There’s a possibility that Heels could make a comeback in the ring. According to The Hollywood Reporter, after being abruptly axed alongside a few other shows during Starz’s cleanup in September, the drama has found a new home on Netflix through Lionsgate Worldwide Television Distribution. Under this deal, Netflix gains nonexclusive rights to the entire two-season, 16-episode collection of the wrestling drama featuring Stephen Amell (Arrow, The Flash) and Alexander Ludwig (Vikings, The Hunger Games).
Sources relay to The Hollywood Reporter that although Netflix hasn’t committed to renewing the series, there’s possibility of doing so if Heels gains traction on the platform. However, these sources also caution that even if the show succeeds, a third season could pose logistical challenges. Amell, a fervent wrestling enthusiast known for performing his own stunts on Heels, recently signed on as the lead for NBC’s highly anticipated spinoff of Suits in February. This offshoot, titled Suits: L.A., is among just five pilots currently in development at NBC. Given the original show’s impressive performance on Netflix, Suits: L.A. is widely anticipated to receive a series order from NBC, prioritizing Amell’s commitments.
Adding to the complexity is Ludwig’s schedule availability. The actor is slated to lead the cast in the six-episode MGM+ sci-fi drama Earth Abides, a modern interpretation of George R. Stewart’s (Ordeal by Hunger) classic.
Heels finds a natural fit on Netflix. According to The Hollywood Reporter, negotiations for the series have been ongoing for several months, with Lionsgate Television immediately seeking new home for the show after its cancellation last year. The addition of Heels will complement WWE’s Monday Night Raw when the franchise debuts on Netflix in January 2025. This follows Netflix securing WWE rights earlier this January as part of a substantial five billion rights agreement, solidifying its place as the new home for the former USA Network staple over the next decade.
In the realm of sports and sports-adjacent content, Netflix has been actively expanding its offerings this year. Alongside producing its own live sports events, the streaming service has partnered with Major League Baseball and the National Football League on docuseries, capitalizing on the success of originals such as Drive to Survive.
The Hollywood Reporter states the agreement for Heels exemplifies Netflix’s openness to licensing “gently used” programming that may have aired elsewhere at a reduced cost. This approach, which became more prevalent during the COVID-era production hiatus, has also led to success stories, with canceled shows gaining momentum on larger platforms. Netflix has breathed new life into several broadcast shows after their cancellation, and the pairing with Heels could serve as a compelling example of the streaming giant’s potential impact post-Monday Night Raw, showcasing the effectiveness of its algorithms.
Regarding Starz, the premium cable network is presently undergoing a separation from its parent company, Lionsgate, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Most of the scripted original series on the network, overseen by Jeff Hirsch, are produced by Lionsgate Television. These include popular titles like the Power franchise, acclaimed series P-Valley, BMF, and the anticipated revival of Spartacus.