NBC Cancels 'Free Agents'

NBC

"Free Agents"

NBC has canceled freshman comedy Free Agents.

The workplace comedy starring Hank Azaria and Kathryn Hahn failed to gain traction in its Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. slot against competition that included Fox’s X Factor and CBS’ Survivor.

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Repeats of the recently picked up Whitney will air in its place beginning next week. Last night's episode will be the series' final airing. The news comes after the half-hour sitcom drew anemic numbers in its most recent outing, averaging 3.3 million viewers and a 1.0 rating among adults 18-49.

"Thanks to NBC for giving us a shot, thanks to all who watched Free Agents, and thanks to all who worked on the show -- we had so much fun!!" Azaria tweeted Thursday.

In its Sept. 14 preview following Up All Night at 10:30 p.m., the Universal Television series premiered to 6.3 million and a 2.1 rating.

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Airing two hours earlier the following week in its regular time period – where it faced competition from the series premiere of Fox’s Simon Cowell singing competition The X Factor and CBS’ Survivor -- the series tumbled 38 percent in the demo, attracting 3.9 million total viewers.

In an effort to drum up business for the series, Azaria took to his Twitter page and encouraged fans to tune in.

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"Hey kids, please watch Free Agents this Wednesday at 8:30. I fear it may be your last chance!!" he tweeted Monday.

He continued the "do or die" campaign throughout the week, encouraging fans "to be part of TV history by saving this funny smart show," and call NBC if they liked what they saw. 

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NBC also canceled freshman drama The Playboy Club, while the network under new entertainment topper Robert Greenblatt renewed rookie comedies Up All Night and Whitney.

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