Netflix shocked fans earlier this month when they canceled two of their Marvel TV shows - Iron Fist and Luke Cage - which ultimately begged the question, which shows are still happening? The series, which were both part of Netflix's corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, were canned within the space of a week, and now doubts have been cast over the future of the other shows too.
While Daredevil season 3 recently debuted to critical acclaim, season 4 hasn’t yet been confirmed, and with Disney’s streaming service looming on the horizon, Netflix may even decide to sever all ties with the Mouse House. That could potentially play into Netflix's decision to pursue more comic book-themed properties that aren't necessarily Marvel-related.
Related: What Luke Cage & Iron Fist Seasons 3 Would Have Been About
However, Netflix does have some commitments to honor, at the moment, with a couple of renewals already in the bag and more that might be on the way.
Jessica Jones Season 3
While Jessica Jones season 2 was largely a disappointment compared to the first, it was successful enough with viewers to warrant a renewal for season 3. Filming began back in June, with star Krysten Ritter set to make her directorial debut on the series, and she’s joined in the cast by fellow returnees Rachael Taylor, Eka Darville, and Carrie-Anne Moss.
However, showrunner and creator Melissa Rosenberg is stepping down after season 3, which means there’s going to be a natural endpoint for the series as well. Since season 3 already started filming several months ago, this is one series that will definitely end up airing on Netflix, given the time and money spent developing it.
The Punisher Season 2
Right now, the only other Marvel series that has been renewed by Netflix is The Punisher. The streaming service ordered The Punisher season 2 only one month after the first season debuted last year, which means they must've seen great potential in the spinoff series.
Like Jessica Jones, The Punisher season 2 filmed earlier this year, with production wrapping back in August. Although nothing official has been revealed about the new season, other than the proper arrival of villain Jigsaw (Ben Barnes), there's still quite a bit to look forward to considering how season 1 ended. Furthermore, with production done, this one is certainly going to air as well. Any episodes beyond season 2, however, may be in doubt, with The Punisher not quite generating the same amount of buzz as the other shows.
Daredevil Season 4
There's no official word on Daredevil season 4 yet, but Netflix's modus operandi has been to confirm renewals (or, in recent cases, cancellations) approximately one month after the newest season airs. Given that Daredevil season 3 premiered last month, there's still time for the streaming giant to make up its mind. Again, The Punisher season 2 renewal didn't come in until December, so it's possible Netflix may wait to see how the rest of their shows perform this holiday season before making a final decision.
The cast and crew have all expressed their hope it'll continue, and Daredevil season 3's ending certainly warrants it. Daredevil is the flagship show of Netflix's corner of the MCU, so if any series has a chance of survival, it’s this one. If Netflix decides not to renew it, then that’ll be the clearest sign yet they’re going to be winding down their Marvel TV shows, although season 4 could be a good chance to at least go out with a bang.
Heroes For Hire & The Defenders?
With Luke Cage and Iron Fist being canceled, there has been speculation it might ultimately lead to a Heroes for Hire spinoff show. The pair worked together as Heroes for Hire in the comics, and - along with utilizing Colleen Wing and Misty Knight as Daughters of the Dragon - there’s enough to make a series like that work, especially since scenes featuring the two characters fighting side-by-side were arguably the best parts of Luke Cage season 2.
It would, however, be strange for Netflix to announce the cancellation of these series if this is the plan, rather than just immediately revealing their intentions. It seems unlikely right now, but given the duo's chemistry and reception to their team-ups, fans can retain some hope it might happen.
While The Defenders was initially billed as Netflix’s equivalent of The Avengers, the response was less than enthusiastic. There's little to no hope for The Defenders season 2, although it hasn’t been completely ruled out either. Marvel TV head Jeph Loeb recently said season 2 was still on the table, perhaps even featuring different heroes, while Charlie Cox has expressed interest, though it remains a long way off. Plus, seeing half the Defenders exit Netflix's corner of the MCU certainly doesn't help things.