• by January 28, 2002

CBS has shut down production of "The Ellen Show," making the struggling Ellen DeGeneres comedy the latest series to fall victim to network belt-tightening.

A total of 18 episodes had been taped when the lights were turned off Friday; a few months ago, the network had announced a full-season order of 22 episodes.

"The Ellen Show" failed to catch fire with audiences in its regular Friday slot. A handful of Monday airings fared better, but didn't wow.

The show had already been pulled through the February sweeps. Five remaining original episodes are slated to air in March and April, and CBS insiders said "Ellen" remains a contender to make the net's fall 2002 sked, which will be announced in May.

In recent weeks, several shows previously greenlit for 22 episodes have seen their orders reduced as networks look to save money on underperformers.

'Fox, for example, cut back on "Undeclared" and "Titus." ABC shaved off several episodes of "Once and Again," while the WB shut down "Nikki" earlier than planned.

- (Variety)