The upcoming sixth season of CBS' hit comedy Mike & Molly starring Melissa McCarthy and Billy Gardell will be its final season - according to co-star Rondi Reed (who plays Gardell's mother on the sitcom).
In a Facebook post, Reed says: "Before you hear it elsewhere (and some already have) this is the final and 6th season of Mike & Molly on CBS. It is also a shortened season (13 episodes) after the announced full renewal of 22 episodes back in March by the network. We are done taping as of January 27, 2016 and I am not sure exactly when/if the episodes will all be aired. The network has it's reasons, and I will not get into a debate, discussion, or campaign to get them to change their minds. Other venues were explored by WB and Bonanza Productions (Chuck Lorre) after CBS announced their intentions, but did not turn up a future for our show. It is a fact and we have known for a few weeks. I remain extremely grateful to have been a part of this and to have worked with a fabulous bunch of folks over the years. I have learned a lot about many things, including the Business we call Show. Also grateful for all the fans and for the personal support I have received over the (almost) 6 seasons. Stewart Talent has guided me every step of the way on this journey and for that I am also forever grateful."
CBS has not confirmed the series' cancellation as of yet.
News of the truncated season emerged when CBS slotted the upcoming season on Wednesday, January 7 forming a new one hour comedy block with 2 Broke Girls for just seven weeks. After that, Season 6's remaining episodes will be scheduled at a later date.
In its fifth season, Mike & Molly average a 2.0 rating in the Adults 18-49 demographic and 7.4 million total viewers.
The comedy stars Melissa McCarthy, Billy Gardell, Reno Wilson, Swoosie Kurtz, Katy Mixon, Nyambi Nyambi, Louis Mustillo, Rondi Reed, Cleo King and David Anthony Higgins.
A possible explanation for the cancellation could be that the cast's contracts are up at the end of the six season. Emmy winner and Oscar nominee Melissa McCarthy may be ready to move on considering she's still quite the draw at the box office.
