Netflix cancels critically acclaimed military drama 'Boots'

Netflix has cancelled its critically acclaimed military drama Boots after just one season, despite strong viewership, positive reviews and significant cultural impact. The series, which debuted on 9 October 2025, was based on Greg Cope White’s memoir The Pink Marine and followed closeted teenager Cameron Cope as he navigated life in a 1990s U.S. Marine Corps boot camp, when being openly gay in the military was still illegal. 

During its launch period, Boots quickly became one of Netflix’s most‑watched shows. It spent four weeks in the Global Top 10, peaking at No. 2, and amassed 9.4 million views in its first full week - double its debut numbers. The series earned a Certified Fresh 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes from both critics and audiences. Despite this momentum, Netflix opted not to move forward with a second season.

Sources familiar with the decision described the cancellation as “not straightforward”. Sony Pictures Television, the studio behind the series, had extended multiple cast options in August 2025 in hopes of securing a renewal, signalling internal support for continuation. However, these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. 

Boots became a lightning rod for political controversy shortly after its release. Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson criticised the series, labelling it “woke garbage” and accusing Netflix of prioritising ideology over standards. The remarks drew national attention and, paradoxically, contributed to a spike in viewership, doubling its weekly figures.

The cancellation prompted strong reactions from fans and members of the cast. Actor Jack Cameron Kay said he was “sad” but “proud” of the show and noted that viewers were “absolutely shocked” by the news. Fellow cast member Angus O’Brien expressed gratitude to fans and colleagues, emphasising the show’s personal and artistic significance. 

Although some viewers hoped the series might find a new home, this appears unlikely. Netflix’s strict exclusivity terms mean that cancelled series cannot be shopped to rival streamers, effectively closing the door on a potential revival. This contractual limitation has been widely criticised by fans who feel the show was ended prematurely despite demonstrated popularity. 

Boots holds particular significance as the final television project championed by legendary producer Norman Lear before his death in December 2023. Lear’s involvement brought prestige to the series, which sought to blend humour, heart and social commentary while spotlighting an underrepresented chapter of LGBTQ+ military history.