Adapting a beloved book like Shadow and Bone into a TV series has a built-in advantage – a large and passionate fanbase. But that same enthusiasm can also create challenges.
The first season of the Netflix series based on Leigh Bardugo’s books premiered on April 23, 2021, and quickly gained popularity. A second season followed on March 16, 2023, but Netflix unexpectedly canceled the show that November. Despite the cancellation, fans remained dedicated, and within the first six months of 2025, the two seasons together accumulated 20.7 million viewing hours, according to data from FlixPatrol and Netflix.
Netflix explained that the show was canceled after the actors’ and writers’ strikes ended in 2023. This decision was surprising, considering the show had been very successful.
According to recent data, the first season of the show garnered 99.5 million views in the first half of 2023. The second season performed exceptionally well, more than doubling that with 192.9 million views after its release. Viewership remained strong later in the year, reaching a total of 48.9 million hours watched.
Despite being canceled in November 2023, Shadow and Bone remained popular, racking up 49.2 million viewing hours in 2024 – and nearly half that amount in the first half of 2025.
As a big fan of Shadow and Bone, I was really disappointed to hear it was cancelled. It stung even more knowing that Eric Heisserer, the showrunner, and a bunch of the cast were actually at the negotiating table during the strike. Seeing a show with such a dedicated fanbase get the axe just didn’t seem right, and a lot of people – myself included – were pretty upset about it.
Despite the pushback, Netflix remained firm in its decision. They also canceled the previously announced Six of Crows spinoff series.
After the show was cancelled, fans started numerous petitions and filled social media with requests for a reversal, or at least for another streamer to continue it. This reaction highlights the show’s continued popularity and strong audience numbers.
Shadow and Bone Had Strong Reviews
Turning a beloved book series into a show is challenging, especially with fantasy stories. Often, the adaptation doesn’t quite live up to fans’ expectations. But Shadow and Bone proved to be a successful adaptation, pleasing many readers.
The series is widely praised by both critics and viewers, with approval ratings of 83% and 84% respectively. The first season was particularly well-received, earning an 89% rating from critics and 87% from audiences. The second season saw a small dip in scores, with ratings of 78% from critics and 80% from viewers.
Seasons 1 and 2 of Shadow and Bone are streaming on Netflix.
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2026-01-20 23:36