The news that fan-favorite Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms would not be renewed shocked viewers, but it spurred an inventive international effort to get messages on theater marquees and billboards imploring the streaming giant to reconsider. In only three weeks, the signs have emerged in 23 places with one simple message: “Save Julie and the Phantoms.”
The musical comedy-drama follows Julie, who struggles to find inspiration to continue producing music after losing her mother until she encounters a band of ghosts who were on the verge of stardom before their untimely deaths 25 years ago.
The three-time Daytime Emmy Award-winning series, which has a number-one soundtrack, normalizes diversity and representation while effortlessly weaving in themes of optimism and joy that have captivated fans and critics alike.
What began as a single fan’s effort in Sydney, Australia, to pay homage to the show’s references to the ghost band’s dream gig at an Orpheum Theatre has grown into a campaign that has spanned five continents, shining brightly on theatre marquees from Los Angeles to London and billboards from Manila to Rio de Janeiro.
The “Orpheum Tour” is a joint endeavour amongst fans in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Belgium.
Julie and the Phantoms provided inspiration to more than just the fans. LGBT and Latinx characters needed to be represented in mainstream media as well. The tale they were presenting was significant because it did more than just introduce these individuals; it genuinely showcased their lives and voices.
Local theaters in 19 locations across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom have all gladly joined in this crowd-funded campaign, which supports supporting local artists while sharing this message far and wide.
The message has also been featured on billboards in Manila, Philippines, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and outside the PPL Centre in Allentown, Pennsylvania (home of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms).
Fans are continuing to raise the stakes when it comes to attracting the attention of Netflix and others in the hopes of securing a second season of Julie and the Phantoms with a billboard tour throughout the United States.
The Orpheum Tour, which sees the Rescue Julie and the Phantoms Battle take over theaters, cinemas, and billboards throughout the world, is the newest step in the campaign to save the performance.
