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 Walley-Beckett 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 Irish-Canadian 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.