HBO has canceled the lesbian period drama Gentleman Jack, but the BBC, a co-producer on the show, says there's still a chance for another season.
"HBO will not be moving forward with a third season of Gentleman Jack," the network said in a statement to Deadline Thursday. "When we began this journey more than five years ago, we knew the series' creator Sally Wainwright had a uniquely compelling vision, and it's been tremendously gratifying to see how Anne Lister's journey has resonated with viewers. We are incredibly grateful to Sally, to the impeccable Suranne Jones and Sophie Rundle, and to the entire cast and crew for bringing Anne and Ann's story to life. We'd also like to thank our partners at BBC and Lookout Point for their collaboration on two remarkable seasons."
The show, which premiered in 2019, is based on the diaries of real-life British lesbian Anne Lister, a.k.a. Gentleman Jack. Jones stars as Lister, a mountaineer, landowner, businesswoman, and prolific diarist who wrote coded entries about her sexual trysts and love affairs with women. Rundle plays Ann Walker, who marries Lister in a secret ceremony. The second season, with them setting up a home together and attempting to become a power couple despite society's disapproval, ended about a month ago.
But there's still hope for fans, who are hugely upset about the cancellation, U.K. publication Metro reports. "We are tremendously proud of Gentleman Jack, a show which has made a huge cultural impact, and we are in discussions with Sally about what's next," a BBC spokesperson told Metro.
Jones had told the publication earlier that Wainwright, also known for creating Happy Valley and Last Tango in Halifax, was definitely interested in another season. "I know all the fans really want it, Sally really wants to write it," Jones said.
On Instagram, Jones wrote, "While it is sad news Gentleman Jack will not be renewed, this show has brought so many together, enabled people to share their stories, brought joy, emotion and creativity and gave me a real connection to you as its audience.
"Anne Lister now has a statue in the Piece Hall. There is a Blue plaque in Holy Trinity church yard celebrating Anne and Ann's union in 1834. There is a college named after Anne Lister on the east campus at the University of York...I have never been involved in a show that has made such a huge impact and touched my heart like this one has. It wasn't always the easiest job I've had...but it was always worth it to see the response it got. THANK YOU for all your support."
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