FX fires Sons of Anarchy, Mayans M.C. creator Kurt Sutter for bad behavior

Deep into airing its second season on FX, Mayans M.C. has lost showrunner Kurt Sutter over what sources told The Hollywood Reporter were “multiple complaints” regarding his behavior on set. Or, as Sutter himself put it in a letter about his firing sent to the cast and crew, “being an abrasive dick.”

Sutter worked at FX Networks for over 18 years, first as a writer on The Shield, then as showrunner on Sons of Anarchy, and finally as showrunner on Sons spinoff Mayans M.C. (we won’t mention The Bastard Executioner). From the beginning, Sutter’s stated plan for Mayans was to hand the reins over to co-showrunner Elgin James (or as Sutter put it, to “get the white guy out of the room as quickly as possible”), although we’re guessing this wasn’t how he saw it panning out.

Sutter long had a contentious relationship with management, and by his own admission kept a framed copy of a letter detailing his “unprofessional behavior” while working on Sons, specifically noting how he told an executive to “crawl the fuck out of my ass” about the show’s budget. Possibly complicating matters was the fact that Disney acquired FX as part of its purchase of Fox Entertainment last year. Maybe Sutter got away with that kind of stuff with Fox, but Disney…

What Sutter’s departure means for the future of Mayans is unknown, as FX has yet to officially greenlight a third season. As for Sutter, the outspoken writer is already looking for a new gig, and taking shots at his Disney overlords in the process.

Here’s his full letter to his team:

"Dear Team Mayans,Apparently, Disney HR and Business Affairs has conducted an investigation into the unacceptable conditions that have been created on the set of Mayans in season 2. As you know, I’ve removed myself quite a bit this season, allowing others to take a bigger role in producing the show. It appears that philosophy has backfired. It’s been reported by writers, producers, cast and crew that my absence and subsequent behavior when there, has only created confusion, chaos, hostility and is perceived as abandonment. Or at least that’s how Disney has interpreted it. I’m sure it’s true.This morning I was fired by Dana Walden and John Landgraf for all the complaints levied against me. Not the way I wanted to end my 18 year relationship with FX. At least being fired for being an abrasive dick is on brand.I deeply apologize if I’ve made people feel less than or unsupported. My intention was literally the opposite. But clearly I’ve not been paying attention. My arrogance and chronic distraction has created wreckage. Just know, I adore this cast and crew.I’m not sure what the fate of Mayans MC holds. But if it continues, you’ll still be in good hands. As I said at the premier, Elgin is ready to take on the challenge of running the show. I’m sure FX will get him the support he needs to find and follow his vision.For those of you who wanted me gone, you win! For those of you who didn’t, you win too. Although I will no longer be involved, I have no doubt the new team will move things forward with the same quality fans have come to expect.Thank you for the honor of working with all of you.I don’t need, nor want, replies or condolences. I know where the love is. And for those of you who have it, I’m sure our paths will cross again.Best,ks"

New episode of Mayans M.C. air Tuesday nights on FX.

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