Long-running crime procedural TV series “Castle” will not return for a ninth season at ABC. The season finale next week on May 16 will serve as the series ender.

The cancellation comes weeks after news broke that leading lady Stana Katic nor series regular Tamala Jones would return to “Castle”, if it were renewed for a ninth season. However, Katic's co-star Nathan Fillion, who played the titular Rick Castle, recently signed a new deal to return, should the series come back.

The news comes somewhat of a shock. Even though Katic is leaving the series, “Castle” has long been a staple on ABC's schedule with a rabid fanbase.

Though the ratings have been the lowest this season than ever before, and ratings have declined over the past few seasons, the numbers have stabilised through the current run as interest has seemed to peak this season.

Premiering midseason in 2009, “Castle” was created by Andrew Marlowe. He stepped down as showrunner after six seasons, but remained close to the show. 

Ahead of Season 8, Katic's deal remained unclear leading up to the show's renewal. This year, sources close to the show maintained that the drama still could return, even without Katic. However, the fan backlash since her departure was announced has been overwhelming on social media.

Source: Variety