Netflix has faced criticism for abruptly cancelling its high-profile sci-fi series The Boroughs, a decision that looks increasingly premature given the show's strong viewership figures. The series carried significant expectations because it was executive-produced by the Duffer Brothers, the creators of Netflix's flagship hit Stranger Things, and was billed as their return to sci-fi. Despite excellent reviews following its 21 May premiere, Netflix announced roughly a month later that it would not produce further episodes.

Nielsen ratings released the day after the cancellation showed the show had performed far better than the decision implied. The Boroughs drew 1.2 billion minutes watched in its debut week, finishing second behind fellow Netflix title Nemesis, then rose to 1.6 billion minutes in its second week to top the chart — a total surpassing 3.4 billion minutes and an unusual upward trend likely driven by positive word of mouth. The series also holds a "Certified Fresh" 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes, deepening the sense that the cancellation was a misjudgement.