Zac Efron's series removed after just two episodes - The CW's content shakeup continues

In the wake of its acquisition by Nexstar, The CW finds itself navigating a complex landscape, striving to ensure profitability for the network. As part of its cost-cutting measures, several original series have met their demise, resulting in a sweeping wave of cancellations.

Among the casualties is "Down to Earth with Zac Efron," the captivating documentary series featuring the renowned actor. Regrettably, the show has been yanked from the network's schedule after airing a mere two episodes.

The CW welcomed "Down to Earth with Zac Efron" to its lineup earlier in July, hoping to capitalize on the fervent fan base drawn to the 35-year-old actor's nature-centric project. Alas, the show struggled to make an impact, as viewership failed to meet expectations.


During its broadcast debut on July 18, the documentary series garnered a modest audience of 306,000 viewers. However, the following week witnessed a steep 24% decline, with the TV offering attracting only 232,000 viewers.

Unfortunately, Efron's global exploration and focus on sustainability couldn't compete with the network's other original and acquired offerings, including hits like "Nancy Drew," "Family Law," "The Chosen," and "Son of a Critch."

"Down to Earth with Zac Efron" initially earned acclaim as a Netflix original in 2020. The show documented Efron's adventures as he traversed the globe, shedding light on diverse cultures and sustainable practices.

Twitter buzzed with excitement over the series, with many noting Efron's occasional wet and shirtless appearances. The show's first season even earned two Daytime Emmy nominations, with Efron himself winning the prestigious award for Outstanding Daytime Program Host. Its second season, which premiered in 2022, is currently vying for four Emmys.

While "Down to Earth with Zac Efron" is undoubtedly a significant loss, it is not the only series removed from The CW's roster. The fantasy series "Fantastic Friends," which featured Harry Potter alums James and Oliver Phelps, also faced the axe.

Sadly, the Phelps brothers' show garnered even lower ratings, averaging just 160,000 viewers. Both series' departures paved the way for "Penn & Teller: Fool Us" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" reruns, set to occupy Tuesday nights beginning August 1.

As The CW continues its realignment, fans may lament the recent cancellations of freshman series "Walker: Independence" and "The Winchesters," both of which failed to secure new network homes. Popular shows like "Superman & Lois" and "All American" managed to secure renewals but experienced significant budget cuts due to the network's strategic cost-saving measures.

With the network's decisive content overhaul, questions arise regarding the potential fate of other programs in the coming months. The prudent approach taken by those in charge leaves room for speculation. However, one thing remains clear: Zac Efron's journey on The CW has come to a conclusion.

For those eager to experience "Down to Earth with Zac Efron," the two-season documentary series is available for streaming on Netflix.

FAQs

Q1:Did Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens date?
Vanessa was in a relationship with Zac, her co-star from High School Musical, for a duration of four years until they parted ways in 2010. After their split, she began dating Austin in the subsequent year and remained together for nine years before calling it quits in 2020.

Q2:Did Zac Efron get married?
As of now, Zac is not in a relationship. In a Men's Health interview in October 2022, the actor shared that he has taken a break from the dating scene but remains hopeful about discovering genuine love in the future.