The Great season three is gearing up to make its debut on Channel 4 but why was the historical comedy-drama cancelled?

The Great is making a comeback to the UK for its third outing, although this will wrap up Catherine and Peter’s stories for good.

Loosely based on the historical events of Catherine the Great of Russia and Emperor Peter III, The Great stars Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult and has received plenty of praise.

Not only have critics and fans alike enjoyed the drama, The Great has earned seven Emmy nominations and won the award for outstanding period costumes.

Fanning and Hoult were also nominated for their roles in 2022 but despite this success, it has been confirmed there won’t be a season four to get excited about.

Why was The Great cancelled?

It was announced by Hulu that The Great was done and dusted with, shortly after the premiere of season three in May 2023.

There had been reports that the comedy-drama was originally pitched for six seasons, making its cancellation even more of a surprise.

While Hulu doesn’t release its viewership data, season three didn’t make it into the Top 10 original streaming series list from Nielsen.

So it is believed that its lack of ratings could have something to do with The Great being axed.

There has also been some speculation that production may have been affected by the actors and writers’ strikes last year, potentially contributing to Hulu’s decision.

Actress Fanning spoke out about the show’s ending shortly after the announcement was made.

Taking to social media, she wrote: “This show has meant the world to me. The experiences shared. The memories I’ll never forget.

“Tony McNamara is a certified genius. The last 3 seasons have shaped me. Through playing Catherine I discovered parts of myself I didn’t know I had.”