Chuck Lorre says his early doubts about casting Anna Faris on 'Mom' were validated by her departure
In his memoir, sitcom creator Chuck Lorre reflects on his initial hesitation to cast Anna Faris in CBS's 'Mom' and notes that her exit after six seasons confirmed his concerns.
Chuck Lorre, co-creator of the CBS comedy "Mom," wrote in his new memoir that his early reservations about casting Anna Faris proved accurate when the actress left the series after six seasons. Lorre said he was unsure whether Faris was suited for the role, recalling past difficulties he experienced working with Charlie Sheen on "Two and a Half Men."
The memoir recounts that Faris, who played Christy Plunkett from 2013 to 2020, departed the show ahead of its eighth season for reasons Lorre described as "mysterious" to the public but known to the production team. Faris later discussed her decision on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast, saying the intensity of the later seasons affected her focus and that she left during a complicated period in her life.
Lorre also praised later seasons of "Mom" for finding a stronger voice and addressing themes such as hope and recovery from alcoholism. He criticized CBS for ending the series after eight seasons, noting the network's decision to cancel a show led by Allison Janney.