Disney Plus has recently faced significant backlash following its decision to cancel the critically acclaimed series ‘American Born Chinese’ after just one season. The fantasy action-comedy series, which premiered in May last year, was based on the 2006 graphic novel of the same name and boasted a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The series followed teenager Jin Wang, portrayed by Ben Wang, who finds himself in a world of mythical Chinese gods. The cast included notable names such as Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, and Daniel Wu, adding to the show’s appeal. Despite its critical acclaim and positive reception, Disney Plus cited viewership numbers that did not justify a renewal as the reason for its cancellation.
Fans and critics alike have expressed their disappointment and frustration on social media platforms. Many pointed out the lack of adequate promotion by Disney Plus as a contributing factor to the show’s limited viewership. Nathan Siomos, a viewer, expressed his dismay, stating, “American Born Chinese getting cancelled by Disney really pi**es me off. A show with a great story, fantastic cast and awesome fight choreography should be getting a lot more views,’
‘It’s ridiculous that a show this good THAT ENDS ON A CLIFFHANGER can’t be continued because Disney themselves doesn’t know how to tell people to watch it.’
Another viewer lamented, ‘American Born Chinese cancelled by Disney?! The marketing for a show with two Oscar winners + Daniel Wu…was NON existent. This show was a fun watch! Sad to see Disney completely ignore and not promote their show and then cancel it.’
Another fan echoed this sentiment, stating that the show ‘did not deserve to get canceled’ and criticizing Disney’s approach. ‘It makes me not want to bother investing my time in Disney Plus shows when they’re just going to get canceled before completion,’ they wrote, highlighting a growing concern among the streaming service’s audience.
The show’s abrupt end, particularly after a cliffhanger in the first season, has left many viewers dissatisfied. The series’ finale revealed a significant plot twist involving Jin Wang, setting the stage for an anticipated continuation that will now remain unresolved on Disney Plus.
In light of the cancellation, there is a glimmer of hope for the series’ continuation. Producers are reportedly planning to shop the series to other streaming services and broadcasters. This move could potentially allow ‘American Born Chinese’ to continue its story, much to the relief of its dedicated fanbase.
As the situation develops, fans remain hopeful that ‘American Born Chinese’ will find a new home where its story can be continued. For now, the first and only season of ‘American Born Chinese’ is still available on Disney Plus.
