I wasn't going to believe it until I heard some kind of official word from CW and, well, it came...and I am thoroughly disappointed! Good thing I tuned in Monday to see this week's episodes.

Due to costs, the CW decided to cut the show short and end the series. Here is the statement released by CW rep, Melissa Burton:

"The prolonged strike has changed business conditions and our programming strategy for the balance of the 2007/08 season. To better focus its creative and financial resources, The CW will only resume production on shows that are in consideration for renewal next year. As a result, we will not order additional episodes of the long-running comedy, `Girlfriends,' which planned to conclude its 8-year run at the end of this season. This was a very difficult decision for us, and was based solely on the considerable cost to license each episode in an extremely unusual business environment.

The affection, appreciation and respect for the show's accomplishments and the talents of the artists could not be greater. 'Girlfriends' was a landmark comedy that helped anchor important nights for both The CW and UPN, and proved to be one of the most enduring and popular shows in TV history with African-American viewers.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for eight great seasons from creator Mara Brock Akil, stars Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks, Persia White, Jill Marie Jones, Reggie Hayes, Khalil Kain, Keesha Sharp and all the cast, crew and production who have worked on the show. We are in discussions with Mara and the cast to bring closure to the show and its fans with a retrospective special to air this season." [SOURCE]

I think it is pretty shady that the CW dropped its most popular show, after they continuously shifted its time slot, and poured money into horrible shows like "Aliens in America" and "Reaper." They could have saved that money to show the one consistent hit they've had some due respect. I feel horrible for Mara Brock Akil and all the actors.

Send your letters of support to:

President of Entertainment – CW Network
Dawn Ostroff
818-977-2525
Dawn.Ostroff@cwtv.com

Director of Current Programming – CW Network
Traci Blackwell
818-977-2537
Traci.Blackwell@cwtv.com

President of CBS Paramount Network TV
Nancy Tellem
323-575-2380
nancy.tellem@tvc.cbs.com

Labels: Girlfriends, Golden Brooks, Jill Marie Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross