The future of '9-1-1: Lone Star' is up in the air as production begins on the fifth season but cast members have reportedly been under the assumption that the show would end with this season.
- Jun 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Production is currently underway on the 12-episode fifth season of "9-1-1: Lone Star", but the series' future is uncertain. Cast members have reportedly been under the assumption that the show would end with season 5 since late last year, following unsuccessful contract renegotiation attempts.
Reps for the actors first approached the studio two years ago about securing raises, but the request was denied and later turned down again when the actors attempted a second renegotiation.
As a result, Sierra McClain, who played 9-1-1 operator Grace Ryder, has left the show. Her departure comes amid rumors that the cast's contracts will not be extended beyond the current season, which ends production on July 19.
The studio and original cast member Rob Lowe have a different relationship, as he is an executive producer on the series and has a first-look pact with the network. If FOX attempts to continue the show after the cast's options expire, Lowe has expressed willingness to return.
The show's economics have also played a role in its uncertain future. As a broadcast series in season 5, "9-1-1: Lone Star" is deficit financed by the studio, with FOX paying a license fee. The high production costs and lack of ownership have led to speculation that the show may not continue beyond Season 5, even if Fox renews it.
The studio has complicated dealings with FOX, making it more difficult to reach agreements on drama series. "Lone Star" is the only remaining 20th TV drama on FOX, following the departure of "9-1-1" to ABC and the cancellation of "The Resident".
Despite the challenges, FOX had been hoping to make a renewal decision after seeing how season 5 performs this fall. However, the lack of options extensions for the cast suggests that the series' fate will be determined before that.
The cast has not been officially released, and if they book new regular roles, they will have to ask for a release from "Lone Star" to take them.
Fans of the show will have to wait and see if "9-1-1: Lone Star" will return for a sixth season or if season 5 will mark the end of the series.
