Peacock’s horror thriller series “Hysteria!” has unfortunately been canceled after just one season, as reported exclusively by Variety. The show premiered its single season on the streaming platform in October 2024, following a tumultuous production process that saw delays due to strikes from both writers and actors. Originally greenlit in August 2022, filming began in 2023 but had to be halted temporarily before resuming later in the year.
While Peacock does not disclose specific viewership numbers, “Hysteria!” did not manage to secure a spot on the weekly Nielsen Top 10 streaming charts upon its release. However, the series did receive praise from critics, holding a solid 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The show’s official synopsis reads as follows:
“When a popular high school quarterback goes missing during the ‘Satanic Panic’ of the late 1980s, a group of misfit high schoolers in a heavy metal band seizes the opportunity to ride the wave of occult fascination in their town by reinventing themselves as a Satanic metal band. But as a string of mysterious murders, abductions, and eerie occurrences grips the community, suspicions turn towards the band, sparking a witch hunt with chilling consequences.”
The ensemble cast featured familiar faces like Julie Bowen, Anna Camp, Emjay Anthony, Chiara Aurelia, Kezii Curtis, and Nikki Hahn in lead roles. Additionally, recurring appearances were made by Bruce Campbell, Garret Dillahunt, Nolan North, Elijah Richardson, Milly Shapiro, Allison Scagliotti, and Jessica Treska.
Behind the scenes, Matthew Scott Kane and David Goodman were the creative minds behind the series, serving as writers and executive producers. Joining them as executive producers were John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein, Chris Bender, and Jake Weiner, with Bender and Weiner representing Good Fear Content. Supervising producer duties were handled by Scott Stoops from Good Fear, while Jordan Vogt-Roberts not only executive produced but also directed the pilot and finale episodes. “Hysteria!” was produced under the banner of UCP.
Despite its critical acclaim, the cancellation of “Hysteria!” leaves fans disappointed and wondering what could have been in store for the intriguing and atmospheric series.
