Transmission of The Runner is to be put on hold, ABC have announced. The series features a US citizen on the run from 'agents' across the length of the country.

Lloyd Braun, co-chairman of ABC Entertainment Television, explained the decision. "Unfortunately, it is our view that today’s environment would not be conducive to this type of television event," he said.

"We have spent a great deal of time and effort developing what we feel is a totally unique and exciting series. It is our hope that circumstances will evolve in such a way that we’ll eventually be comfortable moving forward."

The series, developed by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, was due to premiere on January 7, but will now be pushed back by several months, with an airdate most likely in early Summer.