Sophomore Contraction: Why So Many Popular Streaming Series Produced Fewer Episodes In Season 2

Story by Nellie Andreeva

Image from Deadline

scrn logline

From 'The Diplomat' to 'XO, Kitty' - an inside look at the shrinking episode counts for hit streaming series' second seasons.

beat sheet

Fans of Netflix's 'The Diplomat' were left wanting more as Season 2 dropped to just 6 episodes, down from 8 in the first season - a rare move for American shows.
The trend of shorter second seasons isn't limited to 'The Diplomat' - hit series like 'Bad Sisters,' 'House of the Dragon,' and 'XO, Kitty' have all followed suit, leaving viewers craving more from their favorite characters.

call sheet

Netflix, The Diplomat, Bad Sisters, House of the Dragon, Tell Me Lies, The Recruit, XO, Kitty