'Louie' Is Coming Back, But Only Sort of

Good news for Louis C.K. fans — well, sort of. The Wrap reports that Louie has been renewed for a fifth season, but there's a catch — there will only be seven episodes. This very well may be a test of sorts for the series, given that it was met with very heavy criticism this season. Only a seven episode grant may be a silent way of FX telling the folks who make Louie, "look, here's your shot, but we're not committing to a full season. Make these episodes incredible and give us some critical darlings, and we'll keep you on for a sixth season. Fail to do so, and you'll get the ax."

Much of the reception that the show got this season was riddled with consternation — everyone wants to like Louie; it's smart, provocative, awkward, and uncomfortable. Louis C.K. is stellar at pointing out truisms in often uncomfortable ways. But some critics raised their flags and said they weren't comfortable at all this season, and there seemed to be a collective opinion that "uncomfortably funny and very dark" wasn't what people signed up for initially.

But that discontent that some people have with the series is also what makes it bold and unique. It charts territory, and needless to say, it's nominated for five Emmy awards this season.

Seven episodes may actually be, in fact, a testament to the showrunners' desire to play with TV norms; it could just be another bold exercise in television from the people who make Louie.

FX CEO John Landraf released a statement that said:

Louie's’ fourth season was once again groundbreaking. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking — always thought provoking [...] The show went to narrative and cinematic places no comedy has gone before and we look forward to seeing what Louis comes up with next.

And isn't that what good comedy does? Break ground and cause discussion? Naysayers can turn off FX when Louie comes back for its fifth season, but fans will likely stay tuned to see what Louis C.K. has up his sleeves this time. Hopefully, whatever it is, it will keep the show on the air for a sixth season.

Image: FX