Hit series canceled despite season 2 renewal

, has significantly reduced its slate of scripted originals from its previous position as a premium content provider. Instead, the network will now focus on a select group of shows including “The Chi,” “The Agency,” “Yellowjackets,” and “Dexter: Resurrection.”

It seems like the decision to cancel “Dexter: Original Sin” caught many fans by surprise, especially after the show was renewed for a second season back in April. The series, which featured a talented ensemble cast including Patrick Gibson, Molly Brown, Christina Milian, and Christian Slater, as well as guest appearances by Sarah Michelle Gellar and Patrick Dempsey, concluded its first season in February with no production schedule set for the next one.

The cancelation comes at a time of major changes following the Skydance-Paramount merger, leading to a reorganization of leadership and content strategies within the network. Matt Thunell, who oversees Showtime’s production operations, is now taking a closer look at the programming lineup with a renewed focus on established successful series.

Despite the cancelation of “Original Sin,” Paramount is doubling down on the Dexter franchise and has already started working on a potential second season of “Dexter: Resurrection,” starring Michael C. Hall reprising his role as the titular character. The latest installment in the franchise drew in 4.4 million viewers across multiple platforms in its first week and received an impressive 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

This strategic shift reflects Paramount’s commitment to prioritizing well-known franchises as the streaming landscape becomes increasingly competitive. As the network, now operating as Paramount+ alongside Showtime, refocuses its efforts, fans can look forward to a curated selection of shows including “The Chi,” “The Agency,” “Yellowjackets,” and of course, “Dexter: Resurrection.”