Many potentially great TV shows, particularly those with fantasy or science fiction themes, haven’t lasted long with the rise of streaming, often because they’re expensive to produce. However, one show on Disney+ stands out as a particularly frustrating cancellation. Since launching in 2019, Disney+ has become a major streaming service, and unfortunately, has disappointed viewers by ending several series prematurely.
A lot of original shows on Disney+ are connected to the Star Wars and Marvel universes. While Disney has used its popular franchises to create new content, many shows haven’t lasted very long. For example, series like Renegade Nell and American Born Chinese were cancelled prematurely, and they’re just a few of the fantasy shows from the 2020s that ended before they could fully develop their stories.
The current way shows are made for streaming – similar to after Game of Thrones ended – often leads to studios spending a lot of money on high-quality shows, but then cancelling them if they don’t become instant hits. Fortunately, these shows are usually still available to watch for those who want to, even after cancellation.
Why Willow Was Removed From Disney+
The series Willow began streaming on Disney+ in 2022 as a continuation of the beloved 1988 film. The show centers on Willow Ufgood, again played by Warwick Davis, and his mission to protect a baby destined to overthrow the wicked queen. Both Davis and Joanne Whalley, who starred in the original movie, return for the series.
The sequel series, Willow, features the now-grown Elora Danan (played by Ellie Bamber) alongside Willow on a new magical quest. Unfortunately, despite the cast and crew wanting to continue the story, Disney+ cancelled the show shortly after its first season ended in early 2023.
Additionally, the show Willow is no longer available on Disney+. It was one of around 50 titles Disney+ removed in May 2023 to save money. Disney’s CFO, Christine McCarthy, stated that removing these shows allowed the company to claim a tax benefit by writing off their value.
Though Renegade Nell tells a complete story in its single season, it hints at future storylines that will now remain unresolved, which is disappointing for fans. However, the show will always be available for viewers to rewatch. In 2023, creator Nick Davis publicly criticized Disney on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
I regularly meet viewers who loved the Willow series on Disney+ and are understandably upset it’s no longer available. Could someone please give me a clear response I can share with them when they ask why it’s been removed? It’s really awkward explaining this situation. #disappointed
Disney doesn’t plan to make any more Willow shows or movies, and because it’s no longer available to watch online, it feels like the series has been completely forgotten.
Willow Was A Lot Better Than Disney Gives It Credit For
Despite its cancellation, Willow had a lot of potential and deserved a second season. It received positive reviews, earning an 84% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and featured strong performances from actors like Ruby Cruz and Erin Kellyman. Many critics found the show to be delightful and appreciated its genuine and heartfelt LGBTQ+ storyline.
As a big fan of fantasy shows, I really appreciated what Alex Harrison pointed out in his ScreenRant review of Willow. He felt, and I agree, that the show seemed to prioritize being fun over trying to be overly serious or important. It’s so refreshing to see that now, when everything feels like sacred text! Joonatan Itkonen from Region Free put it nicely too – he believes the series truly understands its potential and isn’t afraid to lean into it.
Many TV shows today could have become much more successful if they’d launched 20 years ago. Unfortunately, Willow is a good example of this – despite being cancelled, it didn’t get the chance to prove its potential on its original streaming service.
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2026-03-04 01:08