With the strikes on, the networks are turning to acquired programming to fill in their schedules. Unfortunately, the downside of that is ratings so low even some of the networks balk.
The CW has pulled two travelogue series from its Tuesday primetime slots – “Down To Earth with Zac Efron” and “Fantastic Friends” – after just two episodes. The remaining episodes of both shows will be available on the CW app and cwtv.com.
“Down to Earth with Zac Efron” follows the actor and superfoods expert Darin Olien as they travel the world in search of the secrets to good health and long life.
“Fantastic Friends” is a part adventure-travel series and magic-infused challenge show hosted by twins James and Oliver Phelps, who played the Weasley twins in the “Harry Potter” films.
Both shows premiered on July 18th. The former saw a 24% drop in viewers between its first two episodes, whilst ‘Friends’ was barely seen to begin with as only 161,000 turned into the first episode.
The CW will air reruns of “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” and “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” in their place.
The removals are the second and third acquired series The CW opted to pull from their line-up following Australian surfing drama “Barons,” which was yanked after four episodes in June.
That’s not the only bad news on the TV front today. the Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes-led musical romantic comedy series “Up Here” has been cancelled after just one season at Hulu which debuted back on March 24th.
The series boasted some major musical talent behind the scenes and was set in New York City in the waning days of 1999.
It follows the extraordinary story of one ordinary couple as they fall in love – and discover that the greatest obstacle to finding happiness together might be themselves.
Source: TV Line
