It’s been a ride, but it looks as though HBO is set to call time on Lena Dunham’s Girls, after the network renewed the hit drama for a sixth and final season.
Word comes by way of The Hollywood Reporter, confirming that HBO made the announcement during the Television Critics Association where it extended a heartfelt thanks to Dunham, Judd Apatow, and Jenni Korner or crafting a “signature series of rare wit and intelligence.” In light of today’s news, that would put Girls on course for a final bow in 2017, given that the hotly-anticipated season 5 is on course to premiere on Sunday, February 21.
Knowing that a finish line is in place will only make us cherish these last batch of episodes even more so, and Dunham reflected on the show’s hugely successful run – one brimming with cooky humor and genuinely brilliant characters.
I can’t imagine a more fulfilling creative experience than Girls. The freedom and support that HBO has given Jenni, Judd and me is something rare and beautiful. The commitment and originality of our actors has been stunning, and our crew is truly my family. I conceived of Girls when I was 23 and now I’m nearly 30 — the show has quite perfectly spanned my 20s, the period of time that it’s about — and so it feels like the right time to wrap our story up. We look forward to creating a sixth season that will honor our amazing cast, crew and fans. And in the Girls universe, nothing ever ends too neatly.
Looking ahead to the return of Girls, season 5 will largely focus on Marnie’s (Allison Williams) imminent wedding, as each member of the tight-knit group step somewhat hesitantly into the next chapter of their lives. It’ll premiere on February 21.
HBO has carved out ample time to find a replacement for what has become a comedy staple in the network’s lineup, though Lena Dunham’s critically adorned drama will be a difficult act to follow.