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WHAT HAPPENED TO THE FIFTH SEASON?

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 Ratings for the show in the fourth season declined precipitously in the United States, and ABC ultimately decided to cancel it. For many FOLCs, this decision came as something of a surprise, since announcements were made many months earlier that Lois & Clark had already been renewed for a fifth season.

The early renewal was part of a convoluted deal involving "The Rosie O'Donnell" show. In an April 7, 1997 article about the FOLC Ad, USA Today explained:

"Meanwhile, the man of steel has been saved from cancellation by the Rosie O'Donnell Show."

"ABC-owned TV stations wanted to renew O'Donnell's show syndicated talk show. Warner Bros. Television which produces O'Donnell and Lois and Clark, required the stations to renew both shows and reportedly snagged a full season, 22 episode order for Lois and Clark."

However, when ABC announced its 1997-1998 schedule, Lois & Clark was noticeably absent. There was initially some thought that Lois & Clark would return as a mid-season replacement, and there were apparently a number of last-minute discussions between Warner Brothers and ABC.

The end of Lois & Clark came, however, on May 21, 1997. Producers Brad Buckner and Eugenie Ross-Leming posted the following announcement:

"Dear one and all:

"This afternoon, Wednesday, 5/22 [sic], ABC successfully negotiated its way out of season # Five of Lois and Clark. The show is officially over.

"We are grateful beyond words to all of you for the support, for fighting the good fight, and for appreciating (often at least) our efforts.

"Our very best to all of you; thanks once again.

Brad & Eugenie
and all of us at Lois & Clark"

Many disappointed FOLCs are writing fanfic versions of the "fifth season" that never was.
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