It seems like far too often we have to report that streaming platforms are axing shows for a number of reasons. It’s no secret that there’s been a scramble amongst the big players, Netflix, Paramount+, MAX, etc. to trim the budgets and cancel what’s not seeming to bring in the ratings. But if Prime Video is feeling the heat they’re certainly not showing it; at least not in the animation department. At San Diego Comic-Con, Prime Video revealed that at least three of its programs have the greenlight for more seasons.
“Invincible“
Of the three shows, maybe the biggest no-brainer of a renewal was the one given to “Invincible.” The animated adaptation of the Robert Kirkman comic series already had a third season in the works, and now it’s going to be getting a fourth. Considering the amount of critical and commercial acclaim the program has gathered, it’s not exactly a surprise. The second season wrapped up airing earlier this year in April, so at least fans know there’s plenty more to come from.
“Hazbin Hotel“
Next up, and also not entirely surprising, is the renewal for a third season and fourth season of “Hazbin Hotel.“ The musically infused after-life comedy went from starting off as a pilot episode on YouTube to getting a full series production order with collaboration from A24, Bento Box Entertainment, and Amazon Studios. Its success has also spread over into the music world where several of the show’s songs have charted in the US, Canada, and the UK. The first season ended back in February while its sister series “Helluva Boss” has dropped new episodes on YouTube as recently as last month.
“Sausage Party: Foodtopia“
Finally we have confirmation that one of the more recent additions to Prime Video, “Sausage Party: Foodtopia,” has been picked up for a second season. While premiering to lackluster reviews earlier in July, the show does serve as a sequel to the 2016 film and carries over much of the talent and production team that created it. So, with names like Seth Rogan, Edward Norton, Evan Goldberg, and Kristen Wiig attached to the series, it’s likely that Amazon wants to stay the course and let the show build up its audience. The entirety of the first season premiered on July 11th.
While animation isn’t exactly cheap, it can be a lot less costly than the budgets being spent on things like “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.” Why not give the go-ahead to successful animation projects to help offset the costs of live-action behemoths? It’s not like Amazon is hurting for cash either, so it’s nice to be able to report some renewals for a change and hope that the animation field continues to grow.
