Melissa McCarthy and Billy Gardell’s Sitcom 'Mike & Molly’ Canceled by CBS

It's been reported that the upcoming sixth season of the CBS sitcom Mike & Molly will be its last. The series, which stars Billy Gardell as Mike Biggs and Melissa McCarthy as Molly Flynn, debuted in the fall of 2010 on Monday nights. Its unique premise centered on the relationship of an overweight couple who met at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting.

CBS confirmed last March that the show would be back because of a devoted fan base and a 20% increase in viewership among viewers between the ages of 25-54.  However, the delay in its latest season sparked speculation as to its future.

Eventually the news was confirmed to the public via a Facebook post by actress Rondi Reed:

"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 27th 2016 and I am not sure exactly when/if the episodes will all be aired. The network has its 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." 

Reed portrayed Peggy, the mother of Gardell's character.

In a recent interview with CBS58, Gardell himself said, "He thinks it might be the end." 

In its already completed five seasons and 116 episodes, the show has garnered two Primetime Emmy Awards, including one to McCarthy for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2011. The 45-year old actress would also be nominated in 2012.

The series has also won a BMI & TV Award, an ASCAP Film and Television Music Award and a Young Artist Award.

Considering the show's critical and commercial success, it's likely the cancellation is related to the rise of McCarthy's film career which started with an Academy Award nomination in 2012 for her work in Bridesmaids with Kristen Wiig. The 45-year old actress also had roles in The Heat  with Sandra Bullock, Tammy  with Susan Sarandon and St. Vincent  with Bill Murray. She is also set to star in the upcoming remake of Ghostbusters with former co-stars as Wiig and Murray.

Ironically the recently slimmed down actress may be back on television via a Netflix reboot of Gilmore Girls, the show which gave the Spy star her first major acting role as Sookie St. James.

Of course, after this final season of Mike & Molly, McCarthy and the rest of the cast will live on in television through the wonderful world of syndication.