Image credit – Fox Broadcasting Inc.
Author’s Score
18/20
More stories to tell?
When The Cleaning Lady aired on Netflix, it was an easy watch with no fuss. The characters did not have much depth, but they were likeable. The four seasons can keep many viewers engaged, as the cliffhangers in each episode encourage you to keep watching. Elodie Yung plays a significant role in telling the story, and she makes the plot easy to follow and digest. Her character is fierce, with shades of Queen of the South. She portrays a strong mother who will do anything for her child, as well as a protector who will go to any length for her family. These maternal traits make the story compelling, showing just how far a parent will go when their child is threatened.
The series highlights the struggles of undocumented immigrants in America who do not fit into the system but continue to fight for their rights. It also explores how the FBI can pressure them into believing they are doing the right thing. One of the strengths of the show is how it shifts between storylines, often taking viewers into subplots that are just as engaging as the main narrative. The handling of the death of Adan Canto was done well, allowing his character to be written out respectfully. Choosing not to replace him directly was a smart decision, although introducing a new character with similar traits followed a familiar screenwriting approach.
There are moments in the series that feel slow, and it is clear why the ratings dropped. After season two, it felt as though the writers were trying to reshape the story, particularly with the introduction of the Sin Cara storyline. It seemed difficult to integrate, and it may have worked better if it had been introduced earlier. By season three, the show began to regain momentum, with new characters that audiences started to connect with. Season four was strong, with a solid screenplay, and many viewers were pleased to see Thony move on from her struggles, working with the cartel while continuing as a doctor. Her journey reflects a form of rags to riches story that ties into the idea of the American dream.
The decision by Fox Broadcasting Company to cancel the show feels surprising, especially when other series on the network continue to be renewed. There could be several reasons, such as budget constraints or uncertainty about the show’s long term potential. The marketing was also limited, as many international viewers only discovered it after its release on Netflix in April. There is a strong case for Netflix to revive the series, much like it did with Top Boy. Since arriving on Netflix, The Cleaning Lady has remained in the top ten in the UK and other countries for several weeks, with season one attracting around 18.8 million viewers on Netflix. Audiences are still invested in Thony’s story, wondering whether she will rise to become a cartel leader and what decisions she would make in that role. These unanswered questions make a reboot feel not only possible, but necessary.
