“I also sought wisdom from stoic philosophers who were great at distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not,” he wrote. ‘I realized I could not control the creative direction of the series, but I could control how I reacted. So, I have chosen to leave the project. It was the hardest professional decision I have ever had to make, and certainly not one that I took lightly, but it was necessary for my happiness and creative integrity. ”
However, he added that the Netflix show “has the potential to be good.” It just will not be what he had in mind. But do not be afraid Avatar fans, DiMartino says he does not leave the universe of the series, and he is inspired by the recent fan-reaction to the show and its subsequent series, The Legend of Korra. (And if you’re interested, I podcast about everything Korra while it was airing.)
The departure of DiMartino and Konietzko could also be a signal to other makers. Netflix may seem like a hospitable creative home away from traditional networks, but you may not always trust it. If the makers of one of the world’s most popular shows could not compromise with Netflix, what’s the chance then a less powerful artist?
