ABC Eyes End Date for 'Lost'

from TV Week

In a highly unusual move for a broadcast series, ABC and the producers of "Lost" are in discussions to determine an end date for the show. The date will set a limit to the number of "Lost" seasons to come and will be announced to fans. The show's producers, speaking at ABC's Television Critics Association press tour session, said having a conclusion date will bolster fan confidence in the series' narrative. A timeline for making the decision was not announced.

Thought the series ratings have dipped this fall, the show remains one of ABC's top-rated programs. During the first season, Executive Producer Damon Lindelof said the show could run nine seasons if necessary, noting the island has plenty of mysteries. Recently, fans and critics have grown frustrated, however, with the show's continually expanding mythology that keeps piling on new mysteries and characters.

After the panel, Mr. Lindelof suggested the series might cap at 100 episodes, which would only result in two more seasons.