Netflix's 'Good Times' Cancellation: Why Fans Are Happy
The Netflix cancellation of the animated reboot "Good Times Black Again" has sparked an unusual reaction: celebration. Instead of the typical outcry when a show gets the axe, many viewers are expressing joy over the streaming service's decision to pull the plug on this controversial series.
Months after its debut, which was met with immediate criticism, Netflix quietly removed the show, and social media erupted with positive reactions. But what exactly went wrong, and why are people so happy about this Netflix cancellation?
What 'Good Times Black Again' Tried to Achieve
“Good Times Black Again” aimed to be a modern, animated "spiritual sequel" to the original "Good Times," focusing on a new generation of the Evans family in Chicago’s Cabrini-Green projects. The series Reggie Evans (J.B. Smoove) as the struggling cab driver, Beverly (Yvette Nicole Brown) as his wife, and their three children: Junior (Jimmie Walker), Grey (Marsai Martin), and Dalvin (Gerald "Slink" Johnson).
The concept was to blend classic sitcom elements with a contemporary animated style. However, critics and audiences felt that the show relied too heavily on exaggerated stereotypes and shock-value humor, missing the grounded humanity of the original series.
Instead of thoughtfully updating the original’s exploration of Black family life amid economic hardship, the reboot often portrayed its characters as caricatures. Issues like roach-infested apartments and gun violence were used as running gags rather than as commentary.
The trailer itself received negative feedback before the series even premiered, with the NAACP expressing concern over the portrayal of Black life. Netflix didn't provide critics with advance copies, which further fueled negative perceptions.
Why the Negative Reaction to 'Good Times Black Again'
Reviews consistently the same problems: repetitive stereotypes, stale jokes, and a bizarre tonal imbalance. Scenes featuring gunfights in medical clinics and rival toddlers chasing a drug-dealing infant were seen as trying too hard to be edgy.
Viewers felt that the show prioritized shock value over substance, failing to capture the warmth and dignity of the original "Good Times." For many fans, the reboot felt like a pointless parody rather than a respectful homage. The reaction online was overwhelmingly negative.
Many viewers described the series as "a mess" and "horrible," accusing it of reinforcing harmful stereotypes. They struggled to reconcile the original show’s heart and resilience with a reboot that seemed to revel in shock value. This contributed to the overall sentiment surrounding the Netflix cancellation.
The Relief Surrounding the Netflix Cancellation
By November, it was clear that "Good Times Black Again" was struggling. Despite featuring well-known voice actors and briefly appearing in Netflix’s Top 10, the show couldn’t overcome the negative reviews. Netflix ultimately canceled it along with two other adult animated series.
Even those who felt the series had some merit acknowledged its flaws. Some argued that the show attempted to critique modern issues through satire, but its extreme humor obscured the message. Others suggested that later episodes showed potential, but few viewers stuck around long enough to see them.
It's unusual for fans to celebrate a show's Netflix cancellation. In this case, the cancellation was met with enthusiasm because of the disappointment and anger many felt towards what they perceived as a poorly executed idea. The original "Good Times" was groundbreaking in its portrayal of a Black family facing real challenges with love and dignity. The remake, however, seemed to use those challenges solely for comedic effect.
For audiences who hold the original series in high regard, this was a step too far. The result was a rare moment of agreement across social media: Netflix made the right decision with this Netflix cancellation.