HBO has announced that Westworld will return for a season 4. The decision to continue the network’s futuristic sci-fi series was commented on by HBO programming president Casey Bloys, who stated: “From the Western theme park to the technocratic metropolis of the near future, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed every twist and turn from the minds of master storytellers Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy. We can’t wait to see where their inspired vision takes us next.”
Though it seems Westworld’s viewer numbers are down compared to last season, The Hollywood Reporter’s sources say the season 4 renewal is partially tied to a deal signed by showrunners Nolan and Joy that will eventually bring the sci-fi show to six seasons. Even with ratings that aren’t explosive, the show remains as one of HBO’s key offerings.
Westworld season 3 began on March 15, marking the show’s return after a break of nearly two years. Season 3 brought with it a new cast member in Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul and is delivering a concise eight-episode season. Comparatively, Westworld seasons 1 and 2 included 10 episodes each. Details on season 4 are scarce, so there’s no word on an episode count or premiere date just yet.
The Escapist’s Darren Mooney explored last month what Westworld‘s season 3 reinvention meant for the series going forward.