Two and a Half Men Shutdown = More Rules of Engagement, Possibly Mike & Molly

Charlie Sheen’s well-publicized problems are bad news for the cast and crew of Two and a Half Men. Production on the hit sitcom’s been shut down and as a result, they may not be delivering as many episodes this season. Depending on who you believe, that could cost the network and studio millions in revenue. TMZ reports that Sheen may be out of commission for as long as three months.

The shutdown may end up being positive for the folks who work backstage on CBS’ other sitcoms. According to THR, the network has ordered two additional episodes of Rules of Engagement and is working on a deal for two more of freshman Mike & Molly. CBS hasn’t officially announced the orders and the studio hasn’t confirmed them either.

According to EW, this probably won’t mean additional installments for How I Met Your Mother. With lots of cuts and flashbacks, episodes of Mother take awhile to produce and the series is in the midst of a season arc. Executive producer Craig Thomas said that they haven’t been asked about making more episodes thus far. He noted, “We’re set to do 24 this year, which is the same as we did last year and it’s a big season, and that’s a lot to do.” Thomas added that they wouldn’t say “no” to making additional installments and would probably make it work.

What do you think? Are you glad to hear there will be more Rules of Engagement and possibly Mike & Molly?