Why Wednesday, The Witcher, One Piece, and More Netflix Hits Are Delayed Until 2025

Spoiler Alert: This article contains spoilers. Proceed with caution if you have not watched the show/movie.

Netflix subscribers have been eagerly awaiting the return of several beloved series such as "Stranger Things," "Wednesday," "Ginny & Georgia," and "Virgin River." However, it's been announced that these hit shows are now not expected to return until 2025. The delays are primarily due to the significant impact of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and SAG-AFTRA strikes, alongside other production challenges.

The Impact of Strikes

The entertainment industry faced a major slowdown in 2023 due to strikes by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA, affecting numerous productions across Hollywood. These strikes, calling for fair compensation and working conditions for writers and actors, led to a halt in production for many Netflix series. As these shows rely heavily on the creative and performing talents of their members, the strikes meant that writing, filming, and post-production processes were paused or delayed, pushing back release dates significantly.

Production Schedules and Delays

For shows like "Ginny & Georgia," which had seen a two-year gap between its first and second seasons, the strikes have further extended the waiting period for new episodes. Ginny & Georgia Season 3 had not even begun production due to the strikes, suggesting a lengthy delay until its return. Virgin River, another Netflix favorite, has also seen its production for the upcoming Season 6 pushed back, with filming now not expected to wrap until May 2024.

The Witcher Season 4 faced its own unique set of challenges, including the departure of lead star Henry Cavill and the subsequent delay in production start to 2024. The anticipated return of the fantasy drama is now likely pushed to 2025.

The live-action adaptation of One Piece and the supernatural hit Wednesday have similarly been affected. One Piece is facing a significant delay due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, with a potential 18-month wait post-filming before the next season airs. Wednesday, despite its massive success and viral moments, has seen its production for the second season delayed, moving the filming location and pushing its return to 2025.

The Case of Stranger Things Season 6

Stranger Things is among the most notable delays, with its final season now postponed until late 2025 or early 2026. The pandemic had already extended the gap between previous seasons, and the strikes have further complicated production schedules. This delay is particularly impactful given the age progression of its young cast and the high anticipation for the series' conclusion.

While the delays are disappointing for fans, they underscore the importance of labor rights in the entertainment industry and the complex logistics of producing high-quality television. The extended timeline also means that when these shows do return, they will hopefully maintain the high standards that fans expect. In the meantime, Netflix has announced plans for spin-offs and has continued to develop new content, ensuring that viewers will have fresh material to enjoy as they await the return of their favorite series.

Also Read: That ’90s Show Season 2 Set for Summer 2024 Release! Know More