The series earned high critical praise, but Netflix says viewership metrics fell short of renewal thresholds.
Netflix has canceled “Boots,” a dramedy centered on a closeted gay Marine recruit during the 1990s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” era, after one season. Despite a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes and solid audience response, the streamer cited insufficient performance metrics, according to Deadline.
Netflix has canceled “Boots” after one season, according to reporting by Deadline, despite the series receiving strong critical reception and positive audience response. The show held a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and explored the experiences of a gay Marine recruit navigating military life under the former “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
The series, set in the 1990s, blended comedy and drama to examine identity, secrecy, and institutional pressure within the U.S. military. Critics praised its performances and tone, while viewers highlighted its perspective on a period often underrepresented in television.
Netflix said the decision was based on internal performance benchmarks, stating that the show did not meet the metrics required for renewal. The company did not provide detailed data, a practice consistent with its broader approach to renewals.
Speculation about political pressure emerged after the Pentagon previously referred to the series as “woke garbage,” a characterization that circulated widely online. However, there is no confirmed evidence that political influence played a role in Netflix’s decision, and the company has denied such claims.
Following the cancellation, fans expressed anger on X, accusing Netflix of a pattern of ending queer-led projects prematurely. Some users called for “Boots” to be picked up by another network or streaming service.
Industry analysts note that cancellation decisions often involve complex factors, including completion rates, subscriber acquisition, and long-term value. As of now, “Boots” remains canceled, though its creators and supporters continue to push for a potential revival elsewhere.
