MSN: ABC cancels 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition'

ABC has canceled "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," one of the channel’s most popular series.

The show features a team of constructors and designers who, in one week, build a home for a family in need. Recipients of homes have included war veterans, people with special physical needs, and community activists.

“Home Edition” debuted in 2003 as a spin-off of the “Extreme Makeover” series. It quickly gained popularity and developed a following. The feel-good stories were as interesting and important, if not more so, than the actual finished house.

Recently, the series has reached out to and featured guest appearances by celebrities including: First Lady Michelle Obama, Kristen Chenoweth, Marlee Matlin, Rob Zombie, and Glenn Close, as well as the band Journey.

According to report, the show will end on Jan. 13, 2012, with “the team building seven homes in seven days for tornado victims in Joplin, Mo.” This will also be the show’s 200th episode.

Home Designer Michael Moloney issued the following statement: “For nine season, I was blessed to change lives across the globe with the help of loving communities, generous sponsors, and a cast that has become my second family.”

“I was lucky to have this show as a perpetual reminder of my own blessings, but my work won’t stop with the end of the series. It is with a somber heart I close this chapter, but with such excitement I begin the next one.”

Crew Chief Ty Pennington, known for his designs and construction skills, as well as for his command of the bullhorn, told fans of the cancellation on his website. He thanked the crew and cast, then gave “a huge thank you to the fans.”

“You are loyal and enthusiastic and we draw so much energy from your commitment to our work. You are the reason for our success.”