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Ray Donovan axed after seven seasons – despite lead actor urging fans to demand show bosses extend run

RAY Donovan has been axed after seven seasons - despite lead actor Liev Schreiber urging fans to demand show bosses extend its run.

The Showtime series premiered in 2013 and followed the titular character who is a fixer for the rich and famous and isn't afraid to get blood on his hands.

 Ray Donovan has been axed after seven seasons - despite lead actor Liev Schreiber urging fans to demand show bosses extend its run
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Ray Donovan has been axed after seven seasons - despite lead actor Liev Schreiber urging fans to demand show bosses extend its runCredit: TV handout

The show recently aired its season seven finale, but it will now act as a series finale after Showtime bosses confirmed it had been axed.

In a statement, the network said on Tuesday: "After seven incredible seasons, Ray Donovan has concluded its run on Showtime.

"We are proud that the series ended amid such strong viewership and on such a powerful note.

"Our deepest thanks go to Liev Schreiber, Jon Voight, showrunner David Hollander, and the entire cast and crew, past and present, for their dedicated work."

 The season seven finale has now become the finale for the whole series
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The season seven finale has now become the finale for the whole seriesCredit: Handout
 The show premiered in 2013 and saw Liev play the titular character
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The show premiered in 2013 and saw Liev play the titular characterCredit: Alamy

Just two weeks ago, Liev, 52, took to Instagram to encourage the show's fans to push for an eighth season with show bosses.

Sharing a behind-the-scenes video, the actor wrote: "What an amazing journey it’s been.

"I’ve been reading your comments, and the outpouring of love and support for our cast and crew has been truly overwhelming.

"I know the big question on everyone’s mind is whether there will be a season 8. Truth is it’s in the networks hands.

 Liev urged fans to campaign for the show's return before the cancellation announcement
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Liev urged fans to campaign for the show's return before the cancellation announcementCredit: instagram

"So if you want more, reach out to them at @showtime, @raydonovan, and @cbstv and let them know how you feel.

"Either way it’s been an amazing ride and we have all of you to thank for it."

After hearing the news of the shows cancellation, Liev shared a picture of him raising a glass with the word "sláinte" underneath, which means "cheers" in Irish and "health" in Scottish Gaelic.

Late Cheers star Jay Thomas plays a cantankerous villain on Ray Donovan