'Alphas' axed; 'Fringe' farewell to air Friday

Thursday January 17, 2013 4:45 PM By Chris Serico

Photo credit: Frank Ockenfels/Syfy | David Strathairn plays Dr. Lee Rosen on "Alphas."

It's the end of the line for Syfy's "Alphas" and Fox's "Fringe," two science fiction TV shows with strong Hudson Valley connections.

"Alphas" lasted just two seasons, with the final episode airing Oct. 22. It was announced Wednesday night that Syfy did not renew the show.

The series chronicled the adventures of humans with special powers, called Alphas, who were trying to prevent other Alphas from terrorizing humanity. David Strathairn, an Academy Award nominee who lives in Clinton Corners, played Dr. Lee Rosen. Thankfully for him, he has had little problem finding work on the silver screen and on stage. Besides  being part of an incredible ensemble cast in "Lincoln," which is Oscar-nominated for best picture, Strathairn is also enjoying a Broadway run with Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain in "The Heiress."

Syfy released a statement on the "Alphas'" cancellation: “Syfy has decided not to renew Alphas for a third season. We’ve been proud to present this entertaining, high-quality series for two seasons and to work with an incredible ensemble of talented actors, producers and creatives as well as our partners at BermanBraun Television. We’d like to thank the show’s dedicated regular viewers for their tremendous support.”

Over on Fox, "Fringe" is meeting its own end with a two-hour series finale Friday at 8 p.m.

Co-created by Sarah Lawrence College grad J.J. Abrams, the timeline-twisting drama stars Joshua Jackson, Anna Torv and John Noble. Abrams also served as the show's executive producer, a writer and even as the composer of its theme song.

Much like Strathairn, Abrams always seems to have something in the works, and sci-fi fanatics won't have to wait much longer to see his next frontier. "Star Trek: Into Darkness," which he's directing and producing, hits theaters May 17.

Which sci-fi TV show will you miss more: "Alphas" or "Fringe"? Vote in Newsday Westchester's poll and explain your answer in the comments section below.

Tags: Clinton Corners , David Strathairn , Alphas , Dutchess , Hudson Valley , Bronxville , Yonkers , J.J. Abrams , Fringe , Sarah Lawrence College , TV