‘The Glee Project’ Canceled at Oxygen, Unrelated to Cory Monteith’s Death

Though the future of the FOX musical dramedy 'Glee' remains up in the air after the tragic death of series star Cory Monteith, it seems the franchise has suffered yet another setback. Oxygen tie-in series 'The Glee Project' has officially been denied a third season, though the reasoning has nothing to do with Monteith's recent passing.

Initially, the future of 'The Glee Project' had been in doubt when FOX held off on making 'Glee' proper's fifth season renewal official, unexpectedly renewing the FOX drama for both seasons 5 and 6. The late April decision to renew 'Glee' would have made 'The Glee Project' unable to air new episodes for another 18 months, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

"'The Glee Project' will not be returning to Oxygen, but we are extremely proud of this series which launched the careers of several talented individuals," said Oxygen in a statement about the cancellation. "The show had so much heart and we thank Ryan Murphy and all of the creative talent who helped make the series a critical darling."

'Glee' Project' alumni Blake Jenner and Alex Newell were recently promoted to series regulars, along with freshman cast members Melissa Benoist (Marley), Jacob Artist (Jake), Becca Tobin (Kitty). The recent additions balance out the exits of longtime series stars Heather Morris, Mark Salling, Amber Riley and Harry Shum, Jr., stepping down as regulars. ‘American Idol‘ runner-up Adam Lambert was announced to join the cast, but it remains to be seen in what role or for how long.

Well, what say you? Does the end of 'The Glee Project' suggest another hardship for the 'Glee' franchise overall, or will the series push forward to greater heights?