‘Law & Order’ Officially Canceled

After a day of will-it-or-won’t-it, NBC has confirmed that the flagship “Law & Order,” which has aired for twenty seasons, will not be renewed, thus ensuring that it won’t break the record it shares with “Gunsmoke” for longevity for a drama series. (Perhaps now “The Simpsons” can be laid to rest, as well.)

A source close to the talks said discussions between the network and executive producer Dick Wolf ran late into Thursday, with NBC ultimately deciding to end the flagship “L&O” due to the cost of ordering another season of the ratings-challenged veteran drama and the strength of the network’s new shows.

Wolf issued this statement: “Never complain. Never explain.” [THR]

Well said, Mr. Wolf. Terse but douchey. Anyway, it’s not like this is some tragic ending. It’s a procedural that has rotated cast members in and out through the years, and its well-known and recognizable format will live on in the “L&O: SVU,” “L&O: CI”, and all-new “L&O: Los Angeles” next fall.

In other industry news, NBC also canceled “Mercy,” re-canceled “Trauma,” and gave “Chuck” a 13-episode renewal (the same deal it got last year, where NBC has the option to extend it for a full season). When asked for comment, NBC executives said, “How old are you? I’m fifty! I’ve got a pet rabbit. Wanna see him? I’m fifty!”

UPDATE: “Heroes” has also been canceled. Good riddance. Pack your stuff and get out.