Actor Bobby Cannavale is still absorbing the bitter memories of “Vinyl,” the HBO music drama that ended suddenly after only one season in 2016. In a recent Vanity Fair interview, Cannavale discussed the show’s sudden termination and lasting impact on his career.
The series, set in 1970s New York’s music industry, was a passion project that brought together heavyweights such as Martin Scorsese and Mick Jagger. Scorsese chose Cannavale for the starring part after being impressed with his earlier performance on “Boardwalk Empire.”
Despite huge hopes, the show struggled to attract an audience. Cannavale believes that HBO’s promotional tactics had a big role in its downfall. The network made several strategic missteps, including running the two-hour pilot late at night and following a comedy series.
“I felt like I was on a creative journey with Marty that lasted years,” she remarked. The cancellation hit him deeply, resulting in a period of career uncertainty. He said he had a “stink on me” and felt his career had ended.
The blow was particularly severe because HBO had renewed the show for a second season before rapidly reconsidering its decision. Mixed critical reception hampered the series’ brief run.
However, the story is not completely terrible. Scorsese remained supportive, casting Cannavale in “The Irishman” and providing additional professional confirmation. For Cannavale, “Vinyl” is a bittersweet memory—a project with great potential that ultimately fell short.
The show’s abrupt cancelation is a sharp reminder of TV’s unpredictable nature. Even prominent collaborations might struggle to connect with audiences, demonstrating that talent and well-known people do not ensure success.
Despite his dismay, Cannavale’s frank commentary provides an inside glimpse at the difficulty of producing revolutionary television in a competitive media market.
