Sexy sitcom couldn't arouse the ratings

The American version of Coupling has been axed.

NBC network chiefs have pulled the plug on the BBC2 import, shutting down production on Friday.

And showbiz journal Variety reports that no further episodes will be ordered.

The writing has been on the wall for the show, an almost word-for-word remake of the British hit, since last month - when two episodes were unceremoniously dumped from the schedules.

Although it received plenty of advance publicity, mainly for a script that was raunchy by mainstream network standards, viewing figures, and reviews, were disappointing.

NBC had hoped it would be a suitable replacement for the top-rated Friends, but it must now look elsewhere for its next must-see comedy.

However, writer Stephen Moffat has written a fourth series for the British market, which will reunite the stars for filming in the new year. It is set to air on BBC2 next summer.

The show also continues to be screened on BBC America.

Published: 2 Nov 2003