The curtains have closed for “Shining Vale” on Starz, as the network confirms the completion of its run with the conclusion of the second season. Despite co-creator Jeff Astrof initiating work on a potential third season, the series will not continue at Starz. However, Astrof remains optimistic, hoping to secure the show’s future with another platform.
Warner Bros. TV produced the horror comedy, with the Season 2 finale airing on December 1. Both seasons will be removed from the streaming service’s catalogue by the year’s end alongside the network’s decision to discontinue the show, citing insufficient viewership.
An insider revealed to Variety that “Shining Vale” struggled to amass a substantial audience, prompting the network’s decision to conclude the series.
Astrof conveyed the news via Instagram, posting a cast photo along with a caption expressing his gratitude for the experience. He urged viewers to catch the limited series on Starz before its removal, noting, “What an absolute joy I had working on this show. Not a single bad day. Please watch the STARZ (turns out limited) series Shining Vale by 12/31.”
In an exclusive statement to Variety, Astrof expressed mixed emotions, stating, “Given all the real heart-breaking news going on in the world right now, it would be inappropriate for me to say I’m heartbroken about Starz not picking up ‘Shining Vale’ for a Season 3. However, I have no problem saying I am crushed and deeply saddened by the news.”
He continued by acknowledging the efforts of the cast, crew, co-creator Sharon Horgan, and the talented female writers and directors who contributed to the show’s distinctive tone. Astrof added a personal touch, admitting, “Okay, maybe I am heartbroken — dammit! Of course, I’m hoping another streamer picks the show up as we still have lots of story to tell — and Season 3 has already been partially written.”
“Shining Vale,” crafted by Astrof and Sharon Horgan, revolved around a family relocating to a small town, dwelling in a haunted house where only the unfulfilled matriarch Pat, played by Courteney Cox in the first season, could see the ghosts. The second season witnessed her daughter, portrayed by Gus Birney, also witnessing supernatural occurrences.
Featuring Mira Sorvino as ghost Rosemary in the first season and portraying multiple characters in the subsequent installment, the series also starred Greg Kinnear, Judith Light, and Merrin Dungey.
Courteney Cox previously spoke about her attraction to the show’s blend of comedy and horror, remarking, “I mean, that’s just something you don’t ever think of and [Sharon] actually coined this phrase that she wanted to be like a ‘shit-com.’ That was a big draw for me. I read the script and thought, ‘I haven’t read anything like this.’”
