ABC Benches 'Ugly Betty'

ABC will bench Thursday staple Ugly Betty in favor of a comedy hour starting March 26, the network announced on Monday. Betty, played by America Ferrera (pictured), has struggled in the ratings recently, though execs promise the show will return later in the season. The comedy, Motherhood, starring Megan Mullally (Will & Grace) and Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm), is based on a Web series about two buddies. It will be followed by new episodes of Samantha Who? ABC also announced yesterday that another new comedy, Better Off Ted, starring Ellen's girlfriend Portia de Rossi, will air Wednesdays. (Photo: WENN)