Reimagining a beloved character is no easy feat, but The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina managed to carve out a unique identity while honouring its source material. With its darkly enchanting blend of horror, drama, and teenage rebellion, the series captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Yet, despite its bold storytelling and devoted fanbase, Netflix cancelled Sabrina in July 2020 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving fans yearning for more of its spellbinding universe.
A Darker Twist on a Familiar Tale
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, developed by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, was based on the Archie Comics series of the same name. A stark departure from the lighthearted tone of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, this adaptation leaned into horror, crafting a narrative steeped in occult lore and gothic aesthetics. The story follows Sabrina Spellman (Kiernan Shipka), a half-witch, half-mortal teen navigating the dual pressures of high school and her family’s ties to the Church of Night.
Set in the eerie town of Greendale, Sabrina’s journey oscillates between the mortal realm and the darker corners of the supernatural world. Torn between her mortal friends and her witch heritage, Sabrina’s struggles reflect universal themes of identity, belonging, and the quest for autonomy.
Themes That Enchanted
At its heart, Sabrina was a story about empowerment and the defiance of expectations. Sabrina’s refusal to conform to the patriarchal norms of the magical community resonated deeply, making her a symbol of youthful rebellion. Her battle against the Dark Lord, and later her navigation of cosmic threats, elevated the stakes, creating a narrative that felt both personal and epic.
The series also explored themes of family and legacy. The Spellman family—including Aunt Zelda (Miranda Otto), Aunt Hilda (Lucy Davis), and cousin Ambrose (Chance Perdomo)—offered a mix of warmth, conflict, and humour, grounding the fantastical elements of the story. Meanwhile, Sabrina’s friendships with Roz (Jaz Sinclair), Harvey (Ross Lynch), and Theo (Lachlan Watson) added a layer of relatability, showcasing the strength of found family.
Stellar Performances
Kiernan Shipka’s portrayal of Sabrina was nothing short of iconic. She brought a perfect balance of vulnerability and determination to the role, making Sabrina’s struggles feel authentic. Shipka’s chemistry with the rest of the cast elevated the series, particularly her interactions with Gavin Leatherwood’s Nick Scratch, whose morally ambiguous character added depth to their tumultuous romance.
Miranda Otto’s portrayal of Zelda Spellman was a standout, capturing the character’s sharp wit and unwavering loyalty. Lucy Davis’ Hilda provided a delightful contrast with her warm, nurturing presence. Together, the Spellman family brought heart and complexity to the show, grounding its supernatural escapades.
A Visual and Musical Feast
Visually, Sabrina was a masterpiece. The series’ gothic aesthetic—complete with shadowy mansions, arcane symbols, and haunting rituals—created a world that felt both magical and menacing. The production design and costumes were meticulously crafted, adding richness to the narrative.
The music also played a vital role, with an eclectic soundtrack that blended eerie instrumentals and contemporary hits to enhance the show’s atmosphere. From haunting renditions of classic songs to original scores, the music became a character in its own right.
The Cancellation That Cast a Shadow
In July 2020, Netflix announced the cancellation of The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as a contributing factor. The decision shocked fans, as the series had maintained strong viewership and critical acclaim. The show’s fourth season, released in December 2020, served as its final chapter, wrapping up many storylines but leaving others open-ended.
Two crossovers with Riverdale provided some closure for fans. As part of the sixth season of Riverdale, Sabrina appeared in a story arc that aired from December 7, 2021, to July 10, 2022. These episodes offered a satisfying continuation of Sabrina’s journey, with Kiernan Shipka reprising her role to resolve lingering plot points.
Additionally, a comic book continuation titled The Occult World of Sabrina was announced, promising to expand the series’ mythology. While these developments offered some solace, they couldn’t fully replace the show’s absence.
What Might Have Been
Had Sabrina continued, the series could have delved deeper into the consequences of Sabrina’s actions, particularly her decision to create a time loop that resulted in two versions of herself. This intriguing twist—which left one Sabrina ruling as Queen of Hell and the other living a mortal life—was ripe for further exploration, offering endless possibilities for conflict and growth.
The show could have also expanded its focus on supporting characters. Ambrose’s intellect and magical prowess, Theo’s journey of self-discovery, and Roz’s emerging powers all held untapped potential. New threats from the supernatural and cosmic realms could have tested the Spellman family’s bonds, while further crossovers with Riverdale might have bridged the two series’ narratives in exciting ways.
Why Sabrina Still Matters
Despite its cancellation, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina remains a landmark in modern supernatural storytelling. Its bold aesthetic, complex characters, and feminist undertones set it apart, making it a standout entry in the genre. The series’ themes of self-determination, resilience, and the power of community continue to resonate with viewers, ensuring its enduring appeal.
For fans, Sabrina is more than just a show—it’s a testament to the magic of daring storytelling. Its legacy lives on in the hearts of its audience, the pages of its comic continuation, and the echoes of its crossover episodes. While its run may have been cut short, its spirit endures, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found.
Here’s to The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: a series that cast a spell over its audience and proved that magic is timeless.
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