It’s the end of a golden era. After 10 years on the air, the throwback 80’s sitcom The Goldbergs is coming to an end, with the finale episode airing sometime in May.
The show had a great run but ultimately after a decade on air, ABC is probably ready to move on. It’s especially surprising it continued after star Jeff Garlin was booted following some unsavory allegations against him. The show follows the misadventures of a suburban family as they make their way through the Reagan era.
Deadline is reporting that ABC signed new contracts for stars Wendi McLendon-Covey, Sean Giambrone, Troy Gentile, and Hayley Orrantia with the sole purpose of giving the show a real ending after Garlin was pushed out.
The show’s done well for the network over the years. It started airing on Tuesdays at 9 pm and did well enough to move to Wednesdays and anchor that night’s programming. It’s actually the longest-running live-action show on any network, which is impressive considering it aired and even thrived during the proliferation of streaming services.
The ing of George Segal, who played “Pops” on the show, and Garlin’s exit in the same year spelled trouble for the show and probably contributed to the decision. The only ABC show that’s been renewed for the season so far is the smash hit Abbott Elementary.
This pilot season is a tough one for networks, who’ve only green-lit a few new comedy shows while new show orders continue to drop, according to Variety. McLendon-Covey called being part of the show an “honor,” and she said she was excited about not having to wear shoulder pads anymore.
“I’m really proud of what we accomplished with the show, and I’m so lucky to have had such a rewarding experience. I will miss my TV family and every last crew member. Thanks to our brilliant writers for giving us thoughtful story arcs year after year, and for being so collaborative. Thanks to the best EPs in the business. And thanks to all our fans (the Goldnerds) for being so sweet and ive. My heart is full…But I definitely hope I never see another pair of shoulder pads for the rest of my life.”
Craig Erwich, the president of ABC Entertainment (and Hulu and Disney Branded Originals for TV), said the ten years spent with the Goldbergs made him extremely proud.
“This is an incredible team and we’re so thankful for the joy and entertainment they brought to so many over this time. We look forward to celebrating their final chapter along with the fans in the weeks ahead.”
Published: Feb 23, 2023 07:16 pm