'Lost,' 'Ugly Betty' renewed by ABC
Associated Press
NEW YORK » Despite a slump in ratings, "Lost" is one of 14 programs that ABC is renewing for next fall's season.
Getting a jump in planning for next season, ABC announced yesterday that it had ordered new episodes for the programs, which include three series that debuted this season: the hit "Ugly Betty," the drama "Brothers & Sisters" and Anne Heche's Alaska sojourn "Men in Trees."
Most of the other returnees are no surprises. "Grey's Anatomy," "Desperate Housewives" and "Boston Legal" will all be back. ABC committed to several of its successful reality shows, including "The Bachelor," "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," "Dancing With the Stars," "America's Funniest Home Videos," "Supernanny" and "Wife Swap."
The late-night "Jimmy Kimmel Live" will also be back, said ABC Entertainment President Stephen McPherson.
None of the network's comedies, including "According to Jim" or "George Lopez," received a commitment for next fall. The broadcast networks all announce their fall schedule in May.
ABC is averaging just less than 10 million prime-time viewers, down from 11.4 million a year ago. The network argues that some erosion was expected with the departure of "Monday Night Football," but it has also been hurt by the unexpected decline of "Lost."