HBO has canceled its new horse racing series ‘Luck’ after a third thoroughbred died during the production of the show, USA Today is reporting. The horse racing drama will air the final two episodes of its current first season. However, the series won’t return for the second season that began production last month.
HBO released a statement about the cancellation, saying “While we maintained the highest safety standards possible, accidents unfortunately happen and it is impossible to guarantee they won’t in the future. Accordingly, we have reached this difficult decision.”
David Milch, the creator of ‘Luck,’ and Michael Mann, his fellow executive producer, decided to end the series after the horse was injured and euthanized on Tuesday at Santa Anita Park racetrack. The horse was being led to a stable when it fell back, suffering a head injury.
HBO agreed to suspend filming with the horses after the humane group that oversees Hollywood productions issued an immediate demand. They asked that “all production involving horses shut down,” pending an investigation.
The horse’s death came after two horses were hurt during racing scenes and euthanized during the production of the first season in 2010 and 2011. HBO defended its treatment of the animals, saying it worked with the American Humane Association and racing industry experts to implement safety protocols that exceeded industry standards. Racing resume after the new protocols were implemented and proved effective.
Written by: Karen Benardello
