Hearts broke when the fan-favorite queer dramedy, Boots, was struck down by the chopping blade of Netflix. Fans had fallen in love with its chaotic humor and heartfelt story, which also dealt with the social realities of the 1990s in the first season, and eagerly waited for the next chapter. It climbed into the top 10 after its October release but was cancelled in December, crushing hopes for a second season.

It quickly sparked backlash and controversy. But now, at last, the real reason behind Netflix pulling the plug on Boots has been revealed.

The cancellation of Boots caused a stir, with many wondering if there was any political involvement behind the decision. Earlier, Pentagon and US officials had voiced criticism of the content, calling it “woke garbage.” However, in a recent conversation with Marc Malkin at the Directors Guild of America Awards, Ted Sarandos dismissed those claims, explaining that the real reason for the cancellation was a drop in viewership.

“These are all business decisions based on audience relative to the cost of the show. Do the people who push play watch it till the end? Do they give it a couple of thumbs up? Does it keep growing? All of those things. That decision is made every day,” he said.

Ted Sarandos further went on to add that it is heartbreaking to cancel any show, especially this one from famed American TV producer Norman Lear. It was his final work before he passed away in 2023. While the series may not have performed well from a business standpoint, it was deeply loved by its audience.

Many were drawn to the story of a closeted queer teen, Cameron Cope, who enrolled in a military boot camp. Even the cast later opened up about their heartbreak and disappointment following the show’s cancellation.

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Following the cancellation, Miles Heizer was among those who opened up about his thoughts on Instagram.

Boots, starring Miles Heizer, showed comedy with legal and social issues through the lens of teen Cameron Cope, which formed the emotional core of the show. Understandably, its cancellation also disappointed the cast, and Heizer took to social media to express his disappointment.

“Well, I’m sad to report that Boots isn’t being renewed for a second season. I want to thank everyone for the overwhelming love and support they gave this show," he wrote.

The show drew inspiration from Greg Cope White’s 2016 memoir, The Pink Marine, which recounts his personal journey of joining the Marines in 1979 while hiding his sexuality, at a time when military policy strictly banned homosexuality. Although several changes were made for the series, the heart of the story remained intact.

And even though Netflix has moved on and Boots was brief, it had a meaningful emotional impact, ensuring it will not be forgotten anytime soon by fans or the people who brought it to life.

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What do you think about the reason behind Boots' cancellation? Let us know in the comments.