Netflix has cancelled its reality dating series Too Hot to Handle after four seasons, despite strong viewership numbers. The show, which banned contestants from any sexual contact during a 30-day retreat, failed to impress critics and viewers alike, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 38%.
The series followed a group of attractive singles on a tropical island, where any kissing, fondling or other intimate acts would result in deductions from a $100,000 cash prize. An AI named Lana monitored the contestants' behaviour and logged each indiscretion. However, the show quickly undermined its own premise by introducing 'green light' watches that allowed couples to have sex, removing the central tension.
Critics noted that the show lacked the character development and emotional investment that made other reality dating series successful. Contestants often claimed to have made life-changing breakthroughs, only to revert to old behaviours within the same episode. The finale was also criticised for its anticlimactic ending, where all contestants were declared winners despite earlier hints that some would be excluded.
The show's cancellation comes despite high ratings, suggesting that Netflix prioritised critical reception over viewership. The streaming service has not commented on the decision, but the show's failure to differentiate itself from competitors like Love Island may have been a factor.
