ABC's reality programming chief, John Saade, fired

ABC-TV reality programming chief John Saade, apologizing for "rude behavior" he did not detail, says he has been fired from the U.S. network. Saade has worked at ABC since 2004 and had a hand in the creation of "Dancing With the Stars," "Shark Tank," "Wipeout" and "The Bachelor." He oversaw all the network's prime time unscripted series and late-night programming. The reason for his firing wasn't reported, though a letter he wrote to his staff hints at turmoil behind the scenes. "Under the stress and pace of the job, I sincerely apologize for any rude behavior. It wasn't called for, and don't hold it against me when we work together in the future. Because I am genuinely excited by what's next. I know this bruise will heal, the inevitable jabs will be forgotten, and 13-plus years of ABC memories and relationships will remain," he wrote. E! chief Lisa Berger is likely to replace Saade at ABC, The Hollywood Reporter said Friday. Saade's firing is the third exit of a reality chief at a major network since May, perhaps hinting at some unsteadiness in the reality television industry, The Hollywood Reporter said. ABC's latest offering, "Million Second Quiz" lost viewers at an alarming rate early in its 10-episode run, The Hollywood Reporter said.