Netflix's gritty new Western drama, The Abandons, has sparked fervent debate and left viewers demanding answers after its first season concluded on a major cliffhanger. The series, featuring a powerhouse cast led by Lena Headey and Gillian Anderson, premiered to decidedly mixed reviews, with some championing it as superior to 'Yellowstone' and others dismissing it entirely.
A Turbulent Path to the Screen
The show's journey to Netflix was marked by significant behind-the-scenes changes. Originally commissioned in October 2022 as a ten-episode order for creator Kurt Sutter, the project faced substantial revisions. Amid widespread budget cuts across the streaming industry, the episode count was slashed from ten to seven. Furthermore, Sutter departed the production with just weeks of filming remaining, adding to the show's tumultuous genesis.
Will The Story Continue?
As of now, Netflix has not renewed The Abandons for a second season, leaving its future officially unconfirmed. This uncertainty comes despite a finale deliberately crafted to set up future storylines, leaving the fate of its characters hanging in the balance after an intense final battle. The unresolved narrative has fuelled intense speculation among the show's dedicated fanbase.
The leading stars have expressed clear interest in returning. Lena Headey gave a confident "yes" when asked about continuing, while Gillian Anderson confirmed the cast had "really great fun" filming their elaborate final fight scene, which took a full day to complete. However, Anderson tempered expectations, noting that no creative discussions about a potential second season's story have taken place, pending the audience's response to the initial batch of episodes.
Audience Division and Critical Reception
Since its debut, The Abandons has polarised both critics and subscribers. The series, which boasts a notable ensemble cast, has been caught in a tug-of-war of opinions:
- Some viewers have hailed it as a fresh, compelling entry in the Western genre.
- Others have criticised its pacing and narrative, labelling it a disappointment.
This split verdict places additional pressure on Netflix's data-driven decision-making process regarding renewal. The platform will closely analyse viewership figures and completion rates over the coming weeks before deciding the show's fate.
All seven episodes of The Abandons' first season are available to stream globally on Netflix. Fans awaiting news of a second chapter will have to wait for an official announcement from the streaming giant, which will weigh the show's performance against its cost and creative potential.
