CBS cancels 'Guiding Light'

CBS has cancelled US soap Guiding Light after 72 years on air, reports TV Week.

The world's longest-running scripted series, which debuted as a radio-based soap opera in 1937 before moving to TV in 1952, will screen for the final time on Friday, September 18.

"Guiding Light has achieved a piece of television history that will never be matched; it has crossed mediums, adapted its stories to decades of social change and woven its way through generations of audiences like no other," said Nancy Tellem, president of CBS Paramount Network Television Entertainment Group.

"This daytime icon will always be an indelible part of CBS’s history, with a legacy of innovation and reputation for quality and excellence at every step of the way. While its presence will be missed, its contributions will always be celebrated and never be forgotten."

"No show in daytime or primetime, or any time, has touched so many millions of viewers across so many years," added Barbara Bloom, head of daytime for CBS.

Guiding Light executive producer Ellen Wheeler said that it would be difficult to say goodbye to the series.

"Being on the air for more than seven decades is truly remarkable," she said. "This show has such a rich history, wonderful fans, and I’m honoured to have been a part of the Guiding Light legacy."

Procter & Gamble, which produces the show, said that it will explore other possibilities for keeping it alive with online and cable TV versions both possible.

"We are working hard to find the show a new home and we are exploring all our options to continue to bring loyal fans the characters and stories they love," said Brian T. Cahill, senior vice-president and managing director of TeleNext Media, the Procter & Gamble unit which produces Guiding Light and sister soap As the World Turns.

In May, the iconic series underwent a radical overhaul to slash its operating budget. However, the changes failed to impress and ratings have fallen by 25% in the past year.