The musical drama “Up Here,” which came to life in January 2022, has met a swift end as its second season got the axe. Fans of the show are left wondering about the reasons behind the cancellation, bidding farewell to the characters Lindsay and Miguel. Before delving into the specifics, a moment of recognition is due to the creative minds who brought the show to fruition. The development of “Up Here” is credited to Steven Levenson, Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez, and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel. The show’s roots are traced back to Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez’s theater piece of the same name.
Hulu’s decision to cancel “Up Here” Season 2 stems from its underperformance, marking a cost-cutting measure. The term “pulled from the streamer” denotes series removed from the OTT platform due to cancellation. In line with a broader trend, Hulu and Disney+ have followed the steps of Warner Bros. by discontinuing approximately 30 scripted titles that failed to gain traction and became liabilities. The show has garnered a 53% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an average rating of 6.2/10. The mixed or negative reviews may be attributed to the lack of essential chemistry between Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes, along with an absence of a compelling script. While the theatrical version boasted impressive songs, the series required enhancements to elevate its appeal.
Another pivotal reason behind the cancellation could be the financial aspects. Disney CFO Christine McCarthy voiced concerns about earnings and expressed regret over the cancellation of the show. He further revealed that Disney is anticipating an impairment charge ranging from $1.5 billion to $1.8 billion on the content being removed. This indicates the complexity of the decision-making process, as deleting the series isn’t a straightforward endeavor.
Additionally, a lack of significant unresolved storylines could have contributed to the show’s conclusion. For those who haven’t witnessed the finale, the first season’s conclusion depicted Lindsay and Carlos reuniting on New Year’s Eve. Following a tumultuous journey marked by self-imposed obstacles, they realized their internal conflicts were the true hindrance to their connection. The series explored their hesitancy to acknowledge their feelings, often attributing their separation to external factors. Ultimately, the story culminated in their emotional reunion.
Even if a second season of “Up Here” had materialized, it would have likely focused on the characters’ journeys, particularly Lindsay, who was revealed to be pregnant at the finale’s close. For enthusiasts seeking closure, the conclusion of the first season offered a sense of fulfillment. One can comfortably assume that Lindsay and Carlos are enjoying their happily ever after.
In essence, “Up Here” Season 2’s cancellation emerges from a blend of factors, including financial considerations, lackluster reception, and narrative resolutions. While fans might lament the show’s abrupt ending, the first season’s culmination leaves room for imagination and contentment regarding the characters’ futures. As the landscape of entertainment continues to evolve, the stories that resonate will endure, fostering anticipation for fresh narratives that capture hearts and minds.
