Netflix Officially Cancels The Waterfront Season 2

Netflix confirmed on August 25, 2025, that it will not renew the Kevin Williamson-created crime drama The Waterfront for a second season. The streaming service informed cast and crew of the decision following a single eight-episode run that debuted on June 19, 2025.

The Waterfront centered on the Buckley family’s North Carolina fishing empire and its descent into illicit drug trafficking. Despite spending five consecutive weeks in Netflix’s Top 10 English-language series-including three weeks at No. 1-and amassing 11.6 million views in its first full week, the show fell short of the streamer’s renewal benchmarks.

In a statement shared via Instagram Stories, creator Kevin Williamson expressed gratitude to viewers and collaborators: “While I’m saddened that the Buckleys won’t return for Season 2, I’m celebrating the joy that was Season 1. It was one of the best experiences of my life!”

According to Deadline, Netflix’s renewal decisions hinge on a combination of viewership, completion rates, production costs, and social-media engagement. Although The Waterfront achieved favorable completion rates, executives determined that its overall performance did not justify the expense of a second season.

The cancellation follows a broader trend of Netflix investing in regional productions yet opting not to continue series that do not surpass high viewership thresholds. Local incentives in North Carolina had bolstered the show’s production footprint, but ultimately could not sway Netflix’s choice.

Cast members also reacted to the news on social media, with Holt McCallany (Harlan Buckley) and Maria Bello (Belle Buckley) sharing appreciation for the project’s creative team and fans. The series remains available for streaming on Netflix.