HBO Cancels Looking, Planning TV Movie

A passionate audience and critical acclaim were not enough to save the show about urban gay life.

Neal Broverman

Neal Broverman is the Editorial Director, Print of Pride Media, publishers of The Advocate, Out, Out Traveler, and Plus, spending more than 20 years in journalism. He indulges his interest in transportation and urban planning with regular contributions to Los Angeles magazine, and his work has also appeared in the Los Angeles Times and USA Today. He lives in the City of Angels with his husband, children, and their chiweenie.

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Neal Broverman

March 25 2015 12:58 PM EST

March 06 2017 4:28 AM EST

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Many Looking fans are heartbroken today with news that HBO has canceled the series, which aired two short seasons centering on a group of friends in San Francisco.

The cable network -- which is more akin to keep a low-rated show alive that has "buzz," e.g. Girls -- was not pleased with the show's low ratings and ended it after 18 episodes; the last of which aired on Sunday. HBO did promise a special to wrap up the storylines of Patrick, Dom, Agustin, Richie, Kevin, and Doris. It's not clear how long the movie will be or when it will air. Russell Tovey, who plays Kevin, the love interest/boss of the show's protagonist (played by Jonathan Groff), indicated on Twitter that executive producer Andrew Haigh would direct the movie. Haigh also directed the critically-acclaimed gay film Weekend.

\u201cI know dudes - @LookingHBO seasons no more, but think about it - @andrewhaighfilm is gonna direct the movie? @andrewhaighfilm!!!!!!!! :-) x\u201d
— Russell Tovey (@Russell Tovey) 1427299565

HBO's released the following message: "After two years of following Patrick and his tight-knit group of friends as they explored San Francisco in search of love and lasting relationships, HBO will present the final chapter of their journey as a special. We look forward to sharing this adventure with the shows loyal fans."

Though Looking never garnered huge ratings, its fanbase was very devoted. The series was lauded for featuring characters that were nearly all gay and, in the second season, more racially diverse. Without using a heavy hand, the show also touched upon major LGBT issues like PrEP, hook-up apps, and substance abuse.