When Citadel released in India in 2023, Amazon Prime Video promoted it like a grand event. With Priyanka Chopra Jonas as one of the lead stars, the series was everywhere. From interviews and trailers to social media campaigns and premieres, the makers left no stone unturned to create hype around the big-budget spy thriller.
But the response was far from extraordinary.
Despite all the noise, Citadel received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. Many viewers praised the scale and action but complained about the weak story and lack of emotional depth. For a show reportedly made on a massive budget, the impact was underwhelming. Even its spin-offs, including Citadel: Diana and Citadel: Honey Bunny, created only short-lived curiosity and failed to become major success stories.
Now, with Citadel Season 2 set to release next week, the silence is hard to ignore.
Unlike the first season, there is barely any buzz around the new season. The trailer is out and the release date has been announced, but there is no major promotional push, especially in India. Priyanka Chopra, who was a major face of the campaign last time, has not been seen leading the kind of media storm that surrounded the first season.
This lack of excitement is very telling.
Studios usually go all out when they are confident about a product. When the promotion is quiet, it often suggests lowered expectations. Citadel Season 2 may still prove everyone wrong, but for now, Amazon seems far less confident about the future of its ambitious spy universe.