, the tween drama has a dash of retro, is engaging, and can be equally enjoyed by the non-tweens too. The show’s release date remains yet to be confirmed.

Russian Doll

With a plot sharing a bit of similarity with Run Lola Run, Russian Doll is a story of potential outcomes when one is stuck in a time loop, courtesy of a bug in the universe. Told in a remarkably fresh manner, the series breaks new ground in terms of storytelling.

Russian Doll

The series was renewed for Season 2 in 2019 for which it began filming in March this year. So, it is expected to return in 2022. The series has been praised for putting an innovative spin on the banality of existence.

Raising Dion

A sci-fi drama, Raising Dion follows the story of a young Dion, who’s blessed with superpowers and, his single mother who tries to come to terms with his son’s growing powers. Based on a comic book, the series was renewed by Netflix for a second run on December 2020.

Raising Dion

The series opened up to many mixed reviews among the critics with several pointing out the scope of improvement it has. Raising Dion is expected to return by late 2021.

Selling Sunset

Netflix’s reality series Selling Sunset follows the lives of upscale agents at The Oppenheim Group as they try to sell spaces to LA’s super-rich buyers. The series puts a spotlight on the personal and professional lives of these agents as they deal with their issues.

Selling Sunset

Selling Sunset was picked up for a fourth and fifth season by Netflix this year. The show has been under flak by critics owing to its inauthenticity and staged plots. Currently in production, Selling Sunset could return by late 2021.

Queer Eye

A reboot of the hugely popular show Queer Eye For The Straight Eye, Queer Eye is a feel-good makeover show comprising the Fab 5: Bobby Berk, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and Jonathan Van Ness.

Queer Eye

The show has been an eight-time EMMY winner and is lauded by critics. They are all set to return with Season 6 sometime in fall 2021 for which it has already started filming. The show has struck a chord among the masses with its inherent messaging of self-love.

Sweet Magnolias

Set in a quaint little town of Serenity, Sweet Magnolias is a story of two friends who always have each other’s back, be it adversity or not. Described as heart-warming, a slice-of-life tale, the series is loved by critics and fans in equal measure.

Sweet Magnolias

The series was renewed for the second season by Netflix for which it began shooting in the month of March. The show originally premiered on the streamer last year and will return with a new season by 2022.

Bling Empire

A reality show that follows the life of ultra-rich Asian and Asian Americans, Bling Empire is an insider peek into their social lives. Billed as the real-life Crazy Rich Asians, it was renewed for a second season by Netflix (expected to go on air this year.)

Bling Empire

It has time and again been criticized for its tone-deaf approach with some viewers finding it similar to Keeping up with Kardashians. One of its stars Kevin Krieger was also accused of putting up an insensitive Instagram post early this year.

Dear White People

Sharing its name with a film, Dear White People is a fierce love letter to the black culture by the black community. It follows the journeys of students of color at an Ivy League college and doesn’t shy away from speaking about various race-related issues.

Dear White People

A critically acclaimed and much-loved series, Dear White People was renewed by Netflix for – the fourth and final season – slated to release sometime this year. The show was initially in the news for airing ‘anti-white sentiments.’

Grace & Frankie

One of the few shows to have an all-senior main cast, Grace & Frankie is the story of two friends: Grace and Frankie, as different as chalk and cheese. After their husbands ditch them to marry each other, Grace & Frankie build their life together.

Grace & Frankie

While its premiere season opened to mixed reviews, the reviews have been towards a positive side for its subsequent seasons. These young-at-heart ladies will be returning for a final Season 7 next year to enthrall their fans.

Stranger Things

Set in Hawkins, Indiana, Stranger Things is a story of the events that follow post the disappearance of a young boy. The title alludes to the discovery of supernatural forces and classified government information that the boy’s friends stumble upon while searching for him.

Stranger Things

Immensely loved by fans and critics, the show has so far got 38 Emmy nominations. Expected to be released by the first quarter of 2022, its fourth season is eagerly awaited by the show’s fans.