ABC officially renews 'The Neighbors,' cancels 'Family Tools'

By Yvonne Villarreal

May 12, 2013 12 AM PT

ABC carried its program-killing spree into the weekend, confirming Saturday the cancellation of the low-performing comedy “Family Tools.” But, hey, at least the network is keeping “The Neighbors”?

Making its debut as a midseason replacement less than two weeks ago, “Family Tools” lacked the tools necessary to stay alive on the network -- it premiered to 5.7 million viewers and shed more than a million viewers in its second airing. Based on the British format, the comedy featured Kyle Bornheimer as a man who puts his dreams on hold to take over his family’s business. Its late-in-the-game launch and low viewership made it prime meat on the network’s chopping block.

Showing some kindness, the network has opted to keep “The Neighbors” going. The comedy has kept a low profile since its launch in the fall. The alien sitcom, which was mostly panned by critics, will get a second season. It averaged about 6 million viewers and a 1.8 rating in the advertiser-friendly 18-49 demographic.

To review:

The network’s returning shows include “Castle,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Revenge,” “Nashville,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Scandal,” “Last Man Standing,” “Modern Family,” “The Middle,” “Suburgatory,” and “The Neighbors.”

Shows that won’t be returning next season: “Malibu Country,” “Happy Endings,” “How To Live with Your Parents for the Rest of Your Life,” “Body of Proof,” “Red Widow,” and “Family Tools.”

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