http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20070103usa01

NBC reups Vegas, minus two stars

NBC will bring back Las Vegas for a fifth season, but without stars James Caan and Nikki Cox. In a statement, Caan, who in the past expressed discontent with being tied down to the series, his first venture into TV, said that he will return to the big screen. ''I've had a wonderful four years, worked with great people and made friends for life working on Las Vegas, but I'm eager to return to where my heart is, which is film, and due to the show's schedule, I missed some great opportunities to do that,'' Caan said. ''I wish the show and everyone involved with it continued success.'' Cox's departure is being described as part of a budget-cutting effort. ''I'm very sad and shocked,'' Cox said through a spokesperson. ''I wish them all the best of luck and had a great time working on the shows.'' Las Vegas is the highest rated show in the 9 p.m. Friday slot in adults 18-49, averaging a 2.8 rating/8 share and 9 million viewers. (Hollywood Reporter)