Mad Men Won't Return This Year

One of the only things worth watching on television these days is Mad Men, which delivers a detailed portrayal of a mid-century New York City, along with office politics and domestic drama. Plus lots of sex, smoking and dry martinis. Rumors surrounding the show's return have been making their way to the press in recent weeks, with word that the 5th season has been stalled, and the show possibly canceled, due to some unresolved negotiations.

According to TIME, the hold up is part advertising (ironic!)—allegedly the network wants to cut two minutes each episode for commercials, and work in more product integration. And to save some more cash, AMC wants to cut a couple of regular cast members (can the old Henny Youngman one-liner apply here? Perhaps Don Draper can tell the big wigs: "Take my (ex)wife—please.").

At any rate, AMC now confirms that the earliest we'll be seeing a new episode is 2012. So rumors of the series being canceled were likely exaggerated—it's not like AMC is going to put their most lucrative show into an early grave, nor is creator Matt Weiner going to walk away from a deal that would make him the highest-paid showrunner on basic cable. Especially when everyone involved only has through season 6, the final season, to cash in.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Jen Carlson in Arts & Entertainment on March 29, 2011 12:31 PM

Comments [rss]

Guest

Just when I wanted more of Jessica Pare. Oh well, back to Hot Tub Time Machine.

robingee

Ditch Betty!

wobblesmith

i'll invent a season to hold everyone over:

- a middle aged guy is banging someone younger and hotter than he is!
- an upwardly mobile woman reveals how trapped she is by her upward mobility!
- a huge business deal/addition or loss of a new client threatens to shake up the firm!
- the social and political climate of the 60s is reflected upon with zero nuance by white people as they imbibe alcohol!
- an important mentor or friend dies or disappears, causing a distressed character to lash out!
- the siren call of a new sexual partner/client/industry leads a main character to dark places!

goodbyewren

Don Draper meets the love of his life and surprises everyone by announcing he is leaving to be with her and that he is being replaced by Will Ferrell.

Newhce

and let's not forget...

-Sally Draper continues her long journey to becoming a stripper with daddy issues.

robingee

It's funny because the show is soooo unoriginal! (not it's not)

Smith Corona

Who on this show has ever consumed a dry martini? The closest thing to that is Roger's fondness for gibsons.

Perhaps you should swap out dry martinis with the above, or Canadian Club or Don's mixed drink of choice, an old fashioned.