The trickster African spider-god Mr. Nancy has been fan-favorite of American Gods for two seasons now. With actor Orlando Jones really making the role his own and even being a writer and a producer for the show in the past season, he has now surprisingly been let go from the role.
Jones released a statement via twitter, explaining the situation and thanking fans for their support. It seems that the new show runner has decided to cut Mr. Nancy, since apparently the character is "sending the wrong message for African-American viewers." In his statement Mr. Jones also offers his own opinion on the producers interesting vision.
Mr. Nancy is iconic and important character in the neo-mythology lore that Neil Gaiman presents in his acclaimed book, which the show is based on. The character even received his own spin-off novel, Anansi boys. This also raises some questions about the shows future. American Gods has never shed away from shocking story telling. With Mr. Nancy cut of like this, does this mean that the tone of the show is also changing? This might undoubtedly upset some longtime fans.