Over the past two decades, Seth MacFarlane has produced, written, and starred in numerous comedies on and off the big screen. For one of his projects though, the end could be near.

According to The Cinema Spot, MacFarlane’s most recent live-action production The Orville has not been renewed for a fourth season by Hulu. While most might think that this means the show is cancelled, it doesn’t seem like a fourth season was ever really planned. The show was renewed before the Disney/Fox merger. As a result, some insiders believe that the company may not want to continue production past the upcoming third season.

Production on Season 3 is currently on hold due to the pandemic, but it is expected to resume soon.

One anonymous source close to the production that spoke with us says that Season 3 will be the best one yet, but fans should expect it to maintain the more serious tone it developed over the course of Season 2. 

The series, which was MacFarlane’s passion project for many years prior to its inception, is a science fiction dramedy that dons its Star Trek influence as a badge of honor. Set approximately 400 years in the future, the show follows the crew of the USS Orville as they adjust to life in space, while constantly dealing with various cosmic threats. MacFarlane currently stars alongside the likes of Adrianne Palicki, Penny Johnson Jerald, and Scott Grimes. The show has also had cameos from high profile actors such as Charlize Theron, Ted Danson, and F. Murray Abraham.

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 08: Seth MacFarlane speaks onstage during the 33rd American Cinematheque Award Presentation Honoring Charlize Theron at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on November 08, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Now, while it may not be as popular or mainstream as some of MacFarlane’s scripted animated series such as Family Guy and American Dad, it’s developed a cult following. Because his other attempts at live action comedy on the small screen (The Winner and Dads) swiftly failed, it’s easily his most successful live action series to date. 

The Orville‘s ratings actually increased throughout its second season, which means that regardless of what fate has in store for the show, it will continue to be remembered as anything but a waste of space.

Source: The Cinema Spot