Bad news for fans of Prime Video's latest thrillers! The streamer has officially canceled both the Jensen Ackles-led action drama Countdown and the Daniel Dae Kim spy series Butterfly after just one season each. It's a real bummer, especially since both shows garnered decent attention.
TL;DR- Prime Video officially canceled Jensen Ackles' Countdown and Daniel Dae Kim's Butterfly after their first seasons.
- Despite both shows hitting Prime Video's U.S. Top 10 and Nielsen Streaming Originals chart, global viewership wasn't high enough for renewal.
- Countdown showrunner Derek Haas confirmed that fan-favorite character Oliveras survived the major Season 1 cliffhanger.
Prime Video has sadly canceled Jensen Ackles' 'Countdown' and Daniel Dae Kim's 'Butterfly' after one season. Get the full scoop on why, cast reactions, and what's next for the stars.
The Unexpected End: Prime Video Says Goodbye to Two Freshman Series
In a move that has surprised many, especially considering their presence in Prime Video's U.S. Top 10, the streaming giant announced on October 10, 2025, that it would not be moving forward with second seasons for either Countdown or Butterfly. These cancellations came down after a period of evaluation for Prime Video's new scripted series that launched between May and August, alongside other decisions like renewing We Were Liars and Overcompensating, and canceling Motorheads.
For fans who were invested in the high-stakes world of LAPD detective Mark Meachum (Jensen Ackles) in Countdown or the intricate espionage of David Jung (Daniel Dae Kim) in Butterfly, this news stings. Both series had a lot going for them, including star power and engaging premises. However, it seems that being a hit in the U.S. isn't always enough to secure a future in the global streaming landscape.
Prime Video has canceled Jensen Ackles' Countdown and Daniel Dae Kim's Butterfly after single seasons. Dive into why these action thrillers didn't make the cut and what it means for Amazon's strategy.
Why the Countdown to Cancellation? Understanding Amazon's Decision
While both Countdown and Butterfly managed to break into the Nielsen Top 10 for Streaming Originals (Countdown at #8, Butterfly at #6) and held spots in Prime Video's internal U.S. Top 10 for weeks after their finales, the decision ultimately came down to "total global viewership." Sources indicate that despite strong domestic performance, the worldwide reach wasn't quite up to Amazon's standards for renewal. This highlights a growing trend in streaming where a show's success isn't just about critical acclaim or even a loyal domestic fanbase, but about its broad appeal across all territories. All decisions were finalized under Amazon MGM Studios' outgoing Head of Global TV Vernon Sanders, with Peter Friedlander now taking the helm.
Prime Video has canceled its freshman dramas 'Countdown' and 'Butterfly' after one season each. Get the full scoop on why these shows starring Jensen Ackles and Daniel Dae Kim won't return, cast reactions, and what's next.
Jensen Ackles Reacts to the News and Fan Outpouring
No one wants to see their project end prematurely, and Jensen Ackles, who played the lead LAPD detective Mark Meachum in Countdown, expressed his disappointment on social media. "Well, as some of you may have seen already, Countdown did not get picked up for another season. Amazon’s gonna let it go, and it’s a bummer. I had such an amazing time making that show. I had an absolute blast with the cast and the crew," Ackles shared in a video.
He continued, acknowledging the harsh realities of the entertainment industry: "Sometimes you can set out to do your best and check all those boxes, and ultimately, it’s out of your hands. That’s the way it goes in this industry." Ackles also mentioned the end for his character, Mark Meachum, and fellow team members Oliveras, Finau, Bell, Shepherd, and Blythe, expressing gratitude for the experience. The sentiment among fans was clear, with many taking to social media to express their anger and sadness over the cancellation, feeling the show deserved more seasons, especially after its gripping finale.
“You know, sometimes you can set out to do your best and check all those boxes and, ultimately, it’s out of your hands. That’s the way it goes in this industry. So anyway, that’s the end for Mark Meechum and Oliveras and Bell and Shepherd and Blythe. But I’m thankful for the experience. I really am. We’ll see you down the road on something else, I guess.”
— Jensen Ackles, speaking on Instagram after the cancellation.
Prime Video has canceled action thrillers Countdown, starring Jensen Ackles, and Daniel Dae Kim's spy drama Butterfly after one season each, citing global viewership figures.
The Big Reveal: Showrunner Derek Haas Confirms Oliveras' Fate
One of the biggest frustrations for Countdown viewers was the massive cliffhanger that ended Season 1. The villain, Seth (who was secretly an FBI agent all along), had kidnapped Amber Oliveras (Jessica Camacho) and lined up a sniper shot as she tried to escape. Fans were left wondering if Oliveras survived the ordeal. Thankfully, Countdown showrunner Derek Haas didn't leave us completely hanging.
Shortly after the cancellation news broke, Haas took to BlueSky to offer a tiny but significant bit of closure: "Hey, thank you to Amazon Prime and a great cast and crew for our season of Countdown! Fun to make all around! (pssst…Oliveras lived.)" This small note provides some relief, even if we won't get to see how the team would have dealt with the aftermath or how Meachum (Ackles) would have reacted, as he was expected to "lose his st" over her abduction.
“Hey, thank you to Amazon Prime and a great cast and crew for our season of Countdown! Fun to make all around! (pssst…Oliveras lived.)”
— Derek Haas (@derekhaaswriter.bsky.social) on BlueSky, October 10, 2025Haas had previously mentioned that he "didn't give a s--t" about audience betrayal if the show was canceled after a cliffhanger, enjoying the wait for weekly episodes. He even hinted at writing a novella for closure if a second season didn't happen, a hope that many fans are now clinging to.
Jensen Ackles ignites Prime Video's Countdown with high-octane energy, emotional depth, and a brotherhood vibe that echoes Supernatural's best moments.
The Thrilling Premise of 'Countdown' and Its Pivoting Storyline
Countdown kicked off with an intriguing premise: an officer with the Department of Homeland Security is murdered in broad daylight, leading LAPD detective Mark Meachum (Ackles) to join a secret task force. This elite team, comprising agents from various law enforcement branches, was tasked with uncovering a sinister plot and saving a city of millions. The cast was packed with talent, including:
- Jensen Ackles as Mark Meachum (LAPD detective)
- Jessica Camacho as Amber Oliveras (undercover agent)
- Eric Dane as Nathan Blythe (head of the task force)
- Elliot Knight as Keyonte Bell (FBI, terrorism)
- Violett Beane as Evan Shepherd (FBI, cyber crimes)
- Uli Latukefu as Lucas Finau (LAPD's Gang and Narcotics division)
Interestingly, the series made a unique mid-season pivot, concluding its initial storyline and launching into a new arc focused on domestic terrorism against a California governor. While the show's Rotten Tomatoes critic score was a "rotten" 35%, its audience score was higher at 63%, indicating a divisive but engaging viewing experience for many.
'Butterfly' Also Ends Its Journey After One Season
Alongside Countdown, the Daniel Dae Kim-led spy thriller Butterfly also faced the axe. Based on Arash Amel's Boom! Studios graphic novel, Butterfly followed David Jung (Kim), an enigmatic former U.S. intelligence operative living a quiet life in South Korea. His world is shattered when his past decisions resurface, and he finds himself pursued by Rebecca (Reina Hardesty), a deadly, sociopathic young agent who is also his estranged daughter.
The series was praised for its cinematic scope and emotional depth, particularly Kim's layered performance and Hardesty's breakout role. Filmed in South Korea, the show integrated the local culture and iconic locations, with episodes named after South Korean cities like "Seoul" and "Busan." The cast included:
- Daniel Dae Kim as David Jung
- Reina Hardesty as Rebecca
- Kim Ji-hoon
- Park Hae-soo
- Kim Tae-hee
- Charles Parnell
- Sean Dulake
- Nayoon Kim
- Sung Dong-il (guest)
- Lee Il-hwa (guest)
While Butterfly had a better critical reception than Countdown, it ultimately couldn't escape the same fate, with Prime Video seeking higher global viewership metrics.
The "Supernatural" and "The Boys" Families Rally for Ackles
Following Jensen Ackles' emotional video message, a wave of support poured in from his former co-stars and friends across Hollywood. It's clear that Ackles is a beloved figure, and many empathized with the cancellation of a project he was passionate about. Some of the notable names showing their love included:
- Jared Padalecki (Supernatural): "Their loss brother. You were amazing in it. Which is no surprise to ANYBODY. I’ll still be re-watching. And I can’t wait to see what you do next."
- Jeffrey Dean Morgan (Supernatural): "I have a sneaky suspicion you’ll land on your feet, pal. Big love to you, and entire cast and crew."
- Jack Quaid (The Boys): "Love ya, man❤️"
- Tom Welling (Smallville)
- Felicia Day (Supernatural)
- Aya Cash (The Boys)
- Rob Benedict (Supernatural)
This outpouring of support surely offers some comfort during a tough professional moment, underscoring the strong bonds formed within these acting communities.
What's Next for Jensen Ackles and Daniel Dae Kim?While Countdown and Butterfly might be off the air, their stars aren't slowing down. Jensen Ackles remains incredibly busy. Fans can look forward to seeing him in:
- Tracker Season 3: He's set to guest star as Colter Shaw's brother in a two-part premiere.
- The Boys Prequel Vought Rising: Ackles will reprise his fan-favorite role as Soldier Boy.
- The Boys Season 5: He's also returning for the fifth and final season of the main series.
Daniel Dae Kim also has a first-look deal with Amazon MGM Studios through his production company, 3AD, which developed Butterfly. His talent as an actor and producer means we'll undoubtedly see him in many exciting new projects in the future. So, while we say goodbye to these particular shows, the careers of their talented leads are still very much in full swing!
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About the Cancellations AnsweredQ1: Where can I stream Countdown and Butterfly?
Both Countdown and Butterfly are available to stream exclusively on Prime Video, where their single seasons premiered.
Q2: How many episodes are in Countdown and Butterfly Season 1?
Countdown had 13 episodes in its first and only season. Butterfly had six episodes in its single season.
Q3: What were the Rotten Tomatoes scores for these shows?
Countdown received a "rotten" 35% among critics, but a more favorable 63% audience score. Butterfly had a critic score of 68% and an audience score of 84%, indicating it was generally better received critically and by viewers.
Q4: Will there be any other form of closure for Countdown's storyline?
While showrunner Derek Haas initially mentioned he might write a novella for closure if the show wasn't renewed, there has been no official announcement regarding this. For now, his BlueSky post confirming Oliveras lived is the only additional "closure" provided.
Sources- Bleeding Cool: Countdown Showrunner Addresses Show Ending, Reveals Oliveras' Fate
- Deadline: ‘Countdown’ & ‘Butterfly’ Canceled By Prime Video After One Season
- TV Insider: Jensen Ackles Reacts to ‘Countdown’s Cancellation: ‘It’s a Bummer’
- Collider: ‘Butterfly’ Canceled at Prime Video After One Season
- MovieWeb: 'Countdown' and 'Butterfly' Canceled by Prime Video After One Season Each
- Hello!: Prime Video viewers 'angry' as streamer cancels popular series despite major cliffhanger
- CBR: Countdown Showrunner Addresses Show Ending, Reveals Oliveras' Fate