Freeform Cancels Cloak & Dagger

This was not unexpected, but nonetheless sad.

Deadline reports Freeform has pulled the plug on Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger. The cited reason? A 40% drop in ratings in comparison to its first year on the ABC cable channel. Of course, the coming upheaval at Marvel Television may have something to do with it.

Starring Olivia Holt and Aubrey Joseph, the series managed to bring the Marvel mutants to television in a gritty, interesting, and startling context. The two seasons saw Tyrone (Joseph) and Tandy (Holt) discovering their unusual powers and that they were strong together. Though destined to become a couple, the series shied away from any quick romances, instead focusing on their offbeat friendship. The second season also saw them leaving New Orleans for a trip across the country.

The characters will be seen again in December for a special crossover episode of Marvel’s Runaways, but this will presumably be the last time we see Holt and Joseph in the roles. As we reported earlier this week, Marvel Television boss Jeph Loeb is set to step down at the end of November. Though in the works for sometime, his departure coincides with all of Marvel Entertainment’s creative endeavors becoming the purview of Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige. This includes the television and animation initiatives spearheaded by Loeb, so it not surprising to see the TV division’s remaining programs close up shop.

At the moment, it is still unclear if projects Loeb set up at Hulu — including an animated Howard the Duck and a live action Helstrom series — will go forward. Also unclear is the future of Runaways. Though a good performer for Hulu, it may also shut down in the wake of a presumed restructuring of Marvel Television under Feige.