Despite hopes that it may be saved, American comedy My Name Is Earl will not be returning.

The show was dropped last month by US TV network NBC, but smaller network TBS said they may consider running it instead.

However show bosses have now declined that offer, after weighing up the cuts they would need to make to the show to fit in with the new reduced budget.

An official statement read: “While we had hoped to find a way to produce additional episodes for TBS, in the final analysis we simply could not make the economics work without seriously undermining the artistic integrity of the series.

“As none of us, [series creator] Greg [Garcia] included, want the show to go out on anything but a high note, we regret that we must put to rest any speculation that Earl will continue.

“We are grateful to everyone at TBS for their enthusiasm for the series and wish to offer our heartfelt thanks to the cast and crew of My Name Is Earl for their incredible work.”