Whoa! I actually thought the chemistry between Kate Walsh and Merrin Dungey was some of the most real in the entire show. :/

"The spin-off was cast with actors the network and studio already had under contract."

My husband kept telling me this, but I didn't believe him. I enjoyed all the characters (except CL, hee hee) but I can see why they're making changes.

So, does this confirm MD, CL and PA are gone? (darn fall preview went out yesterday, though I refused to change the name of "Sam I Am" ;p )