Streaming giant Syfy cuts season three of Resident Alien down from 12 episodes to only eight. As stated by Deadline, the show received a 12 episode renewal of season three back in July, but has since been reduced to eight episodes.
The science-fiction show, created by Chris Sheridan (Family Guy) is based on the comic book by Peter Hogan (Tom Strong) and Steve Parkhouse (Doctor Who Classics). Resident Alien follows an alien, played by Alan Tudyk (Harley Quinn) who has crash-landed on earth, secretly plotting to wipe out mankind. After crashing in a small Colorado town, the alien takes over the identity of Dr. Harry Vanderspeigle, blending in with the rest of the humans. Ultimately, Harry ends up facing an internal conflict as he spends more time with humans, debating on whether or not he should follow through with his original mission. Things are further complicated as an assistant to the doctor, played by Sara Tomko (Once Upon a Time), discovers “Harry’s” true identity.
Season three of Syfy’s hit Resident Alien will be the shortest of the three seasons. Season one comprised 10 episodes, while the second season had 16 episodes split into two different parts.
Resident Alien premiered in 2021, earning a “certified fresh” rating from Rotten Tomatoes. Season one was an immediate success, as was the first half of season two. However, ratings plummeted after part two of season two. Even though ratings dipped, Resident Alien was re-nominated for the Hollywood Critics Association TV’s Best Cable Comedy Series award. According to Collider, the show also received its first Saturn Awards nomination during this period of low ratings.
The decision by Syfy to cut down the third season seems to be a method of risk management and cost reduction. No premier date has been set for season three, but production is said to begin in early 2023, via Syfy.