Disney used to be the happiest place on earth, now it’s Shondaland. The zeitgeisty company had all 3 of their Thursday night shows (Scandal, How to Get Away With Murder, and Grey’s Anatomy) renewed on ABC, along with 12 other programs given early renewals by new network president Channing Dungey. It’s a new move for the network, according to Deadline, as previous leader Paul Lee held off on renewals as long as possible, often until a day or two before upfront week.
The entire Wednesday night comedy lineup – The Goldbergs, Modern Family, Black-ish, and The Middle – was also renewed along with dramas Quantico, Once Upon a Time, and Agent’s of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Also no surprises on the reality front, with popular shows Shark Tank, America’s Funniest Home Videos, Dancing with the Stars, and The Bachelor renewed.
Castle fans might be concerned by reports that show is on the bubble but in reality a renewal is largely contingent upon a contract renewal with star Nathan Fillion. His contract talks were suspended pending the leadership change, so a renewal should be close at hand for season 9.
Blood & Oil and Wicked City were already canceled and ABC has tapped Agent Carter star Hayley Atwell for another starring role in Conviction, which doesn’t bode well for the Marvel drama. That show is the third lowest rated in ABC’s primetime lineup. The jury is still out on Nashville and American Crime, which remain on the bubble for now.
Shondaland has a fourth show coming to ABC on March 24th. Crime series The Catch starring Mireille Enos and Peter Krause will replace HTGAWM on the schedule after it wraps for the season.