Hit period drama starring Bafta-winning actor brutally axed by bosses after just one series
DRAMA fans have been left mourning a historical period drama after it was revealed the series has been axed after just one series.
A hit Disney+ drama set during the reign of Henry VIII in the 16th century received rave reviews, but has failed to be renewed for a second series.
Shardlake, released last year, is based on the historical novels by C.J. Sansom and with seven books in the series fans were hoping the drama would include multiple seasons.
However Disney+, where the initial series was streamed, has decided to axe the series after just one season.
The four part series focuses on barrister Master Matthew Shardlake after he is sent by Thomas Cromwell to investigate the death of a commissioner in the remote monastery of Scarnsea.
However, he is then ‘drawn into a web of lies that threatens not only his integrity but his life’ after is becomes clear the murder is not the first to have been committed.
Shardlake has a stellar cast starring Sean Bean, Arthur Hughes and Anthony Boyle, with the latter confirming there are no plans for a second series.
Writing on Instagram, Anthony told fans: “Sadly Shardlake won’t be coming back from another season. Thanks for all the love and support on it. First season still on Disney Plus UK.”
In a statement to Variety, a Disney spokesperson also confirmed the news and said: “We’d like to thank Stephen Butchard who adapted the late C.J. Sansom’s beloved novel for the screen, the entire cast – led by the outstanding Arthur Hughes – and crew, and our production partners The Forge and Runaway Fridge.
“We hope to work with all of our partners across these shows again in the future.”
The blow has hit fans hard after the rights to the drama was granted 20 years ago by the author, with producer Stevie Lee taking on the TV series and receiving high praise from fans.
The series has an 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with one review stating: “Gripping atmospheric historical drama, great cast.”
Another added: “Captured the spirit of the books – watched all parts in one sitting! Riveting, entertaining script – all central performances are excellent.
“Arthur Hughes especially good, capturing all of the nuances and complexities of the titular character. Roll on season 2!”
A third called for a second series to continue the characters and narrative as they wrote that it “definitely requires a second season to round out the characters”.
Taking to social media, fans of the series have expressed how ‘gutted’ they are that Shardlake has been axed after just one series.
One fan wrote on X: “ReallY gutted to hear the news #shardlake won’t be returning for a 2nd second. What a missed opportunity. Great cast and fantastic books. Disappointed.”
Another posted: “Right, cancelling Shardlake is a legit crime.”
Shardlake is available to stream on Disney+.
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