The Real Reason Why NBC Canceled “A.D.: The Bible Continues”

NBC has decided to pull the plug on “A.D.: The Bible Continues” after only one season.

According to Variety, NBC has canceled “A.D.: The Bible Continues” due to low ratings.

In 2015, NBC introduced “A.D.: The Bible Continues,” a sequel to the hugely popular 2013 miniseries “The Bible,” produced by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey. While the series aimed to capture the dramatic and tumultuous early years of Christianity, it struggled to maintain a strong viewership, ultimately leading to its cancellation after just one season. Despite this setback, the story of “A.D.” is far from over, as Burnett and Downey prepare to breathe new life into the series through an innovative digital platform.

A Promising Start

“A.D.: The Bible Continues” picked up where “The Bible” left off, focusing on the events that followed the crucifixion of Jesus. The show aimed to provide a detailed look at the struggles and triumphs of his disciples as they spread his teachings and laid the foundation for what would become Christianity. With an ensemble cast featuring Juan Pablo Di Pace as Jesus, alongside Richard Coyle, James Callis, and others, the series had the star power and dramatic depth to potentially replicate the success of its predecessor.

Struggling Ratings and Cancellation

Despite the initial excitement, “A.D.” averaged about 6.5 million viewers per episode and scored a modest 1.0 rating in the key 18-49 demographic, according to live-plus-7 Nielsen ratings. These numbers were considered too low for NBC, leading to the show’s cancellation. The news was a disappointment to fans who had embraced the series for its engaging storytelling and historical insights.

A New Digital Horizon

Undeterred by the cancellation, Burnett and Downey saw an opportunity to continue telling this important story. They planned to use “A.D.” as a cornerstone for a new digital channel, a project stemming from their partnership with MGM and the formation of United Artists Media Group. This over-the-top (OTT) platform is designed to focus on faith and religion-themed content, providing a specialized space for viewers interested in these genres.

The Future of “A.D.”

The digital channel, expected to launch between late 2016 and early 2017, will likely include a mix of original scripted programming and possibly other content types. While “A.D.” will be a major feature, the network’s format and the business model are still being defined, with Burnett, Downey, and MGM exploring various digital partnerships and strategies.

With the actors released from their obligations to NBC, there may be some changes to the cast when the show resumes production. This could offer fresh perspectives and new dynamics within the series, potentially drawing in a broader audience.

Conclusion

The journey of “A.D.: The Bible Continues” from network television to a digital platform highlights the changing landscape of media consumption and the opportunities that digital transformation offers. For fans of the series, the move represents a new beginning and a chance to continue exploring the rich narratives of early Christianity. For the entertainment industry, it exemplifies adaptability and the importance of finding alternative ways to connect with audiences. With strategic planning and a clear vision, the resurrection of “A.D.” on a digital platform could turn a temporary setback into a pioneering success in the world of faith-based entertainment.