NBC resuscitates ‘ER’ for a final season

“ER,” one of television’s most honored programs, refused once again to go quietly into that good night and was officially picked up for a 15th and final season, NBC officials announced Wednesday.

Despite steadily declining ratings in recent years, the medical drama will return in the fall with 19 episodes, including the finale, currently scheduled for February. The series will continue to air in the 10 p.m. Thursday slot that it has occupied since premiering in 1994.

“We really wanted to give ‘ER’ the proper platform and the proper respect for being the most nominated show in television history,” NBC entertainment chief Ben Silverman said during a press event in New York City, where the network unveiled its programming plans for the next year.

The medical drama pioneered a documentary-like production style for a prime-time drama and survived a revolving door of stars – among them George Clooney, Eriq La Salle, Noah Wyle and Julianna Margulies.

“ER” has more Emmy nominations than any other show in television history and has won 22, including one as best drama series in 1996.

The series once commanded audiences that exceeded 30 million, but it has dropped below 10 million this season, fueling rumors that cancellation was likely.

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Martin Miller