Netflix’s highly anticipated show, 3 Body Problem, is facing challenges as it has already been surpassed in viewership by Testament: The Story of Moses, a biblical docudrama series with a significantly lower budget. Despite having 11 million viewers in its first four days, the high cost of 3 Body Problem, reportedly $20 million per episode, is raising concerns about its future prospects. This situation is further complicated by the fact that only one book out of three has been adapted for the series, potentially leaving Netflix in a difficult position regarding its investment in the project.
The performance of shows on Netflix is not only determined by viewership numbers but also by metrics such as viewer retention and completion rates. The underperformance of 3 Body Problem, especially considering it comes from Game of Thrones showrunners David Benioff and DB Weiss, is a cause for concern. While the show’s relationship with these high-profile figures may provide some leeway, the potential cost of producing all three seasons, estimated at half a billion dollars, is a significant factor in the decision-making process.
Despite its initial success, 3 Body Problem’s position on Netflix’s Top 10 list is being overshadowed by other shows like The Gentlemen, which has not been renewed for a second season but seems more likely to be a hit. The challenges of deciding whether to commit to additional seasons of 3 Body Problem in order to cover all three books in the trilogy highlight the complexities Netflix faces when determining the fate of its original content.
The creators of 3 Body Problem are expressing optimism about the future of the show, envisioning a four-season structure to fully capture the escalating intensity and complexity of the story as it progresses through the trilogy. However, the increasing demands for visual effects and the potential for rising production costs present hurdles for Netflix in deciding whether to continue investing in the series. Given the ambitious scale of the show and the financial implications of producing multiple seasons, the decision to renew 3 Body Problem remains uncertain.
As discussions about the future of the show continue, the creators emphasize their desire to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience to audiences, particularly as the story becomes more intricate and fantastical. The prospect of reaching a “glorious culmination” in the later seasons of the show hinges on Netflix’s willingness to sustain the production and meet the escalating demands of the source material. With the potential for costs to exceed half a billion dollars for three seasons or even more for a four-season run, the decision to renew 3 Body Problem remains a high-stakes gamble for the streaming giant.
