“The Final Frontier Beckons: Why The Expanse Deserves a Second Chance on Prime Video” If you’re a fan of gritty, thought-provoking science fiction, you’re not alone. For the past decade, Amazon’s Prime Video has been the go-to destination for space enthusiasts, with hits like The Expanse captivating audiences with its authentic portrayal of a future where humanity has colonized the solar system. However, in a shocking turn of events, it appears that Prime Video may be on the verge of pulling the plug on the critically-acclaimed show. But what makes The Expanse more than just a space-superior ‘Game of Thrones in the cosmos’? With its complex characters, pulse-pounding action, and searing social commentary, The Expanse is a true sci-fi masterpiece that deserves a second chance to thrive. So, what’s behind this sudden uncertainty, and can Prime Video find a way to save this beloved show?
The Looming Removal of The Expanse from Prime Video

Upsettingly, the first three seasons of my favourite sci-fi show, The Expanse, are reportedly about to be cruelly removed from Prime Video and it’s happening this Friday (February 7), giving you just a few short days to binge-watch them all! I’m sure that there will still be a way to watch the first three seasons on one of the best streaming services somewhere eventually (I hope), but if you’re a Prime Video subscriber then this will be your last chance to watch it as part of your subscription.
That’s according to reports from Prime Video subscribers who have seen a message appear next to the title saying that it’s ‘leaving soon’, but these messages are no longer available at the time of writing (we have contacted Prime Video asking for clarification and will update this article as soon as we hear back). If you’ve never heard of The Expanse before, then let me fill you in on some essential lore of the finest sci-fi series you haven’t watched yet.
The Essence of The Expanse
The show’s origins and its faithful adaptation from the book series
The show is based on the superb series of books (not to mention short stories and novellas) by James S.A.Corey, which is the joint pen name for two authors, called Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, that starts with Leviathan Wakes, and ends with the ninth and final book, Leviathan Falls. As always, the books are better than the TV show, but the TV series is still mostly faithful to the books and astoundingly good, even if it doesn’t cover the entire story – it stops at book six.
The Expanse’s unique blend of politics, intrigue, and science fiction
The original TV series was produced by The SyFy Network and got canceled after its first three seasons. After that Amazon acquired the rights and produced three more seasons – you can see the bump up in budget this produced on screen – and it’s those original three seasons that are supposedly about to disappear from Prime Video for good.
The Science Fiction that Sets The Expanse Apart
Physics in Space
The show’s commitment to scientific accuracy and plausibility is one of the things that sets it apart from other sci-fi shows. The Epstein Drive, for example, is a key technology in the show’s space travel, providing plausible explanations for how space ships can travel such long distances in a relatively short period of time.
Gritty Realism in Space Battles
The Expanse’s realistic depiction of space combat and its effects is another thing that sets it apart from other sci-fi shows. The beam weapons, like the rail gun, don’t cause massive explosions, instead they chop through the hull of a ship like a wire through a block of cheese. And the tactical maneuvers the captains pull off are a joy to watch.
Why The Expanse is More than Just Game of Thrones in Space
The Human Element
One of the main reasons why The Expanse is more than just Game of Thrones in space is its focus on character development and human relationships. The show explores the tensions between factions and the consequences of their actions, but it never loses sight of the human element.
A Rich and Immersive Universe
Another reason why The Expanse is more than just Game of Thrones in space is its expansive (pun intended) universe and its many complexities. The implications of humanity’s colonization of the solar system are explored in depth, making for a rich and immersive viewing experience.
Conclusion
As we stand at the precipice of potentially losing The Expanse on Prime Video, it’s essential to reiterate the significance of this sci-fi masterpiece. The article has thoroughly debunked the misconception that The Expanse is simply “Game of Thrones in space,” highlighting its unique blend of realistic science, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. We’ve also delved into the show’s remarkable ability to balance action, drama, and social commentary, making it a standout in the sci-fi genre.
The potential removal of The Expanse from Prime Video serves as a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of streaming services and the importance of preserving cultural gems. As we move forward in the ever-changing landscape of streaming, it’s crucial that we, as consumers, recognize the value of shows like The Expanse and advocate for their continued availability. The implications of losing this show extend beyond mere entertainment; it would be a loss for the sci-fi community, for representation, and for the very fabric of our cultural heritage.