It looks like HBO is back to its old ways of canceling great shows after only two seasons, as they just gave Looking the boot. The show will get a wrap-up special at some undisclosed point in time, which is—at the very least—more than they did for Rome, Carnivàle, Deadwood, and many other shows cut down in their prime.
According to Entertainment Weekly (link below), the network did not cite any particular reason for canceling the show, opting instead to release a cryptic statement that it was pulling the plug.
HBO gave this statement: “After two years of following Patrick and his tight-knit group of friends as they explored San Francisco in search of love and lasting relationships, HBO will present the final chapter of their journey as a special. We look forward to sharing this adventure with the shows loyal fans.”
The move marks a rare early-run cancelation by HBO, which often lets modestly performing titles continue for years. Looking ran for two seasons and 18 episodes, with its second-season finale airing Sunday night. No word yet from HBO when the special will air, or whether it will be longer than the show’s usual 30-minute running time.
Part of me hopes that this is just a gaffe and they really meant to cancel Girls.