In a surprising move, Apple TV+ has decided to pull the plug on “The Big Door Prize” after just two seasons. The series, created by David West Read, garnered attention for its unique premise: a mysterious machine in a small-town store that promises to reveal each resident’s true life potential.
Starring Chris O’Dowd as Dusty Hubbard, the show follows a cheerful family man and high school teacher whose life is thrown into upheaval as those around him begin to question their life choices based on the machine’s predictions. Dusty’s wife, Cass, played by Gabrielle Dennis, dreams of a greater future, driving her to believe in the machine’s promises. This dynamic forces Dusty to confront his own happiness and contentment.
The show’s second season, which ended on a cliffhanger, has left fans without resolution. Alongside O’Dowd and Dennis, the cast included Ally Maki, Josh Segarra, Damon Gupton, Crystal Fox, Djouliet Amara, and Sammy Fourlas.
Produced by Skydance Television and CJ ENM/Studio Dragon, “The Big Door Prize” received an early renewal for its second season in April 2023, signaling strong initial confidence from Apple TV+. Despite positive reviews and a Rotten Tomatoes Certified Fresh rating, the series faced criticism for not fully exploring its potential. Collider’s Chase Hutchinson noted that the first season set up much more than it delivered.
Based on the novel by M.O. Walsh, the series was helmed by David West Read, known for his work on “Schitt’s Creek”. The adaptation blended elements of sci-fi, philosophy, and small-town comedy, drawing inspiration from the John Prine song “In Spite of Ourselves”.
For those interested in catching up, both seasons of “The Big Door Prize” are available for streaming on Apple TV+.
News of the cancellation was originally read on TV Line.