ABC's crime drama Castle won't continue for a ninth season, as the network has decided to cancel the show after Season 8's final episode airs next week.

News of the show's cancelation comes by way of Deadline, who notes the decision is a surprising one, coming shortly after ABC negotiated new deals for Nathan Fillion, Seamus Dever and Jon Huertas to return for a potential ninth season. However, the decision to not bring co-lead Stana Katic back had led to considerable fan backlash, which may have been a factor in ultimately deciding to end the show. Two different endings were shot for next week's Season 8 finale - one that could have set up Season 9 and another more definitive one that will now be used.

In addition to Castle, Entertainment Weekly is reporting that ABC has also canceled The Muppets and Galavant. According the outlet, the network's adult-minded puppet comedy series will conclude with a single 16-episode season, averaging 5.3 million viewers and a 1.9 rating. For our thoughts on The Muppets short-lived run, check out IGN's Season 1 review.

With regard to Galavant, EW cites a weak average viewer count of 3.1 million, as well as an incredibly low rating average of 0.9 as likely indications as to why ABC's dramedy show won't be seeing a third season.

The cancellations come on the tail end of a day that also saw ABC cancel Agent Carter, Nashville and The Family.