When Netflix struck gold with Orange Is the New Black, the streaming giant was eager to replicate that magic. Enter GLOW, a 2017 creation by Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch that took a wildly different yet equally compelling route. Set in the glitzy, neon-soaked 1980s, the show follows a ragtag group of Hollywood has-beens and hopefuls who stumble into the world of women's professional wrestling. The result? A series that blends campy fun with genuine emotional depth, making it a standout in Netflix's library.
For three seasons, GLOW delivered a masterclass in character-driven storytelling. It wasn't just about the wrestling—though the in-ring action was thrilling—but about the bonds forged between women who had every reason to be rivals. The show tackled ambition, friendship, and societal expectations with a deft touch, never reducing its diverse cast to stereotypes. Instead, it gave each character a chance to shine, both in and out of the ring.
A Story of Rivalry and Redemption
At its core, GLOW revolves around the fractured friendship between Ruth Wilder (Alison Brie), a struggling actress desperate for a break, and Debbie Eagen (Betty Gilpin), a former soap star trying to rebuild her life after a painful divorce. Their conflict—sparked by Ruth's affair with Debbie's husband—sets the stage for a rocky road to reconciliation. But as they channel their animosity into their wrestling personas, they discover a shared strength that transcends their past.
Yet, GLOW is far from a two-woman show. The ensemble cast, including Jackie Tohn as the scene-stealing Melrose, Sydelle Noel as the fierce Cherry, and Gayle Rankin as the enigmatic Sheila the She Wolf, each get moments to shine. Their characters evolve from reluctant teammates to a united sisterhood, and watching that transformation is pure joy.
A Cast That Launched Careers
One of the show's lasting legacies is its cast, many of whom have since become household names. Betty Gilpin earned an Emmy nomination for her role in Widow's Bay, while Alison Brie brought laughs to Masters of the Universe. Jackie Tohn now stars in Netflix's hit rom-com series Nobody Wants This, and Sydelle Noel has joined the cast of Reacher as Detective Tamara Green. Gayle Rankin, meanwhile, has taken on the intriguing role of Alys Rivers in House of the Dragon. It's a testament to the show's casting that so many of its stars have flourished.
The Unfortunate Cancellation
Despite its critical acclaim and devoted fanbase, GLOW was dealt a cruel hand. In 2019, Netflix renewed the show for a fourth and final season, but production was halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. By October 2020, creators Flahive and Mensch confirmed the show was canceled, citing concerns over the physically intimate nature of the wrestling scenes and the risk of a mass outbreak on set. The decision was part of a wave of cancellations that also claimed The Society and I Am Not Okay With This.
Still, fans haven't given up hope. There's a precedent for shows getting a proper send-off, as seen with Deadwood and more recently, Peaky Blinders and Heartstopper, both of which received feature-length finales. With a roadmap for Season 4 already in place, a GLOW revival movie could provide the closure the series deserves. Until then, the three existing seasons remain a binge-worthy gem.
Why It's Perfect for a Weekend Binge
With its tight pacing, sharp dialogue, and emotional payoff, GLOW is tailor-made for a weekend marathon. Each season builds on the last, and the character arcs are so compelling that you'll find yourself rooting for these women long after the credits roll. Whether you're a wrestling fan or just love great television, GLOW is a must-watch. And if you're looking for more shows to add to your queue, check out Netflix's most-watched shows for other binge-worthy picks.
So, as you plan your weekend viewing, consider giving GLOW a shot. It may have been cut short, but its three seasons are a testament to what happens when talented creators and a brilliant cast come together. And who knows? Maybe a revival is just around the corner. Until then, enjoy the ride.
