Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones, the creative duo behind Black Mirror, have officially parted ways with their production company, Broke & Bones, marking a major shift in the future of the acclaimed sci-fi anthology.

Netflix invested $100 million into Broke & Bones in 2020 as part of a five-year exclusive deal, which bound Brooker and Jones to create content solely for the streaming giant. That agreement has now ended, giving the pair freedom to explore projects outside Netflix for the first time in years.

The departure raises questions about whether Black Mirror will return for an eighth season—and if it does, whether its original creators will remain involved. While Netflix may choose to continue the series independently, fans widely agree that Brooker and Jones are integral to the show’s unique vision.

First airing in 2011 on Channel 4 before moving to Netflix in 2015, Black Mirror became a cultural phenomenon with its dystopian takes on technology and society. Season 7 premiered in 2023, and while no renewal has been confirmed, the franchise remains one of Netflix’s most recognized titles.

Though their future with Black Mirror is unclear, the creators’ exit means new opportunities. Brooker previously hinted at interest in writing for other major shows, including Doctor Who. With their Netflix exclusivity lifted, fans may soon see the pair launch fresh projects—or return to their dark, tech-driven universe in a new form.