Law & Order: So close to a record

When NBC announced that the network had decided to cancel the long-running show "Law &Order", it was reported that Dick Wolf, creator of the show, was livid.

This I do not doubt for a minute. Wolf is not know for having a 'calm demeanor' or anything of the sort. But, one thing you can't argue with, the man knows his television. To have created this show, and almost single-handedly invented the television 'franchise', gives him a great amount of well-deserved clout.

Wolf has had his heart set on breaking the record for the longest running show on network television. The record, is currently held by "Gunsmoke". "Law & Order" is oh so close. About to wrap up its 20th season, the show has tied "Gunsmoke", but needs one more season to break the record.

Now NBC has taken the chance at the record away by canceling the show. Well, they think they're canceling it, but if my money is on any one getting their way, it's on Wolf.

Having met him a few years ago, to say he's a tough nut is an understatement. Besides, Wolf still has dealings with NBC that he can use as leverage to get what he wants. He has the successful "Law & Order: SVU" and the new "Law & Order: Los Angeles" to bargain with. NBC has seemed to like working with Wolf. He seems to be their go-to franchise producer, just as CBS has Bruckheimer of 'CSI" fame and ABC has Shonda Rhimes for their 'doctors in love and work' shows.

So, in my opinion, this isn't over yet. It will be interesting to see how all of this plays out. As we always say in television, (and I hate to drag out an incredibly overused cliche here, but) stay tuned.