“Mom” is a critically acclaimed comedy with a hopeful message about recovery that’s thriving creatively in its eighth season. So why is it ending now?
“That’s a wonderful question. It was not something we wanted,” executive producer Chuck Lorre says in advance of the CBS sitcom‘s series finale Thursday (9 EDT/PDT).
Lorre says he was surprised and disappointed when he learned in February that “Mom,” which centers on a group of friends who support each other in recovery from addiction, would end this spring, a feeling shared by cast members on social media. He says he was told the series had become too expensive, given the rising costs – including salaries – of a long-running popular comedy, but that he doesn’t know the specific reasons behind a decision that would have been discussed by CBS and Warner Bros. Television, the producing studio.
“It was heartbreaking, because I think everyone involved felt that there were so many more stories to tell, that we had a perfect ensemble and a show that, as much as it’s funny, was meaningful,” he says.
While grounded in humor and featuring the kind of biting personal insults common to many friendships, “Mom” also delved into serious territory, including the challenges and setbacks for those dealing with addiction.
Despite his sadness at the show ending, Lorre appreciates having the chance to work with the ensemble headed by Oscar-winner Allison Janney and featuring Mimi Kennedy, Jaime Pressly, Beth Hall, Kristen Johnston…
