Deadpool exploded into mainstream popularity with the release of his film, which became one of Fox's highest grossing hits ever. Looking to keep the train moving along, a Deadpool animated TV project was soon announced to be in development at FX, with straight-up superstar Donald Glover and his brother Stephen Glover attached as showrunners, executive producers, and writers. That's an exciting project to be sure, but there's been little news since that initial announcement and now we've got a reason why: the project is officially dead, at least at FX.
According to Deadline, the animated Deadpool TV show has been canceled before it even made it to the small screen. FX, Donald Glover, Stephen Glover, and Marvel TV are parting ways, citing creative differences over the split. Furthermore, FX is no longer involved with the project, which means if the project wants to see the light of day, it will have to find a new home on a different network. It is unknown if Marvel TV and ABC Studios will try and pursue the project at this time. The Deadpool project originally received a 10 episode straight-to-series order to premiere in 2018.
There are a number of factors hanging in the air that complicate the future of the project. The rights to the Deadpool character are owned by Fox, so that means a Fox production entity has to be the one to make the show. However, with FX passing, 20th Century Fox TV is the only other option. Further complicating matters is the Disney-Fox deal which, should it go through, would likely see the Deadpool rights return to Marvel. That means there's a ticking clock if Fox wants to capitalize on Deadpool while they still have the rights. It's a complex matter and we'll have to see what comes out of it as time goes on.
Deadpool has become a cash cow since the release of his feature film in 2016. Deadpool went on to earn $783 million worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing R-rated comedy ever. The sequel Deadpool 2 is slated to release on May 18.
For those sad that Donald Glover won't be involved any longer, there are tons of different places to satisfy any Glover Lover. (I assume that's what they are called). Glover has his critically acclaimed show Atlanta airing its second season on FX right now and the actor can be seen as Lando Calrissian in the upcoming Solo: A Star Wars Story. On top of that, Glover is also voicing Simba in Disney's remake of The Lion King.
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