Did “How to Make It in America” Get Cancelled? A Detailed Look at HBO’s Short‑Lived Series
When the buzz around “How to Make It in America” first hit the airwaves in 2010, fans of the New York‑based drama‑comedy expected a long run on HBO. Instead, the series ended after two seasons, leaving many viewers wondering: did the show get cancelled, and why? This article examines the facts behind the series’ abrupt end, explores the official statements from HBO, and highlights related media that keep the conversation alive.
The Official Status: Cancelled After Two Seasons
HBO confirmed that “How to Make It in America” was cancelled in January 2011. The network announced that the show would not return for a third season, effectively ending the storyline of aspiring entrepreneurs Ben (James Ransone) and Cam (Brittany Snow) as they navigated the fashion and tech scenes of Manhattan.
The cancellation was not a surprise to industry analysts. Ratings for the series consistently hovered around the low‑single‑digit millions in the United States, a figure considered modest for a premium cable channel that relies heavily on subscriber retention and critical acclaim. While the show earned praise for its stylish aesthetic and authentic portrayal of young creatives, the numbers simply did not meet HBO’s internal benchmarks for renewal.
Why Did HBO Pull the Plug?
Several factors contributed to the decision:
- Ratings and Viewership: The series averaged roughly 1.5 million viewers per episode in its first season and saw a slight decline in the second. Compared with other HBO hits such as “Game of Thrones” or “Silicon Valley,” the audience size was insufficient to justify continued investment.
- Strategic Programming Shifts: In 2011, HBO was reshuffling its slate to focus on high‑concept dramas and limited‑run series. Shows with broader appeal or stronger subscription drivers were prioritized.
- Production Costs: Filming on location in New York City, along with a talented cast and crew, resulted in higher production expenses that outweighed the modest ad‑free revenue generated by the series.
HBO never released a detailed press statement attributing the cancellation to a single cause, but the combination of low ratings, strategic realignment, and cost considerations aligns with typical network practices.
What Happened to the Cast and Crew?
After the show’s end, many of its stars continued to thrive in the entertainment industry:
- James Ransone – Known for his role as Ben, Ransone later appeared in “The Wire” and “The Blacklist.” He also contributed to “How to Make It in America” Extras, offering behind‑the‑scenes insight for fans
