Popular lesbian TV drama The L Word is set to end with a sixth season of eight episodes, targeted to go into production late this year for an early 2009 premiere in the US. Shane storylines. The L Word follows a group of Los Angeles-based friends as they navigate careers, families, friendships, personal struggles and romantic relationships. The series became the first lesbian primetime drama on television when it debuted in January 2004. Its stars include Jennifer Beals and Mia Kirshner, later joined by Cybill Shepherd. Chaiken says the show will live on, interactively. "This is by no means the end of The L Word. The brand and the social network community, OurChart.com, will continue to live and be a destination for lesbians everywhere and a lasting tribute to what The L Word has accomplished." She added that fan input will play a part in wrapping up the series' story lines, noting the role that viewer input has played in the past. The series has a big following in the Second Life virtual world and has spawned branded products such as perfume, jewellery and books. The final episodes of the fifth season are broadcast in the states this month, while episodes from the fourth season are currently playing in New Zealand on Prime each Sunday night.