Fringe, the Fox cult hit that has held on despite low ratings, has been renewed for a fifth and final season.
Despite an average of 4 million viewers and a 1.6 adult demo rating, the series will have 13 more episodes to close out its story line. Recent sci-fi series have not done well on Fox, with the network declining to renew the costly Terra Nova and with freshman series Alcatraz expected to be passed over, as well. Producer and director J.J. Abrams is one of the key names behind both Fringe and Alcatraz.
The series concerns a special unit of the FBI that investigates strange occurrences and parallel universes. It has been a fan favorite since its debut, but has never attracted stellar ratings. Nonetheless, it hung on repeatedly in the face of cancellation, meaning that its fans are lucky enough to get closure on the story.
“Fringe is a remarkably creative series that has set the bar as one of television’s most imaginative dramas,” said Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly. “Bringing it back for a final 13 allows us to provide the climactic conclusion that its passionate and loyal fans deserve. The amazing work the producers, writers and the incredibly talented cast and crew have delivered the last four seasons has literally been out of this world. Although the end is bittersweet, it’s going to be a very exciting final chapter.”
Source: Entertainment Weekly