In twenty-five years, The Killing will be viewed a cult hit; not appreciated in its time – the generation of television fanatics - and people will snigger yet adore its few shortcomings. Currently, though, fans who were angered by the lack of closure in season 2 might be pleased to see the back of it as AMC have put a stop to season four, seemingly forever.

Joel Kinnaman
Joel Kinnaman plays Detective Stephen Holder in The Killing.

The dark crime drama has already survived a near death experience once, having come back for a third season after it was announced it had been cancelled. But this time, it feels different. "We have made the difficult decision not to move forward with a fourth season of 'The Killing,'” said a statement from the network. "We want to thank our great partners at Fox Television Studios, creator Veena Sud, an extraordinary cast and the dedicated fans who watched. (L.A Times)

The show, an American remake of the original Danish series, was highly rated, at least in its first season. Its metascores went from 85 down to the high 60s in the second and third seasons, leading AMC to a spot of plug pulling.

Mirellie EnosMirellie Enos - the show's lead - at the World War Z premiere

Fox Television Studios executives said in a statement that it was "extremely proud of all three seasons of 'The Killing.'[...]While we would have loved to produce a fourth season for AMC, FTVS is immensely grateful to everyone involved with this moving series." The statement concluded, "Most of all, FTVS thanks the terrific fans of 'The Killing,' who communicated their appreciation for the show throughout its run."

In other Scandinavian crime drama news, The Bridge season two is set to begin its run in Sweden on September 22nd.