Showtime has renewed its comedy series Shameless for a ninth season amid a strong ratings showing for the show’s eighth season premiere.
The series, which stars William H. Macy and Emmy Rossum, drew more than 1.8 million viewers in its Oct. 5 season eight premiere (Live +SD) and more than 2 million viewers when repeat telecasts are factored in, according to Showtime officials.
Shameless also served as a strong lead-in for Showtime freshman series SMILF, which drew more than 1 million viewers -- including repeat airings -- in its Sunday night premiere, Showtime said.
“As challenging as it can be for any show simply to maintain viewers in the current TV landscape, Shameless is adding them in droves,” Showtime Networks resident and CEO David Nevins said in a statement. “But it’s no mystery why. The series’ reputation for rich and resonant characters and for deep – and deeply twisted – comedy has drawn not only faithful longtime viewers, but a steadily growing audience. And creatively, the season that kicked off this past Sunday is stronger than ever.”
Shameless is produced by Bonanza Productions in association with John Wells Productions and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by John Wells, Nancy M. Pimental and Sheila Callaghan.
