Gone too soon: Spinoffs and series that deserved more seasons

Based in 1990s India, ‘Citadel: Honey Bunny’ traces the lives of stuntman Bunny and actress Honey, who cross paths again years later when their daughter Nadia is in danger. The show combines action, spy, and family drama for a speedy plot. Released in 2024, it was welcomed for its compelling premise and high-energy performances, although some fans felt it did not quite live up to its potential before cancellation.

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‘Citadel: Diana’ is an expansion of the Citadel universe with a new lead and a new espionage plot. The series follows Diana, a talented operative who operates in a society of secrets and treachery. Initially released in 2024, it was well received for its excellent lead and engaging storyline, attracting franchise fans. Despite garnering good reviews, it was axed after season one, leaving its narrative unfinished.

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This Indian spy thriller in 2019 features Emraan Hashmi as Kabir Anand, an ex-intelligence officer who is recruited again to extract Indian agents from Balochistan. The show combines action, suspense, and politics, with Vineet Kumar Singh and Sobhita Dhulipala starring in it. The show was praised for its performances and edge-of-the-seat feeling, but it wasn't picked up for renewal, which left fans crestfallen.

Netflix

‘The Fame Game’ (2022) stars Madhuri Dixit as Anamika Anand, a Bollywood actress whose mysterious disappearance reveals the drama behind her celebrity life. The series delves into fame, family, and the price of fame. Viewers enjoyed Dixit's acting and the series' gripping plot, but the series was immediately cancelled after one season, leaving many plot threads dangling.

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Launched in 2021, ‘Tandav’ is a Delhi power corridors set political drama with Saif Ali Khan, Dimple Kapadia, and Sunil Grover. The series explores ambition, manipulation, and the underbelly of politics. In spite of causing controversy and debate, it built a strong fan following for its gripping storytelling. But it was shut down after season one, leaving many of its fans shocked.

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My Lady Jane (2024) retells the tale of Lady Jane Grey, the "Nine-Day Queen," as a clever, adventurous heroine who seizes the reins of her destiny. The show weaves together history and fantasy, presenting a new, empowering vision of the Tudor period. Viewers loved its lighthearted tone and creative storytelling, but it was cancelled after its first season, so audiences remained eager for more.

Prime Video

From the creators of Dark, ‘1899’ (2022) is a mystery-thriller set aboard a migrant steamship bound for America. The multinational cast and intricate plotlines drew viewers into a web of secrets when the ship encounters the lost Prometheus. The show was acclaimed for its ambition and atmosphere, but its cancellation after one season left fans with unanswered questions.

Netflix

‘Leila’ (2019) is a dystopian thriller featuring Huma Qureshi as Shalini, a mother who is looking for her daughter in future totalitarian India. The show touches upon issues of caste, religion, and authoritarianism, appreciating its fearless narrative and acting. Though critically acclaimed with its timely and gripping story, 'Leila' wasn't renewed, and the eerie world it created remained unexplored.

Netflix