'Detroit 1-8-7' future uncertain with 3 shows left

DETROIT — With three episodes left to air and its future uncertain, the principals behind the ABC crime drama "Detroit 1-8-7" are fighting for a second season — even if that means trying to follow other network cast-offs to basic cable.

The made-in-Motown show returns from a break Tuesday night with the first of its initial season's final three episodes. The series, which stars Michael Imperioli of "Sopranos" fame and veteran actor James McDaniel, has been well received by critics and has done reasonably well with viewers, averaging 7.6 million viewers and placing second in its time spot behind CBS's "The Good Wife," but ahead of NBC's "Parenthood."

Even so, ABC Entertainment Group President Paul Lee told the Television Critics Association in January that "Detroit 1-8-7" was among a few shows for which ratings, not quality, was an issue.

While it's rare for cable networks to pick up shows canceled by networks, McDaniel and executive producer David Zabel said they'd be open to such a switch.

"I hope the network has the integrity and courage to stick by a show that they know is good," Zabel said. "If not, then I hope the studio is diligent and crafty enough to find a way to allow us to continue on elsewhere."

ABC spokeswoman Cathy Rehl said network executives were not available to comment for this story because they are busy dealing with pilot season. Zabel knows that studying the pilots is part of the process that will decide his show's fate, and he's been promised that the network isn't making a hasty decision on the ABC Studios-produced show.

"I think for a show like ours to succeed on a network like ABC — which is not the obvious place for a show like this — there needs to be greater awareness of the show among the audience that I think would really appreciate the show. And I don't think that's happened," Zabel said. He added he thinks "Detroit 1-8-7" has a bit of a cable feel and could do well on a cable network, citing network refugee "Southland," which is thriving on TNT after being cut by NBC.

McDaniel said he plans to be back regardless of the show's TV home and will "make whatever adjustments I have to make." Still, the actor who also starred for several seasons on ABC's "NYPD Blue," also credits the network where the show currently resides.

"ABC was, quite frankly, brave enough to put this show on the air," he said. "I can only imagine the line that they have to walk. I don't understand that part of the industry.