ABC has decided to end “Life on Mars” after a single year — but in an unusual move, the network will keep the show on the air through the end of its full run, reports Variety.
That will give the series a rare opportunity to sign off with a proper finale, wrapping up the series’ core mystery.
Network insiders said they were fans of the show and pleased with its creative chops — but that the ratings ultimately didn’t warrant a second season. The most recent episode of “Life on Mars” averaged just a 2.0 rating/5 share among adults 18-49, as well as 5.5 million viewers.
Five more episodes of “Life on Mars” remain out of the series’ 17-episode order. As previously announced, the show’s Wednesday 10 p.m. slot will go to newcomer “The Unusuals” in April.
“Life on Mars” stars Jason O’Mara, Gretchen Mol, Harvey Keitel, Michael Imperioli and Jonathan Murphy.
