Everyone loves science fiction to some degree. Artists such as Mel Brooks have made successful comedic parodies of science fiction movies, but television sitcom series prior to 2016 were not as successful in this arena. There is, however, a show that has changed this trend (or lack thereof). The Orville, a parody of science fiction movies and television shows, became a hit with fans of the genre.
Series creator and star Seth MacFarlane has put his visionary mind into this show, and it has won over the fans so far. From older Star Wars geeks to the Gen Z comedic fans, the creator of other humorous offerings such as Family Guy and The Cleveland Show has taken parody to a whole new level. With that said, success has come with a steep price. Now that The Orville season three is coming to Hulu this summer, let’s see what to expect!
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New Confirmed Release Date
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The premiere of The Orville season three has been postponed multiple times. While many of the delays have been related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the last delay involving the March 10, 2022, premiere was rescheduled to June 2022. The sitcom also changed networks, with Hulu being the new official home. After two seasons on Fox, MacFarlane believes the streaming service is a better platform for the type of parody and humor he makes, saying,
In turn, there is no doubt Hulu is happy to host yet another popular show created by the writer and animator.
New Space Adventures, Same Crew
In addition to a new network, the show has also been given a new name. Instead of being known simply as The Orville, it is now titled The Orville: Dark Horizons. Fans can only assume the name change is to reflect the ominous nature of this season’s storyline. Season two ended in a cliffhanger where the ship was being overtaken by other beings from crew member Isaac’s (Mark Jackson) homeworld. The robot has morphed from a kind, loving friend to a killing machine chosen to represent his planet in the takeover of the galaxy. It takes some masterful talent to accomplish these types of personality changes on the drop of a dime.
Fans are currently involved in a debate regarding the release of the first four minutes of the season three trailer. Some fans believe the opening sequence is a copy of the Star Trek battle of Wolf 359 where Starfleet and allies engaged in battle with the Borg. However, others believe the similarity is entirely coincidental. Even the new opening credits scene is a huge reminder of the credits for Star Trek: Voyager. It appears MacFarlane and company have succeeded in creating the ultimate science fiction parody based on one of his favorite series. This is an accomplishment that few people in Hollywood have achieved, including Mel Brooks. With that said, what is next for the captain and crew of The Orville: Dark Horizons?
Speaking of the crew, it appears as though most of the cast is returning for the third outing of The Orville. The cast includes MacFarlane (as Captain Ed Mercer), Adrianne Palicki (Cmdr. Kelly Grayson), Scott Grimes (Lt. Gordon Malloy), Penny Johnson Jerald (Dr. Claire Finn), Peter Macon (Lt. Cmdr. Bortus), J. Lee (Lt. Cmdr. John LaMarr), Mark Jackson (Isaac), Chad L. Coleman (Klyden), Jessica Szohr (Lt. Talla Keyali), and recruit Anne Winters (13 Reasons Why, Tyrant) as Ensign Charly Burke.
According to rumors, the show will more than likely be renewed for a fourth season. Will the third season merely have high ratings because of the show’s lengthy hiatus, or will it be good enough to warrant a fourth-year onscreen? Currently, the answer is split between these two options. It is possible the season could dip in ratings and not be renewed. However, the anticipation combined with the upgraded special effects and storyline should make for the best season yet.
In summary, the season three premiere of The Orville is long overdue.
