Kurt Sutter fired from Mayans M.C.
Creator and showrunner fired by FX and Disney following "multiple complaints" over his behaviour.
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Writer and showrunner Kurt Sutter has been fired from Mayans M.C. by FX CEO John Landgraf and Disney TV Studios and ABC Entertainment chairman Dana Walden.
Reports claim he was fired over “multiple complaints” over his behaviour on the spin-off to his hit series Sons of Anarchy.
In a letter to cast and crew Sutter said, “Not the way I wanted to end my 18 year relationship with FX. At least being fired for being an abrasive d*** is on brand.”
Despite being fired, Sutter has not lost an overall deal with 20th Century Fox TV, now owned by Disney.
On Instagram he also posted a photo of Disneyland, calling it “The happiest place on Earth.”
Mayans M.C., currently in the midst of airing its second season, was created by Sutter and Elgin James and airs in Australia on FOX Showcase.
Here is the letter in full:
Dear Team Mayans,
Apparently, Disney HR and Business Affairs has conducted an investigation into the unacceptable conditions that have been created on the set of Mayans in season 2. As you know, I’ve removed myself quite a bit this season, allowing others to take a bigger role in producing the show. It appears that philosophy has backfired. It’s been reported by writers, producers, cast and crew that my absence and subsequent behavior when there, has only created confusion, chaos, hostility and is perceived as abandonment. Or at least that’s how Disney has interpreted it. I’m sure it’s true.
This morning I was fired by Dana Walden and John Landgraf for all the complaints levied against me. Not the way I wanted to end my 18 year relationship with FX. At least being fired for being an abrasive d*** is on brand.
I deeply apologize if I’ve made people feel less than or unsupported. My intention was literally the opposite. But clearly I’ve not been paying attention. My arrogance and chronic distraction has created wreckage. Just know, I adore this cast and crew.
I’m not sure what the fate of Mayans MC holds. But if it continues, you’ll still be in good hands. As I said at the premier, Elgin is ready to take on the challenge of running the show. I’m sure FX will get him the support he needs to find and follow his vision.
For those of you who wanted me gone, you win! For those of you who didn’t, you win too. Although I will no longer be involved, I have no doubt the new team will move things forward with the same quality fans have come to expect.
Thank you for the honor of working with all of you.
I don’t need, nor want, replies or condolences. I know where the love is. And for those of you who have it, I’m sure our paths will cross again.
Best,
ks
Source: Hollywood Reporter
- Tagged with Mayans M.C., Sons of Anarchy
4 Responses
Sutter has a reputation for being an abrasive SOB and it’s super important for a showrunner to be tactful and empathetic towards their staff.
Not normally the kid of comment I’d approve, but he’s basically acknowledged as much himself.
Let’s hope it doesn’t get ‘watered down’ now without the creator, however I have to say it isn’t as good as Sons Of Anarchy.
That’s disappointing to hear.
What’s also disappointing is the second season of Mayans… following the just-ok first season the show is a meandering, small scale hotch potch of characters I still really don’t care about all too much… which is the complete opposite to its incredible parent show.