''Jericho'' canceled by CBS

(FROM THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER) — CBS has decided to end fan favorite Jericho — this time for good. After the popular but low-rated post-nuclear-holocaust drama concluded its first season, fans inundated the network with peanuts to insist that the show remain on the air. Their ploy was successful, if temporarily. Jericho, which stars Skeet Ulrich, returned in the middle of this season in an abbreviated form: Producers shot just seven episodes, including two different finales, one that hints at a third go-around and one that essentially wraps things up. It appears as if the latter conclusion is what will air next week, though sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that there is a chance the show could come back elsewhere, perhaps on cable.

CBS has released the following statement: ”The March 25th episode of Jericho will be the series finale. Without question, there are passionate viewers watching this program; we simply wish there were more. We thank an engaged and spirited fan base for keeping the show alive this long, and an outstanding team of producers, cast and crew that went through creative hoops to deliver a compelling, high quality second season. We have no regrets bringing the show back for a second try. We listened to our viewers, gave the series an opportunity to grow, and the producers put a great story on the screen. We’re proud of everyone’s efforts.” (The Hollywood Reporter)