According to TV Guide, executive producer David Shore is scheduled to meet with FOX and Universal Media executives to decide if this is the last season of House. Shore wants to know well in advance so that he can start moving the story towards a fitting series finale.
There are several factors influencing the decision, not the least of which is star Hugh Laurie’s interest in doing another year. Shore’s contract also runs out at the end of this season. Currently in its eighth season, the medical drama is not cheap to produce and cost cutting measures saw some taking salary cuts. Lisa Edelstein left after last season.
For season eight, Universal Media was looking for the same deal they got at the end of season four. FOX wanted a discount, knowing that the studio makes a lot of cash from new episodes when they’re added to the syndication package. FOX essentially got the deal they wanted.
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Last spring, there was talk about NBC possibly taking on the series if a deal couldn’t be worked out with FOX. A clause in FOX’s contract however prevented Universal from shopping the series to any NBC-Universal network or channel. If FOX passes this time, it’s unknown if House could move to NBC. It would be expensive but the peacock network certainly needs help on Monday nights.
The current season of House is averaging a 3.05 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 7.9 million viewers. That’s down by 15% when compared to last year’s season average but it’s still doing well as FOX’s sixth highest rated scripted series. On NBC, it would be number two, not far below The Office.
Laurie has indicated that he’d like to move on and FOX’s president, Kevin Reilly, noted that this is “pretty likely” House’s final year. A final decision on season nine is expected soon.
What do you think? Should House continue or are you ready for the show to come to an end? Has it gone on too long already?
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