Hours after axing another DC Comics-based series with Lucifer, a new report suggests the Batman prequel series, Gotham, is currently on the bubble — and its future hinges on one other Fox series’ fate, specifically.
With upfronts on the horizon, television networks have been steadily announcing renewals and cancellations over the past few days. Thus far, the network with the most surprising axes has been Fox as the network has not only canceled nearly all of its comedies — including Brooklyn Nine-Nine — but plenty of its dramas, as well. And now, one more series looks to be heading out as The Hollywood Reporter suggests Gotham may be cancelled if Warner Bros. Television is unable to secure a new lead for Lethal Weapon by Monday.
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It’s an unusual predicament for two shows to be in, and one that is sure to worry those hopeful to see Gotham continue on the network for at least another season. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean the series is sure to be cancelled — at least, not yet. With Fox having been forced to fire Lethal Weapon star Clayne Crawford following his on-set antics, producers are now in a bit of a bind. Prior to Crawford’s firing, the show seemed to be a lock for renewal as it is a steady performer for the network, however, in the days since, Warner Bros. TV has hit a wall while attempting to recast the lead role. It’s said that multiple actors were offered the role, however, they all passed, leaving Fox and Warner Bros. TV just a few days to sign a new actor ahead of upfronts. Should the network and producers prove successful, Gotham‘s fate appears to be all but sealed with a cancellation notice sure to follow.
However, with just a few days to secure a new actor, producers are said to be “scrambling” as they continue to meet with potential replacements for Crawford. After all, the show will need a new actor to help carry the series heading into a potential third season. But if producers are unable to sign a new actor before Monday? Lethal Weapon, instead, will find itself on the chopping block, while Gotham will reportedly return for a fifth season. It’s an unfortunate circumstance, and one that is sure to frustrate plenty, but those that have been awaiting news on Gotham can at least rest easy knowing a decision will be made in the coming days.
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Airing Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Fox, Gotham stars Ben McKenzie as James Gordon, Donal Logue as Harvey Bullock, David Mazouz as Bruce Wayne, Robin Lord Taylor as Penguin, Cameron Bicondova as Selina Kyle, Erin Richards as Barbara Kean and Sean Pertwee as Alfred Pennyworth.