Disney+ has officially canceled its popular horror series Goosebumps after two successful seasons, a decision announced on August 11, 2025. The move came as a shock to fans of the R.L. Stine adaptation, especially given the show’s impressive performance. It had accumulated over 75 million viewing hours in the U.S. alone, leaving many to wonder why the streaming giant pulled the plug on a clear hit.
A Surprise Move despite Strong Viewership
The cancellation of Goosebumps surprised both fans and industry insiders. The series, which premiered in October 2023, was a solid performer for Disney+, drawing in a dedicated audience with its blend of teen horror and supernatural mystery. Its success was backed by hard numbers, making the decision to end it seem counterintuitive.
Despite amassing over 75 million viewing hours in the United States, the show was not renewed. Experts suggest that in the current streaming landscape of 2025, raw viewership is not the only metric for success. Streaming services like Disney+ are now looking closer at long-term profitability, audience retention rates, and whether a show helps attract new subscribers in a crowded market.
The decision is also part of a broader trend. Amid rising production costs and economic pressures, streaming platforms are tightening their budgets. This has led to a wave of cancellations for shows that, in previous years, might have been considered safe for renewal. Disney+ appears to be focusing its resources on its core blockbuster franchises like Marvel and Star Wars.
The Timeline of the Beloved Horror Series
Goosebumps successfully reimagined R.L. Stine’s iconic books for a new generation while also appealing to nostalgic adults. The series starred well-known actors like David Schwimmer, which added significant star power. It was praised for its modern storytelling, diverse cast, and its ability to blend horror with humor and coming-of-age themes.
The show’s two seasons had different release strategies, which both contributed to its popularity and buzz.
| Season | Release Date | Episode Count | Key Highlights |
| 1 | October 2023 | 10 | Weekly episode drops built suspense and discussion. |
| 2 | January 2025 | 8 | All episodes released at once, encouraging binge-watching. |
What’s Next for the Goosebumps Franchise?
There is still hope for fans of the show. Sony Pictures Television, the production company behind the series, plans to shop the series to other networks or streaming platforms. This means Goosebumps could find a new home and potentially be revived for a third season.
This is not an uncommon scenario in today’s television landscape. Several popular shows have been saved from cancellation after being picked up by a new platform. A famous example is The Expanse, which moved from Syfy to Amazon Prime and continued for several more successful seasons. Given the massive library of over 200 Goosebumps books, there is no shortage of material for future stories.
If revived, the show could explore new tales from Stine’s universe, introduce fresh characters, and continue to deliver the family-friendly horror that made it a hit.
Fan Outcry and Streaming Industry Trends
Immediately following the announcement, fans took to social media to express their disappointment. The hashtag #SaveGoosebumps began trending on X, with viewers sharing their love for the series and calling for another service to pick it up. Many praised the show for its inclusive storytelling and for providing a fun, spooky option for families.
The cancellation reflects larger trends in the streaming world, where even popular shows are not safe from budget cuts. In 2025, services are prioritizing cost-effective programming and massive franchise titles to retain subscribers. For viewers, this can be frustrating, as it leads to beloved shows ending abruptly on cliffhangers.
For fans wondering what to do next, here are a few suggestions:
- Keep an eye on announcements from Sony Pictures Television for a potential new home.
- Follow the cast and creators on social media for any updates on the show’s future.
- Explore the original Goosebumps book series to get your horror fix.
Frequently Asked Questions about Goosebumps
Why was Goosebumps canceled if it was popular?
Despite strong viewership with over 75 million hours streamed, the cancellation was likely due to Disney+’s strategic shift in 2025 to cut costs and focus on major franchises like Marvel and Star Wars. High viewership alone no longer guarantees a renewal.
Will there be a season 3 of Goosebumps?
While Disney+ will not be making a third season, the production company, Sony Pictures Television, is actively looking for a new network or streaming service to continue the show. Its future is uncertain but hopeful.
How many seasons of the new Goosebumps series are there?
The Disney+ version of Goosebumps ran for two seasons. The first season had 10 episodes, and the second season had 8 episodes.
Where can I watch the Goosebumps series now?
The first two seasons are currently available on Disney+. However, if Sony finds a new home for the series, it may eventually move to a different platform.
