“Downward Dog” is being put to sleep.
ABC has canceled the freshman comedy that launched in May, a network representative confirmed to TheWrap. Series co-creator Samm Hodges, who voiced the eponymous pooch, announced the news on Twitter on Friday with a message from himself and co-creator Michael Killen.
“Got the very surprising news that ABC is not moving forward with ‘Downward Dog,’” the statement reads. “They loved it creatively and really wanted to make more, but couldn’t find a financial path to do so.”
Hodges and Killen wrote that they “are deeply personally thankful to [ABC] for putting this first season on the air and allowing us to make something really unique and uncompromising. Obviously, this is a hard time, but we’re not done.”
The midseason comedy centered on philosophical dog Martin and his relationship with his loving but distracted owner, Nan (Allison Tolman). The cast included Lucas Neff (Jason), Barry Rothbart (Kevin), Kirby Howell-Baptiste (Jenn) and Maria Bamford (voice of cat Pepper).
According to the statement, the series’ final two episodes will air Tuesday, June 27.
“Watch and show the world how much you care!” the message continues. “Thanks for your love and support.”
Neff also lamented the cancellation on Twitter: “It’s difficult to make something you really love and then have it killed over a few dollars. But I’m grateful for the ride.”
The tweets are below.
https://twitter.com/sammhodges/status/878369804473647104
https://twitter.com/RealLucasNeff/status/878375155973664768