Matthew Weiner (Sipa / AP Photo)
Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner is defending himself after fans of the AMC TV series were disappointed to learn that the fifth season won’t air until 2012—and the sixth is still up in the air—due to a contract dispute with Weiner. In a statement to fan website Basket of Kisses, Weiner wrote, “I want the fans to know directly from me that I had nothing to do with this delay and it is not about money. I am fighting for the cast and for the show. And I appreciate the kindness and concern of the fans.” Weiner also confirmed reports he was asked to cut two characters from the show each year for three years, but disputed the report that he’s been offered $10 million to continue with the show for three years. Weiner said, “The number that’s been published is not true,” and that he “offered to have less money, to save the cast, and to leave the show in the running time that it’s supposed to be. The harder that I’ve fought for the show, the more money that they’ve offered me.” Fans of Don and Betty Draper—stay tuned!