News: Hannibal Not Airing Fourth Episode

Looks like we may have to wait a while until we get to see the fourth episode of Hannibal, entitled Coquilles. Due to the recent social climate in America (Boston bombings and Sandy Hook shooting), the shows’ creator Bryan Fuller has decided to pull the episode from NBC’s schedule. He explains...

“I didn’t want to have anyone come to the show and have a negative experience. Whenever you [write] a story and look at the sensational aspects of storytelling, you think, ‘This is interesting metaphorically, and this is interesting as social commentary.’ With this episode, it wasn’t about the graphic imagery or violence. It was the associations that came with the subject matter that I felt would inhibit the enjoyment of the overall episode… It was my own sensitivity.” 

Apparently episode five will air as normal and despite forgoing episode four, continuity  will not be an issue. NBC and Fuller will help as much as possible by providing clips online, with additional director’s commentary, to fill any gaps regarding character development.

As much as I understand Fullers reasoning, it is, at the same time, a great shame the decision was made. The preview at the end of episode three (my review of which can be found here), looked to promise an exhilarating episode with some great imagery. In case you missed the teaser, you can catch it below. Rumour has it episode 4 will still be available over seas and most definitely available on DVD upon the inevitable box set release. 

Hannibal will continue to air as normal in the proceeding weeks.