State of Affairs, the new NBC CIA drama starring Katherine Heigl, is already facing some behind-the-scenes issues and the pilot hasn’t even aired. The show has lost its showrunner, who leads the team of writers on the show’s direction.
The news was first reported by Entertainment Weekly. Sources for the site said that Criminal Minds veteran Ed Bernero has left the show over creative differences with executive producer Joe Carnahan (The Blacklist).
EW and The Hollywood Reporter have both confirmed that the issue had nothing to do with the show’s star, Heigl. The former Grey’s Anatomy actress has a reputation for being difficult to work with, criticism that Heigl deflected in July during the TV Critics Association Press Tour.
“I can only say that I certainly don't see myself as being difficult. I would never intend to be difficult,” she told reporters. “I think it's important to everybody to conduct themselves kindly and respectfully and professionally.”
It’s not clear who will replace Bernero, but the show does have some time. NBC has held it back for midseason, so it won’t premiere until Nov. 17. It will air on Mondays after The Voice.
In the series, Heigl stars as a CIA advisor for the president, played by Alfre Woodard.
image courtesy of INFphoto.com