Breaking News: HBO Cancels LOOKING Led by Jonathan Groff; Movie Next!

BroadwayWorld.com has learned this morning that HBO's LOOKING has, sadly, been cancelled. For the past few days, there have been endless articles after Sunday night's season finale of the show, as to whether or not HBO would pick up the show for a third season. The show's amazingly talented cast, led by Broadway's Jonathan Groff (currently in HAMILTON at the Public Theater) has been praised for its frank storytelling. The show has been referred to as a a 21st century version of Armistead Maupin's TALES OF THE CITY.

Late last week, there was speculation as HBO renewed existing shows but held back their decision on LOOKING. Our sources inside HBO tell us that the decision was made yesterday and will certainly leave fans disappointed. But, there's good news in a statement just issued by the network that promises a conclusion to the story. HBO notes "After two years of following Patrick and his tight-knit group of friends as they explored San Francisco in search of love and lasting relationships, HBO will present the final chapter of their journey as a special. We look forward to sharing this adventure with the shows loyal fans."

Fans and detractors have been equally passionate about the show, but no one is on the fence about the talented cast. The reason for the sadness is that the entire cast, portraying gay characters and their lifestyles were not used as jokes or as secondary characters, which we see on many sitcoms and dramas. It is sad that these characters will not be able to grow, especially some of the cast additions this year who broke out so loudly.

HBO has been a leader in serving the theatrical community and upcoming is Audra McDonald's Tony-winning performance as Billie Holiday in LADY DAY AT EMERSON'S BAR & GRILL, which was filmed in New Orleans and is awaiting an air date. Also coming is a new upcoming documentary LARRY KRAMER IN LOVE & ANGER. HBO will air the documentary in June, just at Mr. Kramer reaches his 80th birthday. The past year and a half have been celebratory for both Mr. Kramer and HBO as their work on The Normal Heart was recognized by both Emmy wins and Golden Globe nominations, and this film premiered at Sundance.

Created by Michael Lannan and executive produced by Andrew Haigh and Sarah Condon, the show revolves around three friends in San Francisco who explore the varied options available to a new generation of gay men. Jonathan Groff, Frankie J. Alvarez and Murray Bartlett star.