AceShowbiz -

"Mike & Molly" is left by its creator and showrunner Mark Roberts. Warner Bros. TV has announced that Roberts "will be stepping down from his showrunner and executive producer roles after three successful seasons to focus on other projects."

The studio, which produces the CBS sitcom, has found a replacement for Roberts. "Al Higgins, currently co-executive producer of 'Mike & Molly', has been named executive producer and will serve as day-to-day showrunner of the comedy for its upcoming fourth season," it states.

Warner Bros. TV doesn't explain further the reason of the shift, but Deadline says that the show's cast and crew were not happy with Roberts. Higgins, meanwhile, will serve as executive producer alongside Chuck Lorre.

"Mike & Molly" starring Melissa McCarthy and Billy Gardell has received a full 22-episode new season order from CBS. The fourth season is slated to air in midseason, giving a time to the show to adjust to the transition.