ABC has confirmed that acclaimed comedy Black-ish has been renewed for a sixth season.
Black-ish is down about 30% in the demo this season, likely a combination of a less compatible lead-in from The Kids Are Alright, no Roseanne halo, and residual backlash from its polarizing divorce arc in season four. However, the show is an easy renewal for ABC because its ratings are still renewable relative to its competition, it’s the best shot the network has at getting Emmy nominations in big categories, and it’s the first ABC-produced, ABC-aired comedy to reach syndication since According to Jim. With more time remaining on the show’s original contracts, ABC is looking to build up the show’s syndication package while keeping its slate steady in anticipation of Modern Family‘s exit next season.
Even with its sagging ratings, Black-ish is in a solid enough position at ABC that the network has given a series order to its second spinoff Mixed-ish. Originally, Mixed-ish was to air its backdoor pilot on Tuesday, May 7th at 9:00, but now the network is holding that episode until next season, with Bless This Mess airing at 9:00 that night. That, along with the early pickup, points to Mixed-ish as a favorite for a fall slot.
From Black-ish creator Kenya Barris and Peter Saji, Mixed-ish
The season finale of Black-ish is set to air Tuesday, May 21st at 9:00 on ABC.
