Netflix viewers left 'disappointed' after gritty drama branded 'next Yellowstone' axed

Netflix viewers have voiced their disappointment after a show described as 'Australia's Yellowstone' was cancelled after just one series.

Despite good reviews and online buzz around Territory, Netflix confirmed that a second series would not be going ahead. The show, described as a cross between Succession and Yellowstone, was set in the harsh environment of the Australian outback.

The drama takes place at the world's largest cattle station, which has been owned by the Lawson family for generations. However, the sudden death of the family heir creates a question mark around the future of the station. With billions at stake, everyone from rival ranchers to local gangsters set out to get their hands on the property by any means necessary.

The show was filmed across the Northern Territory and South Australia, and directed by Greg McLean, who is best known for creating Aussie horror flicks including Wolf Creek and Rogue.

Territory also had a star studded cast that included Australian actor Anna Torv, known for starring in sci-fi show Fringe, Michael Dorman who was in series Wonderland, and Robert Taylor who previously starred in another neo-Western, Longmire.

Critics praised the drama and it holds an 86% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. Anthony Morris from ScreenHub said: "The sense that there’s a surprise around every corner helps Territory come across as more than just another scheming family saga."

While Michael Clark of the Epoch Times thought the series wrapped up nicely: "If the show has truly ended, I’m walking away satisfied. Closure is provided, although some could interpret the ending as a cliffhanger. Either way, a 2nd season could successfully continue the saga if handled with the same level of care and forethought."

Que Min Luu, Netflix’s director of content for Australia and New Zealand, released a statement confirming news of the show's cancellation: “We are incredibly thankful to have had the chance to work with the wonderful cast and production team to bring Territory and the stunning Australian outback into the homes of millions around the world. Although we won’t be continuing with another season, we eagerly anticipate working with all of them again in the future.”

Fans praised the show on X, formerly known as Twitter, with one saying: "TERRITORY is on Netflix and it’s a 10/10 series." When news of the cancellation broke, one viewer said: "It's truly a great show. I can't help but express my greatest disappointment." Another complained: "Why on earth have you cancelled "Territory"? You show so much s*** yet cancel really good shows. What's the point in airing them in the first place."

Watch all episodes of Territory on Netflix.