Are 'Numb3rs' Days Numbered at CBS?

Is the future of the syndicated TNT crime drama Numb3rs in danger at its home network CBS? That’s the question many are asking after the network decreased the number of episodes in the show’s current sixth season from an original 22 to just 16.

While Variety reports CBS executives have claimed the November 4 development isn’t as foreboding as it may seem since a renewal decision won’t happen until May 2010, it’s obvious that reducing an episode order isn’t a sign of confidence in a show’s performance.

There are a couple of issues that explain CBS’ decision. First, like many other Friday-night series, Numb3rs has earned lower ratings than usual this season. It’s averaging about 7.9 million viewers total each week this fall.

According to the network, CBS also has several midseason shows waiting in the wings to premiere, including the popular Canadian import Flashpoint, which has performed well on Fridays previously. Shortening Numb3rs‘ current season will make room in CBS’ schedule for those series to air.

Given the latest news and its possible implications, the best thing for Numb3rs fans is the fact that the procedural is already syndicated on TNT. So, at least it won’t be disappearing from the tube altogether anytime soon.

Numb3rs currently airs weekdays on TNT from 2–4pm ET.