Is Marco Polo Season 3 Happening? Everything We Know

Summary Netflix canceled Marco Polo season 3 despite a five-season arc planned by creator John Fusco, leaving fans disappointed and hopeful for a revival.

The original cast, including Benedict Wong and Joan Chen, would likely reprise their roles if Marco Polo returns for a third season.

Empress Chabi was rumored to have a bigger role in season 3, potentially shifting focus away from Kublai Khan's character developments.

After Marco Polo season 2 ended with many loose ends, fans have been waiting for Marco Polo season 3 for years. The historical drama series created by John Fusco premiered on Netflix in December 2014. Set in the 13th century, the show chronicles the adventures of the Venetian merchant Marco Polo (Lorenzo Richelmy) in the court of Kublai Khan (Benedict Wong). Despite being one of Netflix's best period dramas with its rich historical backdrop, compelling characters, and lavish production, the series struggled to find a sustainable audience.

The second season, which aired in July 2016, left fans on a cliffhanger, eager to see the continuation of Marco's journey and the fate of the Mongol Empire. The season 2 finale saw numerous plotlines converging into a dramatic conclusion; Empress Chabi (Joan Chen) played a significant role in the political machinations of the court, while Marco Polo faced personal and political challenges. The season ended with the Kokachin's shocking death, which left Marco unaware of the tragedy that had unfolded. This unresolved ending has led to ongoing speculation and hope among fans for a potential Marco Polo season 3.

Related 10 Shows To Watch If You Like Marco Polo Marco Polo is a historical epic focusing on the exploits of the famed Italian explorer and his encounters with Kublai Khan, the Mongol imperial ruler.

Marco Polo Season 3 Is Not Confirmed

Creator John Fusco Pitched A Movie After Netflix Canceled The Show

Despite the loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, Netflix officially canceled Marco Polo after its second season in December 2016. Reports indicate that the series resulted in a staggering $200 million loss for the streaming giant (via THR). The show's high production costs, including elaborate sets, costumes, and international filming locations, were not offset by its viewership numbers. This financial strain ultimately led to the show's premature end.

Creator John Fusco had initially envisioned a five-season arc for Marco Polo, intending to delve deeper into the historical narrative and character development. Fusco revealed (via The Guardian):

“had a long arc worked out, following the signposts of history... I don’t know if I’ll ever get over it. There’s no other way to describe it – it was crushing.”

Following the cancellation, however, Fusco expressed his disappointment and revealed that he had pitched a movie to Netflix to provide closure for the series. However, this proposal was also declined, leaving the story of Marco Polo and Kublai Khan unfinished. Fans have since been left to wonder what could have been, holding on to the hope that another network or platform might one day revive the series.

Fusco also revealed in the Guardian interview that the writers had 10 hours of Marco Polo season 3 ready to go.

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Marco Polo Season 3 Cast

Benedict Wong Was Rumored To Have A Smaller Role Before Marco Polo Was Officially Canceled

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Actors/Characters Who Would Likely Return in Marco Polo Season 3 Actor Name Character Name Best-Known Movies Benedict Wong Kublai Khan Doctor Strange, The Martian, Annihilation Joan Chen Empress Chabi The Last Emperor, Twin Peaks, Lust, Caution Lorenzo Richelmy Marco Polo The Girl in the Fog, Hotel Portofino Remy Hii Prince Jingim Crazy Rich Asians, Spider-Man: Far From Home

If Marco Polo were to return for a third season, the original cast would likely reprise their roles. Benedict Wong, who portrayed the formidable Kublai Khan, would be a pivotal character despite rumors of his reduced role due to his commitment as Wong in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (via Ecumenical News). Joan Chen's Empress Chabi, a character known for her political acumen and influence within the court, would also be expected to return. Her dynamic with Kublai Khan and her own personal ambitions provided a rich layer to the narrative.

Lorenzo Richelmy, as the titular Marco Polo, would continue to guide the audience through the complex world of Mongol politics and warfare. Additionally, Remy Hii, who played Prince Jingim, Kublai Khan's son, would likely reprise his role, further exploring his character's development and his relationship with his father and the empire.

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Marco Polo Season 3 Story

Empress Chabi Would Likely Have Had A Much Bigger Role

Before its cancellation, intriguing hints about the direction Marco Polo season 3 might take were circulating. Rumors suggested that Kublai Khan's role would be scaled back, potentially due to Benedict Wong's commitments to his significant role in the MCU. This shift would have given Empress Chabi an even more prominent position, allowing Chen's character to take center stage in the political and personal dramas of the court.

The death of Kokachin, who died by suicide, would have profound repercussions for the characters, particularly Marco Polo.

The new season would have also continued directly from the dramatic events of season 2. The death of Kokachin, who died by suicide, would have profound repercussions for the characters, particularly Marco Polo. The third season would likely explore Marco's reaction to this tragedy and its impact on his relationship with the Mongol court. Additionally, the power struggles and intrigue within Kublai Khan's empire would continue to unfold, providing a rich tapestry of historical drama and personal conflict. While the specifics remain speculative, the potential for compelling storytelling in a third season of Marco Polo remains undeniable.

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Sources: The Guardian, THR, Ecumenical News