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FOX has renewed its Lethal Weapon TV show for a third season but, as previously reported, Clayne Crawford won’t be a part of it. Seann William Scott will replace him as the show’s co-lead.
A comedic FOX buddy cop drama, season two of Lethal Weapon stars Damon Wayans, Clayne Crawford, Keesha Sharp, Kevin Rahm, Jordana Brewster, Johnathan Fernandez, Dante Brown, Chandler Kinney, and Michelle Mitchenor. The story centers on two very different cops working together on the streets of Los Angeles. While family man Roger Murtaugh (Wayans) has everything to live for, there doesn’t seem to be anything Martin Riggs (Crawford) won’t sacrifice to avenge the loss of his own family.
Lethal Weapon: A Look at the Ratings
The second season of Lethal Weapon is averaging a 0.99 rating in the 18-49 viewer demographic and 4.11 million viewers. Compared to season one, that’s down by 37% and 37%, respectively. It generally ranks in the middle of scripted FOX TV shows.
What’s to Come
The television adaptation of the feature film franchise has drawn a decent audience for FOX and reportedly does well internationally. So, the renewal makes sense but it remains to be seen if viewers will stick with the show through this big cast change.
Cast members’ contracts are renewed on an annual basis and Warner Bros. Television decided not to renew Crawford’s. Reportedly, the decision was not taken lightly because of the possible financial ramifications. However, the studio is said to have a zero tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior.
SPOILER ALERT The second season finale set up Crawford’s exit from the series with a cliffhanger ending. His character, Riggs, had been set to return to Texas when he was surprisingly shot in the chest. It’s unclear if the character will survive offscreen but it doesn’t seem likely.
Word is that Scott will play a new character on the series who will replace Riggs as Murtaugh’s partner. Several actors were reportedly considered for the role and the deal was sealed over the weekend when Scott and Wayans had a face-to-face meeting.
“Seann is a fantastic addition to this already amazing cast,” said Fox Entertainment president Michael Thorn. “Lethal Weapon is packed with action, drama and pure fun and we can’t wait to see Damon and Seann together on screen. Matt Miller, his incredible team and everyone at Warner Bros. have been tremendous partners, and we’re thrilled to bring this show back for another season.”
What do you think? Did you think FOX would cancel or renew Lethal Weapon for season three? Do you plan to tune in for a third season without Crawford as part of the team?
I don’t think the show will be as good without Clayne Crawford. I think the ratings will drop even more. Moving to Tuesday Night was a bad move since it pitted it against NCIS. Move it back to Wenesday nights & keep Clayne Crawford!!
Tracy & Jeff
Well, it’s sad that Crawford was replaced. We’ve always been Wayan’s fans, but thinking there maybe some ego issues here. In this series, Crawford “is the story “. We will give the show one viewing opportunity, but we don’t believe it will work. This kind of thing historically has not worked well.
Better yet, why doesn’t everyone be professional and check your egos at the door?
I honestly feel that that role was made for Clayne Crawford. He seemed to draw you into the show. The role really fit him he had the look for that part. As the lady said everyone makes mistakes, whatever happened to second chances. So sad to see him go.
I agree. If the writers have Riggs survive this point blank shooting and have him move to Texas it could leave things open for the talented writers to bring him back to the show. I’m holding out hope that the rift between adults can be repaired. Don’t know the details or who is at fault but I too watched the show because of the character that Crawford played.
I will no longer watch Lethal Weapon. Clayne Crawford made this show what it was. He is great and fits the part well. I always looked forward to Tuesday nights to watch this show. NO LONGER! You really need to work things out for Crawford. Everyone has problems and may do some wrong things. I think the other actors should look a little closer to real life issues themselves.
Without Crawford – nope.
Initially, I said that I wouldn’t watch without the Clayne Crawford, However, it appears that his behavior wasn’t the best. He messed up a good opportunity. Why should the rest of the cast suffer because of his ego? Bring it on Season 3 with Seann William Scott
Without Crawford the show will not survive. He made the show and I will not watch series three. Big mistake letting him go!!
Without Crawford… I won’t be watching… good luck
Without Crawford this show is not going to be on my watch list. I will watch the first episode of the 3rd season but only to see if Riggs lives or died.
After that, i’m done watching it.
Will not be watching without Crawford (Riggs). The dynamics just won’t work. Love the interaction of Crawford and Wayans. Will be very sad as is my favorite show. Not a good decision.
I am shocked at the ending and now I am disappointed Crawford will not be returning. The interaction between Crawford and Wayans was phenomenal and I am sorry it will not continue. I like the show and will view every week the new episodes of season three. Oh, why was his contract not renewed? I can’t find a reason for his dismissal.
Without Clayne Crawford the show will be pointless. What a shame he will not be on the show. I loved this show. You might as well cancel it. Riggs and Murtaugh together make the show and Clayne is an amazing actor! I will not be watching it
Without Clayne Crawford, I wont be watching the show
Oh no I love the interaction between Riggs and Murtaugh!! I just don’t thing I can watch this show any longer. If Crawford wanted more $$$$ YOU should of made it happen!!! Lost a viewer. Sorry to say the other actor that you selected looks like you are watching paint dry. No appeal at all……………
I will miss Clayne. He made the show. Not watching new season. I’m done.