The Umbrella Academy squeezed the most out of an apocalyptic event, more than any series ever could and yet it felt like the franchise still had more to give. Especially with regards to the potential of the siblings’ powers.
We’re not just talking about Lila’s (Ritu Arya) new laser eyes which, by the way, were impressive even if they did yield some pretty revolting results. We are however talking about the diminished use of Allison’s (Emmy Raver-Lampman) ‘I heard a rumour’ gift and Robert Sheehan’s Klaus barely getting to flex his necromancy muscles.
This, coupled with the fact that the Hargreeves got an insane power boost this season paired with new, bizarre, relationship developments (that’s as far as we’re going with spoilers for now) means there was definitely scope to delve deeper into their messed-up family dynamics. So why aren’t we?
Here’s why The Umbrella Academy won’t be getting a season five.
Why isn’t The Umbrella Academy getting a season 5?
According to the showrunner Steve Blackman, it was always his plan to end The Umbrella Academy with season four. Blackman has stayed true to his original vision, stating:
“I have what I think is an end to the TV show. Netflix may want more than that, but I have a sweet thought of where I think the show should end and where we’re going.” (As reported by The Express.)
So it’s as simple as that: a creative decision that may (or may not) put to bed the rumours that the show was axed at season four because of budget reasons.
The final series was also slimmed down from 10 episodes to just six.
Explaining the decision behind this, Blackman told Radio Times:
“We had planned at one point for more episodes, and then we agreed with Netflix to do six. At the time, it seemed like the right amount. I had to do a little bit of compressing because we thought there’d be a bit more material, but it turned out to be a perfect number.
“Could we have done more? Yes, but I think the six we have are just the perfect way to end the season.”
However the showrunner has promised fans that this will be “six amazing episodes,” adding, “you’re going to love them.”
The cast assembled at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood early August ahead of the season-four debut to celebrate at the premiere, where they also said farewell to the beloved series.
Five actor Aidan Gallagher, who has played the teleporter since the age of 13, referred to the close of the series as “eerie and beautiful”, adding, “it was a beautiful chapter and an incredible privilege to have grown up as a person and as a dramatic actor within this context.
“I got really lucky,” (as reported by Tudum).
Source: digitalspy.com