Netflix’s cancellation of GLOW remains particularly disappointing, especially considering how unique the show was and the lack of similar programs since. GLOW was inspired by the real-life “Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling,” a pioneering women’s wrestling television series, though the Netflix show also featured characters created specifically for it.
GLOW was a popular Netflix series that consistently received positive reviews, earning a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It quickly gained a dedicated fanbase thanks to its diverse cast and strong portrayal of female friendships. Although the show was initially renewed for a fourth season, Netflix ultimately canceled it in 2020.
Why Netflix Canceled GLOW, Despite Season 4 Being In Production
As you might expect, the TV series GLOW, which centered around women’s wrestling, was a very physically demanding show to produce. The actors had to learn to wrestle together, and much of the show’s emotional drama unfolded within the wrestling ring – for example, Debbie’s understandable frustration with Ruth’s actions, and Sheila’s journey to find herself. Unfortunately, filming had to stop in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges of working in close proximity.
Filming for the final season of GLOW started in early 2020, as there were no known issues at the end of 2019—Alison Brie even shared a photo from the set. Unfortunately, just a month later, the COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to continue filming safely with a large cast and close contact. Netflix ultimately canceled the show due to these challenges. While understandable, the cancellation was a huge disappointment for fans and the actors involved.
| GLOW’s Rotten Tomatoes Ratings | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Year | Rotten Tomatoes Critics’ Rating | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Rating |
| 1 | 2017 | 94% | 90% |
| 2 | 2018 | 98% | 91% |
| 3 | 2019 | 87% | 78% |
Alison Brie described the cancellation of GLOW as “the biggest disappointment of my career,” especially since they had already started filming the fourth season. Fans were particularly upset because the show was set to conclude with a final season, offering a complete story – something Netflix is known for not always providing, as they’ve canceled many critically acclaimed series.
Netflix’s Decision To Cancel GLOW Has Aged Poorly
Although canceling the show initially seemed like a reasonable choice, Netflix’s decision not to revive GLOW hasn’t held up well over time. Many shows focusing on female friendships tend to avoid complex topics, offering lighthearted stories, but GLOW was different – it bravely explored serious issues while still being genuinely funny.
GLOW realistically portrayed the sexism, racism, and cultural issues within the entertainment industry. However, as the series progressed, it increasingly centered on the white characters, overshadowing the stories of other key players. Six cast members rightfully voiced their concerns to Netflix, and the show deserved another season to fully develop the complex and deserving arcs of these women.
Bringing back the show GLOW was an idea, but waiting until 2022 felt like too long of a gap. Now that Netflix often releases seasons of popular shows like Stranger Things years apart, that decision doesn’t look so good. Since nothing has filled the void GLOW left in the last six years, anyone with a Netflix account should definitely check out its three seasons.
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2026-03-04 01:58