The Cancellation of ‘Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies’: A Missed Opportunity and a Troubling Message During Pride Month

Trevor Decker

Published

June 25, 2023

NOTE: This article is 10 months old and may not include the most recent information.

The recent cancellation and removal of ‘Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies’ from Paramount+ has sparked a wave of disappointment and concern among fans and advocates of diverse representation in media. The timing of this decision, during Pride Month, adds an additional layer of significance and sends a troubling message.

‘Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies’ was more than just a prequel to a beloved classic; it was a beacon of representation. With a diverse cast and sapphic main characters, the show was a step forward in the ongoing fight for more inclusive storytelling in mainstream media. The cancellation of such a show during Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, feels like a step backward.

The decision to cancel the show due to financial reasons, as shared by cast member Ari Notartomaso, raises questions about the value placed on diverse and inclusive content by major streaming platforms. It sends a message that these stories are expendable when they should be prioritized.

The cancellation of ‘Pink Ladies’ is not just a loss for the fans and the cast, but also a loss for the progress of representation in media. It adds to a growing list of shows with diverse casts and sapphic characters that have been pulled after a first season, further highlighting the challenges faced by such productions.

In a time when the call for more diverse representation in media is louder than ever, the cancellation of ‘Pink Ladies’ is a missed opportunity. It’s a missed opportunity to tell stories that resonate with a wider audience, to challenge the norms, and to celebrate diversity in all its forms.

The hope now is that Paramount Television Studios’ efforts to shop ‘Pink Ladies’ to other broadcasters and streaming platforms will be successful. The revival of the show on another platform could serve as a powerful statement that diverse stories matter and are worth investing in.