Fans of Prime Video's epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time, are reeling after the recent announcement that the show will conclude after its upcoming third season. In a lengthy Instagram post, showrunner Rafe Judkins addressed the surprising cancellation, admitting that even he doesn't fully understand the reasoning behind the decision.
Rafe began his post by writing, "I’ve been asked the same question many times the last week – why was The Wheel of Time cancelled? And the truth is, I don’t know. I wish I could say something clear and tidy that explains to all those who love it why it’s coming to an end, but sadly, I can’t."
And while he didn't offer any specifics on the show's cancellation, he did tellingly dive into the current discourse surrounding television and streaming and the immediate goal of increasing subscribers. Said Rafe, "Much has been written about this larger trend in TV toward fewer seasons with less episodes and finding quicker ways to acquire additional streaming subscribers. But I genuinely believe that this goes against the fundamental strength of television – long-form storytelling."
"It is an art form, much like epic fantasy, which at its very best, gives people a place to go and spend time with the characters that they love year after year after year. And I believe there are executives, studios, and networks who know that. I believe that we will find our way through this current iteration of the industry and back to what we do best – bringing great characters into people’s living rooms and lives every week."
Lastly, he also touched on the chances of The Wheel of Time being picked up by another streamer or network (fans on social media are clamoring for Apple TV+ to pick up the show).
"Will the Wheel of Time get to do that with another network and finish the story? Sadly, it’s not something that happens often. But it does happen," said Judkins via Instagram. "In fact, one of the reasons we first chose Amazon as a home for the show was because they were in the midst of picking up The Expanse after SYFY cancelled it."
"So, who knows, perhaps the Wheel of Time show will do what the books have always managed to do since day one – defy the traditional definitions of “beginnings” and “ends”. I certainly hope it does – because this book series and these fans deserve to see the story finished."
Rafe’s statement is long-winded but light on substance. He offers no clear reason for the show’s cancellation, doesn’t say whether it's being pitched to other networks, and leaves unanswered whether Prime Video considered options like shorter seasons or fewer episodes. For a message meant to reassure a global fanbase, it ultimately lacks the clarity and transparency many were hoping for.
Earlier this week, TV Line reported that the show WAS NOT being shopped to other networks and Rafe failed to address this.
All eyes are now on Rosamund Pike, who portrays the pivotal character of Moiraine Damodred. Fans are hoping the acclaimed actress might offer a more definitive statement or provide additional clarity on the future of the beloved fantasy saga.