If you were hoping for more episodes of the chaotic and bloody animated anthology The Boys Presents: Diabolical, we've got some bad news. The universe's co-creator, Eric Kripke, confirmed in a recent interview with *The Wrap* that the series likely won't be returning for a second season on Prime Video.
Despite being a creative and praised endeavor, the verdict was clear: the viewership didn't measure up.
## Goodbye, Diabolical: Why Season 2 Isn't Happening?
The answer is straightforward: numbers. Even with the creative team's dedication, the show didn't attract enough viewers to justify the investment for a new season.
"I don't think there's gonna be a Season 2 of Diabolical," Kripke stated. "And it's not for lack of us wanting to do it. I think, ultimately, the viewership numbers just weren't there to justify it, unfortunately."
Kripke made sure to emphasize that both he and the animation's showrunner, Simon Racioppa, were eager to produce more, but Amazon Prime Video's decision appears to be final.
## The Contrast: Critical Success, Audience Failure
The cancellation is especially frustrating for fans, given the series' exceptionally high quality. Released in March 2022, *Diabolical* presented eight standalone episodes, each with a unique animation style and tone.
The anthology featured a powerhouse team of writers and creators, including:
– Seth Rogen
– Evan Goldberg
– Awkwafina
– Andy Samberg
– And even Garth Ennis, the co-creator of the original *The Boys* comics.
This creative effort resulted in an impressive 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, solidifying the series as a critical darling. However, as Kripke pointed out, in the streaming world, acclaim didn't outweigh the need for mass viewership.
## The Boys Universe Lives On: 3 Spinoffs in the Works
The end of *Diabolical* is by no means the end of *The Boys*' expanded universe. In fact, the franchise is more alive than ever and gearing up for a robust future, even after the main series concludes (scheduled to wrap up in its 5th season).
Kripke confirmed that the focus is now on three other live-action projects:
### 1. Gen V
The first live-action spinoff was an absolute hit. Gen V captivated audiences by exploring Godolkin University, an institution run by Vought for young "Supes." The series is already established and continues to expand the main narrative, directly connecting to the events of the flagship show.
### 2. The Boys: Mexico
A new spinoff is officially in development. Tentatively titled The Boys: Mexico, the project is being written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (writer for *Blue Beetle*).
"Mexico is being developed now," Kripke confirmed. "The pilot script is being written. Gareth is a wonderful writer and I think it's hilarious. I hope it gets made, but it's just in that development stage."
### 3. Vought Rising
Perhaps the most ambitious project, Vought Rising will be a prequel focusing on the origins of Vought International. The series will bring back Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy and Aya Cash as Stormfront, exploring the corporation's early days in the 1950s.
## The Future Depends on the Fans
Eric Kripke concluded the interview with an important reminder that applies to all new projects: success hinges on the audience. The creator knows that Prime Video has greenlit the expansion of this universe, but business requires a return on investment.
"The same goes for Vought Rising's first season," Kripke added. "We have plans for a second season, if we can. They [Prime Video] have been supportive and are giving us our opportunities. But it is a business, and we also have to deliver. So, hopefully, the audience shows up."