'30 Rock' returning for final 13-episode season

Associated Press
In this 2011 image released by NBC, Alec Baldwin portrays Jack Donaghy, left, and Tina Fey portrays Liz Lemon in the NBC comedy series, "30 Rock." NBC says “30 Rock” will be returning next season for a final, abbreviated run. (AP Photo/NBC, Ali Goldstein)

NEW YORK (AP) — NBC says "30 Rock'''s next season will be its last.

The network said Thursday the much-acclaimed sitcom will have an abbreviated run of 13 episodes in its seventh season before calling it quits.

The show has been a critical favorite since premiering in 2006. It has won numerous awards, as have its creator-star Tina Fey and co-star Alec Baldwin. Many high-profile guest stars, including Matt Damon, Elizabeth Banks and Al Gore, have appeared on the show. But the series was never a ratings smash, and this year its audience has dwindled to an average 3.5 million viewers.

NBC will join other broadcast networks in unveiling full new prime-time schedules for advertisers next week. NBC will make its upcoming lineup official on Sunday.