CBS viewers were heartbroken to learn the long-running procedural drama, NCIS: Los Angeles would be coming to an end with the season 14 finale. Although the network has remained tight-lipped about the reasons, here’s what we know about the cancellation.
NCIS: Los Angeles took viewers by storm after it became the first spin-off to come from the wildly popular NCIS franchise.
The drama premiered in 2009 and has remained a network favourite among longtime fans and has maintained steady ratings.
Following the successful franchise crossover in January, viewers were taken aback by CBS’ decision to not renew the spin-off for season 15.
While many were shocked the hear about the show’s sudden end, CBS did not explain their reasons for this.
Despite this, Deadline speculated the reason NCIS: Los Angeles is coming to an end could be down to budget cuts.
In January, the publication reported: “The cancellation of a long-running drama with big-name leads filming in LA should not come as a shock given the big price tag involved, especially at a time when networks across the board are looking to cut their spending.”
This was unexpected news as the drama has since tied as the fifth longest-running CBS primetime scripted show ever and had strong ratings from the crossover special.
While NCIS Los Angeles will come to an end, CBS will continue with its original NCIS drama and the franchise’s latest spin-off, NCIS Hawaii.
The cancellation announcement was released as a statement from the president of CBS Entertainment, Amy Reisenbach.
She disclosed: “For 14 seasons, NCIS: Los Angeles has been a stalwart of our lineup with characters who were a joy to watch.
“It’s no surprise this show succeeded as a global franchise.
“From day one, the cast, producers and crew were amazing Network/Studios partners, and their teamwork, talent and spirit vividly came through on the screen.”
Amy continued: “We are so grateful for the collaboration and remarkable run of these treasured members of our CBS family, and plan to give them the big sendoff they and their fans deserve.”
The showrunner, R Scott Gemmill provided insight into the season 14 finale as he thanked the cast, crew and fans in his statement.
He said: “ I want to thank both the network and studios for their partnership and support over the years.
“Shane Brennan for giving us such a great playground; and my partners John P. Kousakis, Frank Military, Kyle Harimoto, and Andrew Bartels for their tireless efforts and collaboration episode after episode.”
R Scott Gemmill stated: “Our crew has grown to be a true family, and their hard work and dedication has been fundamental to our success year after year.
“My deepest gratitude to the cast members, who have brought our characters to life with their impassioned performances — thank you for your talent, professionalism, and continuous enthusiasm.
“And to our loyal viewers who loved our characters and followed their journeys, thank you.”The showrunner teased: “We look forward to delivering an end to the series that is both satisfying and does justice to these beloved characters.”
