Did HBO cancel Somebody Somewhere? Possible reason behind the show not having a Season 4, explored 

Season 3 of Somebody Somewhere premiered in October 2024. HBO earlier confirmed that the charming dramedy's third season would be its final. The show first premiered in 2022 and has been a hit with critics for its heartfelt moments and down-to-earth humour. However, despite raving reviews, HBO decided not to have further seasons.

However, the decision wasn't sudden as the creators felt that the show's narrative had reached its conclusion.

HBO's Programming EVP, Amy Gravitt, said in an interview:

“Though it’s hard to say goodbye to these characters we hold dear, we’re grateful for this journey and the legacy Somebody Somewhere leaves behind.”

The show's masterminds, Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen, along with Bridget Everett, who plays the main character Sam, have all expressed their gratitude for the chance to bring this personal story to the small screen.

Bridget jokingly shared with Variety how saying goodbye feels a bit like:

“Having the best s*x of your life and then someone wanting to hold your hand.”

So, why did HBO call it quits after just three seasons? Possible reasons are explored below:

---

HBO’s strategy for niche programming

While the creators did not reveal why they thought the series should only have three seasons, it can be assumed that the decision can be partly owed to HBO's strategy. HBO tries to produce fresh stories, which means it is essential that the network constantly reinvents its shows. So that, no show exceeds its welcome. This is seemingly why they decided to end Somebody Somewhere with Season 3. This show is similar to HBO's other gems, Enlightened and Looking, which also got the axe despite being well-liked by critics and fans.

Another reason could be that with the constant competition from media giants like Netflix and Apple TV+, each network needs to produce stories that garner the numbers. While Somebody Somewhere is a great show, it is more of a small crowd-pleaser and does not bring in the numbers.

Even though Somebody Somewhere didn't need a Hollywood-sized budget to shine, enough audience must watch a show for the network to keep it going. So, even though it had a solid fanbase and good press, it might not have made as much sense to keep the show running forever.

Everett said on the show ending with only three seasons,

“Only HBO would have given this show three seasons, and we know that.”

---

The impact of Somebody Somewhere and what’s next?

Somebody Somewhere might have wrapped up, but it’s left a big mark on people’s hearts. It hit home for viewers with its honest look at loss, finding oneself, and learning to love oneself. Everett’s performance as Sam, who’s figuring out life back in her hometown in Kansas, was special—it felt like she was telling a story about all of us.

The show’s last season is about “growth against all odds,” as Everett said to Variety.

The show had a way of making you laugh and think at the same time. It had funny moments along with quiet, thoughtful ones, which made it feel so real. The way Everett clicked with the other actors, like Jeff Hiller, Mary Catherine Garrison, and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, added to that realness.

---

Watch every episode, including the third and last season, on HBO and Max.