Troubling Developments in the Spyverse: The highly anticipated Citadel season 2 faces significant delays, and various planned spinoffs are currently on hold, raising concerns among fans and industry observers alike.
According to a report from THR, the much-awaited Citadel season 2 is facing unexpected delays. Compounding this situation, the various spinoff series that were set to expand the Citadel universe have been placed on indefinite hold. This news marks yet another chapter in the ongoing struggles faced by Amazon MGM’s lavishly produced spy series. With extensive reshoots required during the first season, it emerged as one of the most costly television productions ever, racking up a staggering budget of approximately $300 million for just six episodes. This financial burden raises questions about the series’ future and its ability to recover from these setbacks.
Filming for Citadel season 2 was completed last November, and the new season was originally slated for a fall 2025 release. However, this has now been postponed to spring 2026. Sources from THR reveal that Amazon MGM is reportedly “unhappy with the current direction of season two.” This suggests that the challenges plaguing the second season mirror those experienced during the first, which was marked by notable creative conflicts and challenges that hindered its initial development.
Initially, Josh Appelbaum (Without Remorse) served as the showrunner for the first season of Citadel. However, he departed from the project in December 2021, alongside several other key figures, due to creative differences with the studio and the renowned Russo brothers. Subsequently, David Weil (known for Hunters) was brought on board to revamp the series, while acclaimed cinematographer Thomas Sigel (Drive) took charge of the reshoots, aiming to enhance the overall quality of the production.
This show is envisioned as an “Avengers-style spy thriller,” showcasing a diverse array of spies from around the globe uniting for a high-stakes mission. To date, two spinoffs have been launched, including Italy’s Citadel: Diana and India’s Citadel: Honey Bunny. While both series have reportedly garnered success in their respective markets, further spinoff developments are now suspended. They may resume once the second season of Citadel is back on course, but there are growing concerns that this delay might signal the potential end of the franchise. Originally intended to rival the James Bond franchise, Citadel now faces an uncertain future, especially with Amazon’s recent acquisition of the Bond franchise itself.
Critical reception of the first season has been mixed, although our reviewer, Alex Maidy, expressed enthusiasm for the series. “From the stunning special effects to the exhilarating fight choreography, there was so much to appreciate about Citadel,” Maidy noted. “The marketing strategy for this series is truly commendable, as Amazon is poised to deliver yet another flagship hit. Richard Madden has carved out a unique character for himself that distinguishes him from the 007 legacy, eliminating the need for him to take on the iconic role of James Bond on the big screen.” For a deeper dive into his review, feel free to check it out right here.
