Summary:
- Umbrella Academy’s Sparrow Academy spin-off cancelled by Netflix.
- Showrunner Steve Blackman accused of fostering toxic work environment.
- Blackman denies allegations, but his behavior impacted careers and series.
A planned spin-off series of ‘The Umbrella Academy‘ focusing on the Sparrow Academy is no longer moving forward at Netflix.
Multiple staffers and a human resources complaint obtained by Rolling Stone allege Steve Blackman, the showrunner of ‘The Umbrella Academy’ , fostered a hostile work environment. Blackman denies all accusations.
Blackman received praise for the first season of the Netflix show but according to a January 2023 HR complaint filed with Universal Content Productions, the production company behind the series, Blackman had a history of toxic behavior. The complaint detailed instances of bullying, manipulation, and retaliation against staffers.
Twelve former writers and support staffers who worked on ‘The Umbrella Academy’ across all four seasons described their experiences as some of the most tumultuous of their careers. Many mentioned fearing retaliation from Blackman if they spoke up about his behavior.
The HR complaint outlined several examples of Blackman’s alleged retaliation. In one instance, a writing team Blackman had initially hired was not offered contracts for the second season after one of the members went on maternity leave. Blackman allegedly told others he felt he had been “ripped off” because he was not aware of the pregnancy.
Another example involved a support staffer who did not share details of a private conversation with Blackman. The staffer was not invited back for the following season.
Blackman has denied all allegations of retaliation. A spokesperson for Blackman said decisions about staffing were based on “performance and budget” and that Blackman worked with HR on all employment matters.
Showrunners hold significant power in television production. They oversee creative decisions, manage budgets, and have the ability to significantly impact the careers of those working under them. Blackman allegedly used this power to his advantage, creating a climate of fear and mistrust.
Several staffers claimed Blackman would take credit for their work and ideas. Some entry-level staffers said they were asked to write entire scenes, with the promise of credit or promotions that never materialized.
Blackman’s reported behavior is not unique in Hollywood. However, there has been a recent cultural shift toward holding powerful figures accountable for creating toxic work environments.
While Blackman has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation, the allegations have had consequences.
The fourth and final season of ‘The Umbrella Academy’ premieres on August 8, 2024. It remains to be seen if the show’s legacy will be overshadowed by the allegations against Blackman.
