‘8 Simple Rules’ fires a producer

Flody Suarez, executive producer of ABC’s “8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter,” has been fired from the sitcom due to conflicts over its management.

Suarez, who helped develop the series, left because of “different management opinions,” said an ABC spokesperson, who decline to elaborate. Suarez could not be reached for comment.

Sources said Suarez ran into disagreement with fellow executive producer Tom Shadyac, who runs the series.

The move came as the series continues its transition from pure comedy to a bittersweet tone after the abrupt death of star John Ritter in September.

As for whether Suarez’s departure would signify a change in the show’s direction, an insider said, “Viewers will not notice any difference in the show.”

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Greg Braxton