“Mayans M.C.” co-showrunner Kurt Sutter has been fired from the FX drama he created.
Cast and crew members on the “Sons of Anarchy” spinoff were notified of Sutter’s departure on Wednesday in an email from Sutter following multiple complaints about his behavior, according to an individual familiar with the situation
The Hollywood Reporter, which was first to report the news, obtained a copy of Sutter’s note to staff, in which he names Disney’s Dana Walden and FX’s John Landgraf as the executives who fired him and describes himself as “an abrasive dick.”
“I deeply apologize if I’ve made people feel less than or unsupported,” he wrote. “My intention was literally the opposite. But clearly I’ve not been paying attention. My arrogance and chronic distraction has created wreckage. Just know, I adore this cast and crew.”
Representatives for FX and Fox 21 Television Studios, which produces the show, declined to comment on Sutter’s departure. Reps for Sutter did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment.
Sutter had been at FX since starting as a staff writer on “The Shield” in 2002. He went on to create “Sons of Anarchy” and “The Bastard Executioner” for the network, before co-creating “Mayans” with Elgin James in 2018. Season 2 of “Mayans” started airing in August, with the season finale set to air next month.
The news comes about two months after Sutter announced plans to step down from the show at the end of the season, leaving it in the hands of his co-showrunner James should FX pick up a third season. “It’s time for the white man to leave the building,” Sutter said at the time.
Read Sutter’s full memo below:
Dear Team Mayans,
Apparently, Disney HR and Business Affairs has conducted an investigation into the unacceptable conditions that have been created on the set of Mayans in season 2. As you know, I’ve removed myself quite a bit this season, allowing others to take a bigger role in producing the show. It appears that philosophy has backfired. It’s been reported by writers, producers, cast and crew that my absence and subsequent behavior when there, has only created confusion, chaos, hostility and is perceived as abandonment. Or at least that’s how Disney has interpreted it. I’m sure it’s true.
This morning I was fired by Dana Walden and John Landgraf for all the complaints levied against me. Not the way I wanted to end my 18 year relationship with FX. At least being fired for being an abrasive dick is on brand.
I deeply apologize if I’ve made people feel less than or unsupported. My intention was literally the opposite. But clearly I’ve not been paying attention. My arrogance and chronic distraction has created wreckage. Just know, I adore this cast and crew.
I’m not sure what the fate of Mayans MC holds. But if it continues, you’ll still be in good hands. As I said at the premier, Elgin is ready to take on the challenge of running the show. I’m sure FX will get him the support he needs to find and follow his vision.
For those of you who wanted me gone, you win! For those of you who didn’t, you win too. Although I will no longer be involved, I have no doubt the new team will move things forward with the same quality fans have come to expect.
Thank you for the honor of working with all of you.
I don’t need, nor want, replies or condolences. I know where the love is. And for those of you who have it, I’m sure our paths will cross again.
Best,
ks