Peyton Alex Smith, the original male lead of the CW’s All American: Homecoming, will not return as a series regular for the show’s third season. This news, along with other cast changes, comes after significant budget cuts were implemented following the CW’s acquisition by Nexstar. While Smith’s departure as a series regular raises questions, he is expected to recur in the upcoming season.
Budget Cuts and Cast Reductions Lead to Departures
The CW’s new ownership has focused on profitability, shifting towards lower-cost programming. This resulted in the cancellation of numerous scripted series and significant budget cuts for the few renewals, including All American: Homecoming. These cuts necessitated reducing the number of series regulars to lower production costs.
All American Homecoming Cast
All American: Homecoming isn’t the only show affected by this cost-saving strategy. Superman & Lois, also renewed, experienced similar cast reductions, with only four of twelve series regulars returning in the same capacity. This trend extends beyond the CW, impacting shows across various networks. WBTV’s Bob ❤️ Abishola, for example, saw only the two leads retained as series regulars for its upcoming season due to licensing fee reductions. Similarly, actors on Wolf Entertainment’s NBC drama series faced reduced episodic guarantees.
Kelly Jenrette Also Stepping Back
Alongside Peyton Alex Smith, Kelly Jenrette will also not return as a series regular. However, unlike Smith, Jenrette’s decision was reportedly made in collaboration with her team, opting to recur rather than accept reduced episodic guarantees. This suggests a potential difference in the circumstances surrounding their departures.
Other Cast Members’ Status
While Smith and Jenrette are stepping back, other cast members will return for Season 3. Geffri Maya, Sylvester Powell, Netta Walker, and Mitchell Edwards will continue as series regulars. Cory Hardrict and Rhoyle Ivy King will also return as series regulars but with reduced episodic guarantees, indicating their presence in fewer episodes. The status of Camille Hyde, who plays Thea Mays, remains to be determined.
A Common Trend in the Industry
Cast reductions and renegotiated contracts have become increasingly prevalent in the television industry, driven by financial pressures and declining linear ratings. The situation with All American: Homecoming reflects a broader industry trend of adapting to changing economic realities. Even established shows like CBS’s Blue Bloods have seen cast members accept pay cuts to secure renewals. These changes highlight the challenges networks and production companies face in balancing financial viability with maintaining creative quality and retaining talent.
While the specific reasons for Peyton Alex Smith’s departure haven’t been officially disclosed, the financial constraints imposed on All American: Homecoming likely played a significant role. His expected recurring role suggests the possibility of his character’s storyline continuing, albeit with a reduced presence. The long-term impact of these cast changes on the show’s narrative and future remains to be seen.
