Despite being the Hargreeves siblings' final outing, The Umbrella Academy season 4 is noticeably short - but why?

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Seasons 1 to 3 all clocked in at 10 episodes, giving plenty of time to follow the dysfunctional family on their mission to save the world from the apocalypse after apocalypse.

But fans were disconcerted when it was revealed that season 4 is cut to almost half the length, at a measly six episodes.

So, what's going on there? We chatted to showrunner Steve Blackman to get his take.

How many episodes are in The Umbrella Academy season 4? Showrunner explains "perfect" length

There are just six episodes in The Umbrella Academy season 4.

Showrunner Blackman exclusively told RadioTimes.com: "We had planned, at one point, for more episodes and then we agreed with Netflix to do six.

Justin H Min as Ben in The Umbrella Academy season 4
Justin H Min as Ben in The Umbrella Academy season 4. Netflix

"At the time, it seemed like the right amount. And, you know, I had to do a little bit of compressing because we thought it’d be a bit more material. But it turned out to be a perfect number.

"I really feel like, could we have done more? Yes, but I think the six we have are just the perfect way to end the season."

How long are the episodes in The Umbrella Academy season 4?

The episodes clock in as follows:

  • Episode 1: The Unbearable Tragedy of Getting What You Want - 52 minutes
  • Episode 2: Jean and Gene - 47 minutes
  • Episode 3: The Squid and the Girl - 56 minutes
  • Episode 4: The Cleanse - 55 minutes
  • Episode 5: Six Years, Five Months, and Two Days - 58 minutes
  • Episode 6: End of Beginning - 69 minutes

The Umbrella Academy seasons 1-4 are streaming now on Netflix.

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Authors

Louise Griffin is the Sci-Fi & Fantasy Editor for Radio Times, covering everything from Doctor Who, Star Wars and Marvel to House of the Dragon and Good Omens. She previously worked at Metro as a Senior Entertainment Reporter and has a degree in English Literature.

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