Netflix has cancelled its anime series Terminator Zero after just one season, despite plans for four more. Premiered in 2024, the show is set in 1997 Tokyo, where scientist Malcolm Lee develops an AI called Kokoro to rival Skynet. Malcolm and his three children are hunted by a robot assassin while a soldier from 2022 protects them.
Created by Mattson Tomlin, the series received strong critical and audience praise but failed to attract sufficient viewership. Tomlin confirmed the cancellation on Twitter/X, writing, “The reception was tremendous, but not nearly enough people watched it.” He added that the first season still feels complete despite the abrupt end.
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Tomlin revealed he had finished scripts for season two and outlined most of season three. He expressed hope the story could continue “in a different form” and promised to share his plans for the full five-season run in the future. Fans immediately reacted with disappointment and support, praising the series as a strong addition to the Terminator franchise.
Viewers highlighted the show’s faithfulness to the spirit of Terminator 1 and Terminator 2, describing it as “phenomenal” and “the best the franchise has produced in 20 years.” Many urged other platforms, like Amazon, to pick up the series to allow Tomlin to finish his vision.
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Terminator Zero remains available for streaming on Netflix. Despite its short run, the series has left a lasting impression on fans and may continue in another format if picked up elsewhere.