CBS Cancels ‘MacGyver’ After 5 Seasons
No amount of paper clips and chewing gum can save ‘MacGyver‘ from this sticky situation, as CBS announces they have cancelled the reboot series after 5 seasons.
A reimagining of the classic series, ‘MacGyver’ followed 20-something Angus “Mac” MacGyver (Lucas Till), who creates a clandestine organization within the U.S. government where he uses his extraordinary talent for unconventional problem solving and vast scientific knowledge to save lives. Alongside Till, the series stars Tristin Mays, Justin Hires, Meredith Eaton, Levy Tran and Henry Ian Cusick.
“All of us at CBS are extremely grateful for the incredible work and dedication from Lucas and the rest of the cast, as well as Monica, the writers and the entire crew,” commented Kelly Kahl, President, CBS Entertainment in a statement. “The MacGyver team travelled far and wide to repeatedly save the world with little more than bubble gum and a paper clip and made this show distinctly their own. We’re gratified we get to give this dedicated and loyal fan base the opportunity to say goodbye to their favourite characters in the thoughtful manner this series deserves.”
That will mean the upcoming Season 5 finale, which airs April 30 on CBS in the USA, will now serve as a series finale as well. No exact reason was given for the show coming to an end, although its numbers had been in a steady decline over the last few seasons, with the current 5th season down 22% on Season 4. It is also ranking 10th in total audience on CBS out of 14 original dramas.
It also hasn’t been smooth sailing behind the scenes for the show, after CBS broke ties with exec producer Peter M. Lenkov follow accusations of creating a toxic work environment – a claim backed up by star Lucas Till, who said Lenkov’s verbal abuse, bullying, and body-shaming left him feeling suicidal in the first year of production. Monica Macer was brought in to replace him for the 5th, and now final season.
“Since coming on board to MacGyver last year, I have been amazed by the devotion and enthusiasm of this remarkable cast and crew, as well as the loyal fans,” adds Macer. “My gratitude goes out to Lucas, Tristin, Justin, Meredith, Levy and Ian, who put everything they have into our show, specifically for the fans. We can’t wait for them to see our spectacular final episodes and the adventures that still await for Mac and the team at the Phoenix.”
‘MacGyver‘ airs on Sky One in the UK, although they have yet to announce a specific premiere date for the 5th (and now final) Season, it is coming in May 2021. We’ll let you know when a date is confirmed.
