Half a million people sign petition to save Sense8

There’s a growing movement to stop the LGBTIQ-affirming series Sense8 from being cancelled.

Last week, fans of the cult show were shocked when Netflix confirmed that it was ending Sense8 after just two seasons, despite a loyal following and critical praise.

The timing of the move was especially galling as it was announced on the first day of Pride Month, celebrated in many countries in June.

The sci-fi series, about eight strangers from around the world who suddenly become mentally and emotionally linked, explored issues such as sexuality and gender identity.

The eight diverse characters included a closeted gay actor and a transgender lesbian woman.

It seems, however, that Sense8 supporters are not taking the news lying down. A petition to save the show has been launched by a group of fans in Argentina.

They not only want answers as to why it was canned, but are also calling for Netflix to rethink its decision.

“We believe it is necessary that TV shows and movies which, from its content, provide the world with a message of love, diversity and respect. All these values have been brought to life by the characters of the show, and the message it has is extremely important for society,” said the fans.

They added: “It is not just a TV show, to watch for fun. Instead of just being that, Sense 8 has given the world a new way of seeing others: with acceptance, love and understanding.”

In just a few days, the petition had garnered more than 400,000 supporters, and counting.

Despite its committed fanbase, it’s possible that the actual number of viewers was not high enough considering that the show’s reported budget was a whopping $9 million per episode.