ABC Benches FlashForward Until March

FlashForward will be taking an extended hiatus until March 4 following Thursday's new episode, TVGuide.com has confirmed.

An ABC spokesperson tells TVGuide.com that the later date will allow the serial drama to air new episodes back-to-back without repeats. The Wrap, which first reported the news, also says ABC does not want the show to have to compete with the 2010 Winter Olympics, airing in February on NBC.

FlashForward picked up for full season

FlashForward was originally scheduled to return with new episodes in January 2010. However, a preview at the end of the latest episode revealed new episodes would not air until March 2010. Among the many revelations made in the preview was an indication that there will be another blackout.

FlashForward debuted strong in October to 12.4 million viewers and a 4.1 rating among adults ages 18-49 but has dropped off significantly since. The Nov. 19 episode attracted 7.97 million viewers and a 2.4 rating in the 18-49 demo.

No word yet on which show will take over FlashForward's Thursday time slot at 8/7c.

Are you sad to see FlashForward off the schedule?