Kahl and Sherman did dive into the programming decisions made leading into Wednesday’s scheduled upfront presentation to advertisers — including the decision to cancel comedy “Kevin Can Wait” starring Kevin James. The show had been the subject of a massive creative retooling heading into the second season, with series regular Erinn Hayes departing and Leah Remini, James’ former “Kevin Can Wait” co-star, joining the show.
“Numbers,” Kahl said when asked why the show had been canceled. “It was a strong show for us. The numbers were headed in the wrong direction as the year went on. And looking forward, we didn’t think it was strong enough to anchor a night for us.”
Sherman added, “Creatively the show made a choice at the beginning of last year. We all agreed to go along with it. And the audience didn’t seem to respond to it.”
Sherman was also asked whether the network was considering picking up the “Mad About You” revival being shopped by Sony Pictures Television.”It has been pitched and it’s still being discussed,” Sherman said.
The future of “The Big Bang Theory” was also addressed. The Chuck Lorre-produced comedy’s core cast members have one season remaining on their current contracts, but Kahl said that the door is open for additional seasons.
“We are hopeful that there may be more,” Kahl said.
Sherman added, “As long as Chuck and those guys continue to think there are stories to tell, we’ll take it for as long as they want.” Kahl continued, “We would certainly hope to get a few more years out of it. It’s not slowing down. It’s in peak form right now. Zero viewer loss from a year ago. And it might actually be up when you add in delayed viewing.”
Article Appeared @http://variety.com/2018/tv/news/cbs-fall-diversity-1202812203/