'Underground' Canceled by WGN America After 2 Seasons
Acclaimed slavery drama "Underground" has been canceled after two seasons by WGN America.
Despite decent ratings and positive reviews, the show simply did not fit the network's new direction. WGN America is moving away from scripted originals, and also recently canceled "Outsiders," despite the fact that it was the highest-rated drama on the network.
"Despite 'Underground' being a terrific and important series, it no longer fits with our new direction and we have reached the difficult decision not to renew it for a third season," said Tribune Media president and CEO Peter Kern in a statement. "We are tremendously proud of this landmark series that captured the zeitgeist and made an impact on television in a way never before seen on the medium."
Sony is trying to shop "Underground" to other outlets, but show has a streaming deal with Hulu, which complicates any deal. BET and OWN have already passed.
The series, which was produced by Sony TV, followed a group of slaves as they sought freedom amid dangerous circumstances. It starred Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Aldis Hodge and Christopher Meloni and received accolades, including four NAACP Image Awards.