4 Reasons Narcos will not return for season 4 any time soon

Photo: Netflix’s Narcos/ Acquired from Netflix Media Center

 Narcos has experienced some negative buzz in the press following its season 3 release a few weeks ago that might stop production on the show’s future.

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Narcos released its third season in early September just as the series shifted its narrative from notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar to the Cali Cartel. The death of Pablo Escobar translated into the exits for Wagner Moura and Boyd Holbrook. Aside from the historical relevance of Agent Murphy, Holbrook most likely left the series due to his rising star status in Hollywood. Narcos lost crucial pieces of its original cast, so the show needed to reinvent itself in a sense since so many new pieces entered the picture.

Although fans on the internet seemed to enjoy the series, the most recent entry in the series did not receive nearly as much critical praise from the press or sustain coverage as long as its predecessors in years past. Narcos Season 3 possessed a buzz from press outlets and social media that lasted for its opening weekend. Aside from the recent controversy about the show, Narcos lacks coverage from press outlets that suggest that the show has been written off despite its arguable uptick in quality this season. The lack of obsession from fans and press might push Netflix to lean against renewing the series, especially with the budget required to maintain its quality.

In terms of budget, Narcos might have a problem with its blockbuster actor Pedro Pascal, who surely will have huge film roles in his future after his great television performances on Game of Thrones and Narcos. Similarly to Holbrook, the show just cannot retain big name actors due to salaries. The series will lose another crucial component, and this problem will reoccur with any actor most likely who steps into the series. The show offers an amazing opportunity to demonstrate one’s acting skills to carry an entire series and catch the eyes of directors, executives, and producers everywhere. Additionally, the ensemble cast means that many people must be paid, so a big budget actor could hurt the ability to compensate others at a rate that still yields profit for Netflix.

Photo: Netflix’s Narcos/ Acquired from Netflix Media CenterNARCOS

From a storytelling perspective, the writers painted a detailed portrait of Pablo Escobar that forced viewers to experience every aspect of the drug lord’s life. Now, the approach for the series seems to focus on organizations such as the Cali Cartel and recently rumored Juarez Cartel. This strategy divides screen time among many stars. The character development simply no longer exists to degree of the first two seasons where both the good and bad guys garnered much screen time. Thus, a shift back to the series’ earlier philosophy might benefit the show’s storytelling, yet the rumors seem set on an organizational approach.

Next: Narcos season three shocking moments

Lastly, the obvious reason Netflix might discontinue Narcos is due to the recent murder of a location scout on the job in Mexico. This event is obviously tragic, so everyone involved should evaluate the decision to advance the series. Pedro Pascal remarked that the show simply cannot continue if the environment for filming is unsafe. Above all else, safety issues can force a total shutdown.

Narcos is streaming all seasons on Netflix now. Be sure to tune in!