The creators of a popular Adult Swim animated series addressed the show’s future as it approaches a major turning point. In a recent announcement, they confirmed they will conclude the series with its third season. They also hinted that they may continue working in this universe in some form.
Smiling Friends will end after Season 3
Creators Michael Cusack and Zach Hadel announced that the series has “come to an end with the third season,” confirming that there will be no additional seasons. Adult Swim also confirmed that the animated comedy is ending after Season 3.
Cusack and Hadel said they felt “burnt out and creatively accomplished after completing the third season.” They added that they “do not believe they could continue the series without compromising its quality,” and chose to end it while it is still operating at a high standard. Cusack previously stated, “We pretty much can guarantee it’s not going to go on as much as these other shows,” while Hadel added, “Even if we had a thousand ideas at the end of season five, we’re not going to go on long.”
Adult Swim will premiere two additional Season 3 episodes on April 12 at 11 p.m. The creators clarified that these installments “are not intended as series finales,” but instead remain part of the completed Season 3 order.
Smiling Friends creators might return for more future episodes
Although the series has ended, Cusack and Hadel left open the possibility of future projects connected to the show. They said they would collaborate on projects in the future and left “the door slightly open to a special or something along those lines.”
Cusack stated, “Our reps and Adult Swim are like, ‘Surely, we’ll go on forever.’ But Zach and I know what’s best for the show.” He added, “Leaving the audience wanting more is the best.” While they have not planned any additional seasons, the creators indicated that they have not ruled out a return in another form.