Superhero Movie Satire Series ‘The Franchise’ Canceled by HBO

HBO has canceled The Franchise, its series that parodied superhero movie franchises, after one season.

In addition to its concept, which took aim at the entertainment industry’s insatiable desire for superhero films (looking at you, Marvel and DC), The Franchise counted some high-profile producers in Veep creator Armando Iannucci, and Skyfall director Sam Mendes. The Franchise was created by Veep and Succession veteran Jon Brown.

“We’re so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with the tremendously talented team behind The Franchise, especially Sam Mendes, Jon Brown, Armando Iannucci, and this hilarious ensemble of actors,” an HBO spokesperson said. “While we won’t be moving forward with another season, we look forward to collaborating with all of them in the future.”

The series was ordered amid the 2023 Hollywood strikes. While the pilot was completed before the strikes began, the start of the production was delayed until they were resolved.

The series starred Himesh Patel and Aya Cash and was set behind the scenes of a fledgling superhero film called Tecto: Eye of the Storm, and skewered the superhero genre and Hollywood’s non-stop push for IP-driven fare.

Deadline first reported on the cancelation.