Netflix’s ‘Marco Polo’ Canceled After Two Seasons

Even as Netflix maintains the kind of capital to double its original series from year to year, historical drama Marco Polo certainly ranks among one of the more expensive and ambitious offerings to earn lukewarm reception. A Season 2 renewal seemed like a vote of confidence, though Netflix confirms the Benedict Wong-starring series will not return for Season 3.

Per Variety, the Weinstein Co.-produced series will cap out after two full seasons, joining the rare ranks of Netflix dramas canceled as such, including Lilyhammer and Hemlock Grove (each of which were given shortened third runs as consolation). The second season of Marco Polo debuted earlier this year on July 1.

In addition to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Star Trek: Discovery star Michelle Yeoh, the Marco Polo Season 2 cast included Lorenzo Richelmy as the famed historical figure himself, along with, Benedict Wong as Kublai Khan, Joan Chen as Empress Chabi, as well as Zhu Zhu, Olivia Cheng, Claudia Kim, Rick Yune, Remy Hii, Mahesh Jadu and Uli Latukefu.

Certainly one of the more high-profile defeats for the streaming service, but was Marco Polo worthy of Season 3?