WGN America Cancels Drama ‘Manhattan’

WGN America has canceled its drama Manhattan, which represented a big swing from the net to create original programming designed to expand the cable network’s viewer base.

Matt Cherniss, president and general manager, WGN America and Tribune Studios, called it a “very difficult decision.”

“We are proud of this critically acclaimed series, an extraordinary original drama, and are deeply disappointed that such a wonderful show could not find a larger audience,” he said. “We thank the immensely talented Sam Shaw and Thomas Schlamme, along with the exceptional cast and crew and our great partners at Lionsgate and Skydance, for crafting a masterful series.  We are equally grateful to the dedicated fans for their support over the last two seasons."

Created by Shaw, the series told the story of the birth of the nuclear bomb.

Lionsgate and Skydance were partners in the production.

Michael Malone

Michael Malone, senior content producer at B+C/Multichannel News, covers network programming, including entertainment, news and sports on broadcast, cable and streaming; and local broadcast television. He hosts the podcasts Busted Pilot, about what’s new in television, and Series Business, a chat with the creator of a new program, and writes the column “The Watchman.” He joined B+C in 2005. His journalism has also appeared in The New York Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Playboy and New York magazine.