The show was an instant hit with viewers, heralded as much for its unique storytelling and compelling performances as it was for unapologetically centring the LGBTQ+ trailblazer in a sensitive, nuanced and historically accurate light.

So profound was its impact the the BBC recently aired Gentleman Jack Changed My Life, a heart-warming documentary exploring how the TV show had positively, and in some cases dramatically, changed the lives of British women of all ages.

The news is especially sad given that Wainwright had recently expressed her hopes to continue the story, telling Newsweek that she had five or six more years of Lister’s life to explore from the diary entries. The show was reviewed positively both by viewers and critics alike, with a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for critics, and an even higher 93% rating with audiences. After the news broke, the internet was outraged, confused and disappointed in equal measure.

Gentleman Jack has been cancelled by HBO after 2 seasons, and the internet is heartbroken and outraged