When it comes to Netflix, not every gamble pays off. While the streaming giant has given us cultural juggernauts like Stranger Things and The Witcher, it has also churned out its fair share of duds.
For every series that takes the world by storm, there are shows and movies that land with a resounding thud, leaving viewers scratching their heads or reaching for the remote.
In this list, we’re diving into the 40 biggest Netflix flops of all time—those projects that started with promise but ended in disappointment. From ambitious adaptations that missed the mark to original ideas that fizzled out, these missteps remind us that not even Netflix’s robust algorithm can always predict a hit.
1. Cursed (2020)

The Arthurian legend is a timeless tale, but this retelling struggled to find its audience. Cursed attempted to merge fantasy with a modern twist, starring Katherine Langford as the Lady of the Lake.
Unfortunately, the show was unable to decide on its tone, wavering between dark fantasy and teen drama. This lack of direction left viewers confused about who the intended audience was. Critics highlighted these inconsistencies, leading to the series’ swift cancellation.
Adding to the show’s woes was an underwhelming storyline that failed to captivate or offer anything new to the beloved mythos. Audiences were left disappointed, and without a second season, many plot threads remain unresolved.
Despite having a promising premise, Cursed ended up being one of Netflix’s notable misfires, leaving fans wanting a more cohesive and thrilling narrative.
2. Jupiter’s Legacy (2021)

Superheroes have been dominating screens, but Jupiter’s Legacy failed to soar. This adaptation of Mark Millar’s comic series promised to blend family drama with superhero action. However, it fell flat due to its convoluted plot and lackluster character development.
While the series attempted to explore the complexities of legacy and power, it couldn’t quite deliver the punch needed to engage audiences fully.
Critics pointed out that the pacing was off, with too much focus on backstory and insufficient action to keep viewers hooked. This misalignment resulted in mixed reviews and a lack of strong fan support.
Ultimately, the show’s ambitious scope became its downfall, unable to match the quality of other superhero offerings. After just one season, it was cancelled, leaving behind a world that viewers weren’t invested in exploring further.
3. Resident Evil (2022)

Adapting popular video games into live-action can be a tricky business, and Resident Evil’s Netflix venture is a testament to that. This series deviated significantly from its source material, alienating fans who craved the suspense and horror of the video games.
Instead of a gripping narrative, viewers were given a disjointed storyline that failed to capture the essence of Resident Evil.
The decision to focus on new characters and plotlines didn’t resonate with the franchise’s established fanbase. Critics were quick to point out the show’s weak writing and lack of thrilling moments.
Despite the potential for creating a chilling atmosphere and compelling horror, Resident Evil was ultimately unable to escape the shadow of its more successful predecessors, resulting in its cancellation after just one season.
4. Cowboy Bebop (2021)

The beloved anime Cowboy Bebop’s live-action adaptation had fans both excited and anxious. Unfortunately, their fears were realized when the series failed to capture the original’s magic.
While the show attempted to stay true to its source, it fell short in translating the anime’s unique style and storytelling to live-action.
Fans and critics alike found the series lacking in the depth and flair that made the anime a classic. The chemistry between characters was off, and the pacing uneven, detracting from the overall experience.
Despite its high production values and the nostalgic appeal, Cowboy Bebop stumbled, unable to live up to its legacy. The series was canceled after just one season, leaving fans wishing it had stayed in its original animated form.
5. Emily in Paris (2020)

Emily in Paris might be a guilty pleasure for some, but it faced its share of criticism. The series follows Emily, an American marketing executive, navigating her new life in Paris.
While it quickly gained popularity, it was criticized for perpetuating clichés and offering a superficial portrayal of French culture.
The show’s depiction of Parisians and their lifestyle felt outdated, leading to backlash from French critics and viewers. Despite its picturesque settings and fashion-forward aesthetic, the narrative lacked depth, relying too heavily on stereotypes.
However, the catchy theme and light-hearted premise kept many viewers entertained. Emily in Paris serves as a reminder that popularity doesn’t always equate to critical success, and sometimes, a little cultural nuance goes a long way.
6. Rebecca (2020)

Remaking a classic is always a risk, and Rebecca’s 2020 iteration didn’t quite pay off. This adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s novel attempted to recapture the suspense and romance of the original story. Despite its ambition, the film was met with a lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences.
Many felt the new Rebecca lacked the emotional depth and tension that made Hitchcock’s version a masterpiece. The performances, while competent, did not leave a lasting impact, and the film struggled to justify its own existence.
Ultimately, this version of Rebecca felt more like a missed opportunity than a fresh take. It was criticized for being visually stunning but emotionally hollow, failing to provide the haunting experience viewers hoped for.
7. Persuasion (2022)

Adapting Jane Austen is no small feat, and the 2022 version of Persuasion struggled to win over critics and viewers. While the film aimed to modernize Austen’s classic with a fresh perspective, it failed to strike the right balance between tradition and innovation.
Fans of Austen’s work found the interpretation too contemporary, losing the subtlety and wit characteristic of the author’s writing. The film’s narrative struggled to maintain the emotional depth of the original novel, leaving audiences disconnected.
Despite its beautiful cinematography and ambitious direction, Persuasion fell short in delivering a compelling retelling of a beloved story.
8. Space Force (2020-2022)

Space Force, starring Steve Carell, aimed to satirize the politics of space exploration but struggled to find its comedic footing. The series followed a newly-formed branch of the military tasked with establishing a presence in space.
Despite its star-studded cast and high production values, the show didn’t quite lift off as expected.
Critics noted that the humor often missed its mark, and the plotlines were inconsistent. The series failed to fully capitalize on its comedic potential, leading to a mixed reception.
After two seasons, Space Force was canceled, unable to establish itself as a must-watch comedy. It serves as a reminder that even with big names involved, a show still needs strong writing and direction to succeed.
9. Insatiable (2018-2019)

Insatiable sought to make a statement but ended up courting controversy. This dark comedy followed Patty, a high schooler-turned-beauty queen, as she navigated a world full of revenge and redemption. Critics and viewers criticized the series for its handling of sensitive topics like body image and bullying.
The show aimed to satirize beauty standards but was perceived as tone-deaf and offensive by many. The backlash overshadowed any positive reception, with viewers questioning its intent and message.
Despite a strong cast and moments of wit, Insatiable couldn’t shake off its controversial reputation. The series was canceled after two seasons, leaving behind discussions about the balance between satire and sensitivity in modern storytelling.
10. The Get Down (2016-2017)

Set in the 1970s Bronx, this series followed a group of young artists navigating a changing musical landscape. Despite its ambitious scope, the show struggled with high production costs and a complicated narrative structure.
Although it boasted a unique visual style and celebrated an important cultural era, reviews were mixed. Some praised its creativity, while others found it chaotic and hard to follow.
Ultimately, The Get Down was a financial strain for Netflix, leading to its cancellation after one season. It remains a testament to the streaming service’s willingness to take risks, even if they don’t always succeed.
11. The Ranch (2016-2020)

The Ranch, a sitcom set on a Colorado cattle ranch, attempted to blend comedy with heartfelt family drama. Starring Ashton Kutcher, the series explored the complexities of family relationships but received mixed reviews over its run.
While some viewers appreciated its blend of humor and emotion, others criticized it for being formulaic and lacking depth. The show’s political undertones and handling of sensitive topics also sparked debate among audiences.
Though it managed to sustain a dedicated fan base, The Ranch never quite became a critical darling. It concluded after four seasons, leaving behind a legacy of being a steady, if not groundbreaking, Netflix original.
12. Flaked (2016-2017)

Starring Will Arnett, Flaked tried to capture the laid-back yet complicated life of a self-help guru in Venice Beach. The dramedy aimed to explore themes of identity and redemption but struggled to resonate with audiences.
Critics pointed out the series’ lackluster storytelling and underdeveloped characters, which left viewers unsatisfied. Despite its potential to delve into meaningful subject matter, Flaked often felt superficial.
The combination of a relatable setting and a charismatic lead couldn’t save the show from criticism. It lasted two seasons before being canceled, remembered more for its missed opportunities than its achievements.
13. Marco Polo (2014-2016)

Marco Polo was an ambitious historical drama that aimed to depict the legendary traveler’s adventures in the Mongol Empire. Despite its lavish production, the series was met with a lukewarm reception.
Critics pointed to its slow pacing and lack of engaging storytelling as significant drawbacks. While visually stunning and culturally rich, the series struggled to maintain viewers’ interest across its lengthy episodes.
Ultimately, the show’s high production costs became unsustainable, and Marco Polo was canceled after two seasons. It remains a reminder that even grand ambitions need the support of compelling narratives to truly succeed.
14. True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016)

This movie, starring Kevin James, attempted to blend action and comedy, but it largely missed the mark. The film followed a mild-mannered writer who becomes embroiled in a real-life adventure he never signed up for.
Critics were largely unimpressed, citing a lack of originality and weak humor as major drawbacks. The film’s reliance on tired action-comedy tropes left audiences without much to hold onto.
Despite its promising premise and comedic star, True Memoirs didn’t elevate itself beyond a mediocre Netflix offering. It serves as an example of how even star power can’t always save a poorly-received production.
15. The Ridiculous 6 (2015)

The Ridiculous 6, an Adam Sandler-led Western comedy, was panned by critics upon release. Despite its comedic intentions, the film was criticized for its offensive humor and lack of coherent storyline.
Viewers found the jokes to be crude and outdated, overshadowing any potential charm the film could have had. The ensemble cast couldn’t overcome the limitations of the script, resulting in a forgettable viewing experience.
Although it garnered attention due to controversy, The Ridiculous 6 serves as a reminder that humor can be subjective, and not all comedic endeavors hit their target. Netflix’s investment in this film didn’t pay off in the way they hoped.
16. Iron Fist (2017-2018)

Iron Fist was part of Netflix’s collaboration with Marvel, but it didn’t quite match the success of its counterparts. The series followed Danny Rand, a martial artist with mystical powers, as he returned to New York to reclaim his family’s fortune.
Critics cited the series’ weak storyline, poor pacing, and lackluster fight choreography as significant drawbacks. Despite its intriguing premise, Iron Fist failed to capture the excitement and depth typical of Marvel’s other offerings.
The show was unable to overcome its initial negative reception, leading to its cancellation after two seasons. Iron Fist stands as a lesson in the importance of strong character development and engaging action within the superhero genre.
17. Between (2015-2016)

This sci-fi thriller explored the aftermath of a mysterious disease affecting a small town. The premise held potential, but the series struggled to deliver a compelling narrative.
Critics pointed out the show’s weak acting, inconsistent pacing, and lack of depth in its storytelling. Despite its intriguing setup, Between couldn’t maintain the tension or provide satisfying character arcs.
The series was canceled after two seasons, unable to build a strong fanbase or critical acclaim. Between serves as an example of how a promising idea can falter without the support of strong execution and engaging characters.
18. Gypsy (2017)

Starring Naomi Watts, Gypsy attempted to explore the complexities of identity and desire through the lens of a therapist. The psychological thriller had potential but ultimately fell flat with both critics and audiences.
Many viewers found the pacing sluggish and the plot unengaging, struggling to invest in the characters’ journeys. The show’s attempts at intrigue and suspense were overshadowed by a lack of narrative cohesion.
Despite its star power and thematic ambition, Gypsy couldn’t sustain interest and was canceled after one season. It highlights the challenge of crafting compelling psychological drama that resonates with viewers.
19. Friends from College (2017-2019)

Friends from College attempted to capture the complexities of adult friendships with a comedic touch. The series followed a group of college friends as they navigated the ups and downs of life in their 30s.
Despite its talented ensemble cast, the show struggled to find its footing. Critics pointed out that the humor often fell flat, and the characters’ likability was inconsistent.
Although it had moments of relatability and wit, Friends from College couldn’t fully capitalize on its premise, leading to its cancellation after two seasons. It serves as a reminder that even relatable themes need strong execution to truly resonate with audiences.
20. The Midnight Club (2022)

A horror series, The Midnight Club tried to deliver chills and thrills but struggled to make a lasting impact. The premise involved a group of terminally ill teenagers telling ghost stories at midnight.
While the series had moments of intrigue, it faced challenges with pacing and character development. Critics and viewers alike found the narrative lacking in depth and suspense.
Despite its unique premise, The Midnight Club couldn’t maintain audience interest and was canceled after one season. The show serves as a reminder that even with a captivating concept, execution is key to keeping viewers engaged.
21. Atlas (2023)

This sci-fi film starring Jennifer Lopez aimed to explore themes of identity and technology but fell short in execution. Despite its high-profile lead, the film was criticized for its predictable plot and lackluster writing.
Viewers found the narrative unoriginal, failing to offer new insights or compelling twists within the genre. The film’s exploration of futuristic themes felt superficial, unable to engage audiences or critics deeply.
Ultimately, Atlas couldn’t rise above its shortcomings, leaving viewers with a forgettable experience. It underscores the importance of fresh storytelling and depth, even with star power involved.
22. Bad Samaritans (2013)

Bad Samaritans, a dark comedy series, aimed to entertain with its quirky premise but ultimately didn’t resonate with audiences. The show followed a group of misfit do-gooders trying to navigate their community service sentences.
Critics pointed out that the humor often felt forced, and the characters lacked the depth needed to engage viewers. Despite its comedic potential, the series struggled to rise above its simplistic setup.
Bad Samaritans was canceled after one season, highlighting the difficulty of balancing humor with character development and plot. It serves as a reminder that even a fun concept needs solid execution to succeed.
23. Chelsea (2016-2017)

A talk show hosted by Chelsea Handler, it aimed to offer a fresh take on late-night talk formats. Despite its innovative approach, the show struggled to find its audience.
Critics and viewers felt the series lacked the engaging spark necessary to make it a must-watch. The show’s format and structure often felt disjointed, leading to a mixed reception.
After two seasons, Chelsea was canceled, illustrating the challenge of standing out in the competitive world of talk shows. It underscores the importance of a clear vision and consistent appeal to capture and retain viewers.
24. Disjointed (2017-2018)

Disjointed, a comedy series set in a cannabis dispensary, aimed to capitalize on the growing interest in cannabis culture. However, the show struggled to find its comedic footing.
Critics pointed out that the humor often felt forced and relied too heavily on clichés. While the premise had potential, the execution left much to be desired, resulting in a lack of engagement from viewers.
After just one season, Disjointed was canceled, serving as a reminder of the importance of originality and depth in comedy. The series highlighted the challenge of creating relatable humor without resorting to overused tropes.
25. Haters Back Off (2016-2017)

Based on the popular YouTube character Miranda Sings, Haters Back Off ventured into the world of streaming with mixed results. The comedy series followed the eccentric Miranda as she pursued fame despite her lack of talent.
While the character had a dedicated online following, the transition to a full-length series faced challenges. Critics noted that the humor, while quirky, often felt repetitive, limiting broader appeal.
Despite its unique premise, Haters Back Off was unable to sustain viewership and was canceled after two seasons.
26. Fuller House (2016-2020)

Fuller House aimed to tap into nostalgia with the continuation of the beloved sitcom Full House. While it found an initial audience, the series struggled to maintain critical acclaim.
Critics often cited a reliance on recycled storylines and humor as drawbacks, leading to mixed reviews. Despite this, the show maintained a dedicated fan base that appreciated its family-friendly charm.
Fuller House concluded after five seasons, serving as a reminder of the balance between nostalgia and innovation in television. It underscores that while nostalgia can attract viewers, fresh content is key to sustaining interest.
27. The I-Land (2019)

The show followed a group of strangers waking up on a deserted island with no memory of how they got there.
Critics and audiences criticized the series for its confusing plot and lack of character development. Despite its ambitious premise, the show failed to maintain intrigue or provide satisfying answers.
The I-Land was canceled after one season, highlighting the importance of coherent storytelling and engaging characters in maintaining viewer interest. It serves as an example of how ambition alone isn’t enough to ensure success.
28. Ratched (2020)

A prequel to “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” Ratched generated initial curiosity but struggled to deliver on its promise. The series focused on the origin of the infamous Nurse Ratched, diving into her complex psyche.
Despite a strong start, Ratched faced criticism for its uneven pacing and melodramatic tone. The show couldn’t sustain the suspense needed to keep audiences engaged throughout.
While it boasted impressive performances and visual flair, Ratched ultimately couldn’t maintain its momentum.
29. Death Note (2017)

Death Note, a live-action adaptation of the popular anime, faced high expectations but failed to meet them. The film attempted to condense the anime’s complex storyline into a feature-length format, which proved challenging.
Fans criticized the significant deviations from the source material, which diluted the original’s intense psychological drama. The film struggled to capture the intricate cat-and-mouse dynamics that made the anime a classic.
30. Bright (2017)

This fantasy-action film was set in a world where mythical creatures exist alongside humans, following two unlikely partners.
Critics pointed to a messy storyline and lack of coherent world-building as significant issues. Despite its high viewership, the film couldn’t escape criticism for its uneven tone and underdeveloped plot.
While Bright boasted an intriguing premise and star power, it ultimately fell short of its potential.
31. The Cloverfield Paradox (2018)

The Cloverfield Paradox, released with a surprise marketing strategy, aimed to expand the Cloverfield universe but struggled to do so effectively. The film followed a group of astronauts dealing with unexpected consequences from an experiment in space.
Critics cited the film’s convoluted plot and lack of connection to the larger Cloverfield narrative as major drawbacks. Despite its ambitious scope, the movie failed to deliver a cohesive and engaging story.
While the marketing tactic generated initial buzz, The Cloverfield Paradox ultimately couldn’t sustain interest, serving as a reminder of the importance of substance over hype.
32. Outlaw King (2018)

Outlaw King, a historical drama, aimed to depict the story of Robert the Bruce with cinematic flair. Despite high expectations, the film received a lukewarm reception.
Critics noted issues with pacing and storytelling, which impacted the film’s ability to fully engage audiences. While the battle scenes were praised for their intensity, the narrative struggled to maintain momentum.
33. The Order (2019-2020)

While The Order had moments of intrigue, critics pointed out its inconsistent tone and underdeveloped characters. The series couldn’t fully capitalize on its supernatural premise, leaving viewers wanting more depth and coherence.
After two seasons, The Order was canceled, serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining narrative consistency and character development in genre storytelling.
34. Daybreak (2019)

Daybreak attempted to infuse humor into the post-apocalyptic genre but faced challenges in maintaining audience engagement. The series followed a group of teenagers navigating a world overrun by zombies and social cliques.
Despite its unique approach, critics noted that the show’s tone was inconsistent, fluctuating between comedy and drama. This inconsistency made it difficult for audiences to connect with the story and characters.
Daybreak was canceled after one season, highlighting the importance of tonal consistency and strong character arcs in creating a successful series.
35. Teenage Bounty Hunters (2020)

Despite its fresh premise and positive reviews, the series struggled with low viewership.
Critics praised the show’s witty dialogue and chemistry between the lead characters, but it couldn’t translate into widespread success. The series’ unique blend of comedy and drama failed to capture a broad audience.
After just one season, Teenage Bounty Hunters was canceled.
36. Sense8 (2015-2018)

Sense8, a sci-fi series, boasted a dedicated fanbase but faced financial hurdles due to its high production costs. The show followed eight strangers from around the world who suddenly become mentally linked.
Despite its ambitious storytelling and diverse representation, the series struggled to justify its expenses. Critics and fans praised its innovative narrative and global scope but acknowledged the financial strain it placed on Netflix.
After two seasons, Sense8 was ultimately canceled, highlighting the challenges of balancing creative vision with budgetary constraints.
37. Away (2020)

This space drama starring Hilary Swank aimed to blend human emotion with the vastness of space but struggled to resonate with audiences. The series followed an international crew on a mission to Mars, exploring the personal sacrifices involved.
Critics noted the series’ slow pacing and lack of compelling character development, which impacted its ability to maintain viewer interest. Despite its intriguing premise, the emotional depth needed to engage audiences was lacking.
38. Hit & Run (2021)

Hit & Run, an Israeli-American thriller, aimed to captivate audiences with its intense plot but faced challenges in maintaining momentum. The series followed a man’s search for answers after his wife’s mysterious death.
While the show had moments of tension and intrigue, critics pointed out issues with pacing and narrative coherence. The series struggled to keep viewers consistently engaged, despite its promising setup.
39. The Crew (2021)

A sitcom set in the world of NASCAR? Sounds like a great idea! However, while The Crew aimed to offer laughs, it struggled to hit the mark.
Despite its unique setting, critics noted that the humor often felt forced and the characters lacked depth. The series couldn’t fully capitalize on its NASCAR backdrop, leaving viewers wanting more engaging content.
After one season, The Crew was canceled, serving as a reminder of the importance of strong writing and character development in comedy. It highlights the challenge of creating relatable humor in niche settings.
40. The Irregulars (2021)

The Irregulars, a supernatural twist on the Sherlock Holmes universe, struggled to find its footing despite its intriguing premise. The series followed a group of street-savvy teens solving paranormal crimes in Victorian London.
Critics pointed out issues with pacing and character development, which impacted the show’s ability to maintain viewer interest. Despite its unique angle on the Holmesian world, the series couldn’t fully engage its audience.
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