Queen Sono is the latest Netflix series to be axed due to production challenges surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The show was Netflix’s first script-to-screen original series out of the continent of Africa. Starring Pearl Thusi, the series followed Queen Sono, “the highly trained top spy in a South African agency whose purpose is to better the lives of African citizens. While taking on her most dangerous mission yet, she must also face changing relationships in her personal life.”
Thusi, Vuyo Dabula, Sechaba Morojele, Chi Mhende, Loyiso Madinga, Rob Van Vuuren, Kate Liquorish, Khathu Ramabulana and Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa were all expected to return in the new season, which would have seen “Queen search for the truth as her newfound need for revenge takes her on a mission across Africa. All while she deals with her family’s past and her complicated love life.”
Netflix told Channel24, “We’ve made the difficult decision not to move forward with season 2 of Queen Sono. We are incredibly proud of the Diprente team for sharing their audacious vision and bringing it to life with Netflix. A huge thank you to our fans across the world for the love shared for our first African Original series. Netflix is also grateful to the amazing efforts shown by the cast and crew for their stellar efforts in creating this show for our members around the world.”
“We wrote a beautiful story that spanned the continent but unfortunately could not be executed in these current trying times,” said writer and director Kagiso Lediga.
Thusi said, “It’s so incredible that we as a team got a lifetime opportunity to make history together as there will never be another ‘first’ African Netflix original series. I’m proud of the work we did, but everything happens for a reason. I am excited about what the future holds.”
Blood & Water, Netflix’s second script-to-screen original out of Africa, was also renewed for season 2 and is currently in production.
Queen Sono‘s cancellation follows the axing of I Am Not Okay with This and The Society, which were also canceled due to restraints put on production.
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