The Last Frontier, a thriller series led by actor Jason Clarke, will not return for a second season on Apple TV. The show, which premiered in October with a ten-episode run, concluded its season in early December and has since been officially canceled by the streamer. Reports indicate that Apple chose not to move forward with additional episodes after the conclusion of its first season due to mixed reviews and audience response.
A Serialized Thriller in Alaska
Created by Jon Bokenkamp and Richard D’Ovidio, The Last Frontier cast Clarke as U.S. Marshal Frank Remnick, a lawman stationed in the remote wilderness of Alaska whose quiet life unravels after a prison transport plane crash unleashes dangerous inmates into the local community. The narrative blended action, crime, and survival drama, with a supporting cast that included Dominic Cooper, Haley Bennett, Simone Kessell, Dallas Goldtooth, and Alfre Woodard.
Originally ordered straight to series — meaning the full season was commissioned without a traditional pilot — the drama was positioned as a gritty addition to Apple TV’s growing slate of original programming.
Mixed Critical Reception
The Last Frontier received a mixed response from critics. Review aggregators showed average ratings, with critics noting that the show’s premise began strong but struggled to maintain momentum through its serialized plot. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series held an approval rating reflecting these varied responses, and Metacritic scores likewise pointed to a lukewarm critical consensus.
Insiders and creators had reportedly discussed the potential for future storylines, including shifting settings or expanding the marshal’s jurisdiction beyond Alaska, but Apple opted to end the show after its initial season.
The cancellation adds to a pattern of selective programming decisions at Apple TV, where some shows with strong buzz or initial promise receive only short runs when they do not sustain audience interest or critical acclaim. Apple’s lineup continues to include high-profile series and films, with other dramas and documentary projects remaining active on the platform.
