Fans take action as Anne With an E cancelled
The Netflix and CBC drama Anne With an E, adapted from Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables, was cancelled after three seasons.
In a joint statement, the networks said, “We’ve been thrilled to bring the quintessentially Canadian story of Anne With an E to viewers around the world. We’re thankful to producers Moira WalleyBeckett and Miranda de Pencier and to the talented cast and crew for their incredible work in sharing Anne’s story with a new generation. We hope fans of the show love this final season as much as we do, and that it brings a satisfying conclusion to Anne’s journey.”
In a statement posted to her Instagram, creator and executive-producer Walley-Beckett wrote, “I’m sorry for the sad Netflix/CBC news today. I wish it could be different but it cannot. We have reached the end of the red Green Gables road after three wonderful seasons. My heart is heavy but I am so proud of this show — proud of my talented cast, crew, writers, and directors for working together so passionately to bring my vision of Anne With an E to life. …
I know you have loved this series as much as I have and I thank you for that forever and a day”
The series was shot in Prince Edward Island and Ontario, and starred IrishCanadian actress Amybeth McNulty. It was praised for its modern take, which included LGBT and Indigenous storylines.
News of the cancellation has sparked a massive outcry from fans. The hashtag #SaveAnneWithAnE is still trending worldwide, with fans rallying to petition CBC to renew the series. One even mocked up a Rosie the Riveter-style portrait of McNulty as Anne.
Here is just some of what the fans have to say on Twitter: @grizzeliot: “you cant just take her away when her life was about to begin”; @keryboo: “This TV series taught us how to fight. Don’t be naive, WE WON’T GIVE UP”; @anneblytheee: “Just a reminder that this show provides important messages and talks about serious issues with such sensibility yet intensity. Our society is in need of an awakening and Anne With An E is capable of that. Don’t give up on it. It didn’t give up on you.”
The final season is set to premiere on January 3 on the streaming network, and has already aired on CBC in Canada.