TNT Closing the Book on "The Closer" in 2001

Turner Network Television (TNT) announced on December 10, 2010, that "The Closer" will conclude with its seventh season, which will begin filming in spring of 2010.

The call for closing "The Closer" apparently began with the series star, Emmy Award winner Kyra Sedgwick (the real-life Mrs. Kevin Bacon).

"I cannot fathom how difficult it will be to say goodbye to the incredible family we've created on 'The Closer,'" Kyra Sedgwick confessed.

TNT executives credited Kyra Sedgwick for much of the success of "The Closer.'

"It's impossible to fully express our appreciation to Kyra Sedgwick, series creator James Duff and all of the other talented people who brought 'The Closer' to TNT viewers," commented Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks. "'The Closer' was a pivotal series in setting a new course for TNT's original programming, while also serving as a prime example of the storytelling strength possible on cable television."

"Kyra Sedgwick has distinguished herself not only as an extraordinary actress, but as a remarkable set leader and presence on 'The Closer,'" said Peter Roth, president of Warner Bros. Television. "The series has literally changed the face and course of both TNT and Warner Bros. Television, and we will always be grateful for all that she has contributed toward that success."

"Kyra blazed a new trail in the television landscape with her performance as Brenda Leigh Johnson," said Michael Wright, executive vice president and head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM). "Like her many fans, we will miss her terribly, and we will be forever grateful for the time we got to spend with her."

What is "The Closer"?

Created by James Duff and produced by Warner Brothers Television, "The Closer" is a highly rated television crime series, set in Los Angeles, California. "The Closer" airs on Turner Network Television (TNT), a Time Warner cable television station.

The drama, which premiered in June 2005, focuses on protagonist Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson (played by Kyra Sedgwick), a transplanted Southern detective and head of the Major Crimes Division of the Los Angeles Police Department. Kyra Sedgwick's character is a street savvy detective with a penchant for sneaking sweets and an uncanny ability to use her wit and Southern charm to draw confessions from the toughest of criminals.

"The Closer" cast includes G. W. Bailey, Michael Paul Chan, Raymond Cruz, Tony Denison, Robert Gossett, Mary McDonnell, Corey Reynolds, Gina Ravera, J. K. Simmons and Jon Tenney.

The seventh and final season of "The Closer," which will include the popular crime drama's 100^th show, will contain 15 episodes.