The curtain has closed on “Our Flag Means Death” as HBO Max has decided to cancel the pirate comedy after its two-season run on the streaming platform. The series made its debut in March 2022, followed by its second season launch in October 2023.
In an official statement, a spokesperson for HBO Max expressed pride in the creative achievements of the show, acknowledging the vibrant and heartfelt stories brought to life by creator David Jenkins, Taika Waititi, Rhys Darby, Garrett Basch, Dan Halsted, Adam Stein, Antoine Douaihy, and the entire talented cast and crew. The spokesperson also extended gratitude to the devoted fanbase whose enthusiasm contributed to building a warm and inclusive community around the series.
Rhys Darby led the series, supported by an ensemble cast including Samson Kayo, Vico Ortiz, Ewen Bremner, Joel Fry, Matthew Maher, Kristian Nairn, Con O’Neill, David Fane, Samba Schutte, Nat Faxon, and Leslie Jones.
Loosely based on the adventures of the 18th-century pirate Stede Bonnet, portrayed by Darby, the show’s Season 2 storyline explored Stede’s transition from a genteel existence to that of a daring buccaneer, eventually becoming captain of the pirate ship Revenge. The narrative revolved around Stede’s struggles to earn his crew’s respect while encountering the notorious Captain Blackbeard, played by Taika Waititi, leading to an unexpected bond between the divergent characters.
David Jenkins, the series creator, served as executive producer and showrunner while directing several episodes. Waititi also contributed as an executive producer alongside Garrett Basch, Dan Halsted, Adam Stein, and Antoine Douaihy.
In an interview linked to the Season 2 finale, Jenkins discussed his vision for a potential third season, indicating that he saw a trilogy structure as ideal for the show’s narrative arc. He emphasized the satisfying three-act structure and hinted at the possibility of exploring the show’s world in a different manner if the third season proved successful. However, he believed that the tale of Stede and Ed should conclude within a three-season arc to maintain narrative integrity.
