Peacock has axed another series as they’ve cancelled Rutherford Falls after two seasons. The comedy series starred Ed Helms and Jana Schmieding as two lifelong friends whose relationship is tested when a crisis hits their small town.
Rutherford Falls was critically acclaimed and hailed for its Indigenous representation both on camera on behind-the-scenes. Despite the rave reviews, sources have said there was a real lack of viewership, prompting Peacock to cancel the series. Sierra Teller Ornelas, who co-created Rutherford Falls with Ed Helms and Mike Schur, commented on the cancellation in a statement.
It’s been a true joy to make these two seasons of Rutherford Falls. Mike Schur, Ed Helms and I set out to make something new, real, and smart—but also dumb—that made you cry and think, but also laugh when Reagan got kicked in the face or Nathan was stuffed into a coffin. Borrowing a line from Terry Thomas, played by the ridiculously talented Michael Greyeyes, before our show, “Native representation [was], for the most part, a hate crime.” Which is why it’s been an honor to introduce the best of Indian Country to the masses.
Ornelas added that they’re already looking at other platforms to rescue Rutherford Falls. “We remain overwhelmed by the critical response, garnering a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score in our second season,” Ornelas said, “and while we’re sad that our time at Peacock has come to an end, we are immensely grateful to them for picking us up and showcasing the talents of comedy legend Ed Helms and breakout stars like Jana Schmieding, Jesse Leigh, Dana Wilson, Dallas Goldtooth, Kaniehtiio Horn, and many others. We love these characters, the world we created, and the impact it has had, and will be exploring other platforms where, hopefully, the folks of Rutherford Falls can call home.” Ed Helms played Nathan Rutherford, a proud descendant of the town’s founder who runs the heritage museum. Jana Schmieding played Reagan Walls, Nathan’s best friend who dreams of championing the history of her people, the Minishonka nation.
How do you feel about Rutherford Falls getting cancelled?