Though the cable channel has yet to issue an official press release, it was confirmed at the TCA press tour that AMC’s Mad Men will return for a fifth season. AMC president Joel Stillerman said, “Mad Men is definitely coming back for season five, but don’t ask me when, because we’re not sure yet.” Like the previous four seasons, it will be made up of 13 installments. The last few seasons have kicked off mid-Summer but this one could certainly be delayed.
Mad Men’s producer, Lionsgate Television, and series creator Matthew Weiner have yet to make a new deal to continue the series. Last time, negotiations with Weiner dragged on for quite awhile and closed days after Mad Men was named best drama series for the third year in a row at The Golden Globes.
Another potential sticking point is that options on the cast were reportedly going to expire at the end of 2010. Word was that Lionsgate intended to exercise the options before they ran out but there hasn’t been confirmation of that or if everybody agreed to return.
So, AMC is committed to Mad Men returning for season five. It remains to be seen if Weiner and everyone in the cast will be along for the ride.
Image courtesy AMC.
The problem is that the longer a show is on, the more expensive it becomes. Production costs increase along with salaries. I hope the show continues, but there may only be so much a channel like AMC is prepared to pay.
It’s devastating and disappointing that you can’t get your act together!! Best Show on T.V.
Do it for all your fans!! It’s too long to wait as it is!! VERY UPSETTING!!!!
I certainly hope they are back and I would also like an alert when it starts again.
How can I get an alert when the next season 5 starts? I cancelled AMC until Mad men comes back.