Sliding ratings hit McBeal

Ally McBeal has been axed after five years.

The current series will be the last, following a ratings slump in the States.

A raft of guest stars brought in to salvage the legal comedy-drama, including Dame Edna Everage and Jon Bon Jovi, failed to stop the slide.

Creator David E Kelley, said: "It's sad to say goodbye to something you love, even when perhaps it is time."

The show's star, Calista Flockhart, and the rest of the cast and crew were given the news late yesterday afternoon.

Published: 18 Apr 2002