[CrimsonTide4]

PERMANENTLY PARKED: It seems as though the future of the hit UPN sitcom, “The Parkers” is bleak. As a matter of fact, there is no future for the popular show.

The RU Report has exclusively learned that the physical comedy –starring plus-sized funny-woman Mo’Nique and TV star Countess Vaughan-- will shutter with the taping of the January 23 show after a five-year run.

Created by sitcom veterans Ralph Farquhar, Sara V. Finney and Vida Spears, the “Moesha” spin-off centered on the comical exploits of a feisty, fashionably hip mother and her dim-witted daughter, both students at the same college. The show has been a staple on the network’s Monday night line-up and has served as a launching pad for other successful shows, such as “Eve,” “Girlfriends” and “One On One.”

According to a production insider, the powers that be at UPN – a Viacom property—didn’t want to continue producing the show because of its cost. After 110 episodes, the show recently went into syndication.

Hmmmm.

I’ll go on the record and say it: When is comes to shows targeted to the African American demo, as soon as syndication rights roll around – the show goes down the tubes (no pun intended).

Meanwhile, some “other” shows can still be on the network, and be seen several times a day in syndication.

How clear!

We were told to stay tuned for more details. But why wait for someone else to deliver the news on the demise of another show that’s a favorite amongst Black households. Which ones?? Not mine!!

What will be interesting is to see what show will fill “The Parkers”’ slot. Even more interesting is what will happen to the cast members. Mo’Nique, a best-selling author and host of the Suzanne De Passe-helmed “Showtime At The Apollo,” seemed to be the only one who diversified her portfolio.

Well wishes to them all.