Scandal Reduced To 18 Episodes This Season – ARTICLE

First Published: December 7, 2013 10:38 AM EST Credit: ABC

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- ABC says it will air four fewer episodes of “Scandal” than planned this season.

The network on Friday didn’t say why it will broadcast 18 instead of 22 episodes. But the decision follows word that “Scandal” star Kerry Washington and her new husband, football player Nnamdi Asomugha, are expecting a baby.

The shortened schedule will wrap production early for its pregnant star.

READ: Tony Goldwyn: Kerry Washington ‘Blew My Mind’ On ‘Saturday Night Live’

After next Thursday’s episode airs, “Scandal” will take a break and then return in late February with the final episodes of season three.

The drama series about Washington, D.C., intrigue is a ratings hit for ABC and earned an Emmy nomination for its lead actress.

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