Fans of The Montel Williams Show will have to look elsewhere for surprise paternity tests after this season, as CBS Television Distribution announced the cancellation of the talk show after 17 seasons:
After 17 years on the air, “The Montel Williams Show” is preparing for its grand finale. Barring a reversal by distributor CBS Television Distribution, “Montel” will depart the airwaves following this season.
CBS TV Distribution will offer 260 episodes of the best of “Montel” to stations for fall 2008. […]
The series is averaging a 1.5 national Nielsen rating this season, down 12% from the same period in the 2006-07 television season. At the top of its game, “The Montel Williams Show” peaked with a 4.4 score during the 1996-97 season.
Montel Williams, the person, is said to be focused on continuing his activism for MS research and becoming a fulltime actor.
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CBS Television Distribution has renewed talk show Rachael Ray through 2009-2010.
The program is this season’s highest-rated new syndicated show:
“It’s clear that Rachael’s devoted fans are happy to welcome her into their living rooms every day, and the positive response from our affiliate stations has been tremendous,” Roger King, chief executive officer of CBS Television Distribution, said in a news release.
Rachael Ray premiered in September with the highest-rated talk show debut since Dr. Phil in 2002.
The Megan Mullally Show has been cancelled by NBC Universal Television Distribution after only 5 months, after receiving low ratings in syndication.
“I am extremely proud of the show we created and am thankful for the passion and tireless efforts of (executive producer) Corin Nelson and the entire staff,” Mullally said in a statement Wednesday issued by NBC Universal.
Mullally, who played the outrageous and spoiled socialite Karen on “Will & Grace,” was lauded by NBC Universal as “one of the most talented people in our business,” and the company thanked her for her “tireless commitment.”
Her talk show only managed to attract 1 million daily viewers.
Mullally became interested in hosting her own show after filling in for David Letterman on The Late Show in 2003.
The Martha Stewart Show has been renewed for a third season in syndication on networks broadcasting to 80% of the country.
NBC Universal Domestic Television Distribution renewed the crafty “how-to” show on NBC-owned stations as well:
“Local broadcast stations are enjoying another strong season of ‘The Martha Stewart Show’ and are excited about continuing to offer their viewers and advertisers one of the biggest and most valuable brands in daytime television,” said [Barry] Wallach. “We look forward to continuing this winning relationship for years to come.”
The other 20% of the country will just have to make up their own jack-o-lantern patterns and baked apple fritters recipes.