Lorre’s Memoir 'Sitcom' Reveals Regret Over Casting Anna Faris in 'Mom'

Key points

• Lorre initially hesitated to cast Faris, fearing she was unsuitable for the material, but changed his mind after reflecting on his troubled relationship with Charlie Sheen.
• Lorre states Faris left the show before its final season for 'mysterious reasons' that were not mysterious to anyone on the show, though he did not specify the details.
• Faris previously explained her departure on the 'Happy Sad Confused' podcast, citing the intensity of the role and a 'complicated time' in her life.
• Lorre criticizes CBS for canceling 'Mom' after eight seasons, describing Allison Janney as a 'national treasure' and the show as having found its 'true voice' in its later seasons.
• The memoir also details Lorre's chaotic experience with Charlie Sheen during the final days of 'Two and a Half Men' in 2011, including a failed attempt to replace Sheen with Hugh Grant.

Background

Lorre's memoir 'Sitcom' was released on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The book details his experiences as a TV creator, including his work on 'Two and a Half Men' and 'Mom.' The memoir has generated significant media attention, with multiple outlets covering his comments on Faris and Sheen. Faris left 'Mom' in 2020, and the show was canceled by CBS in 2021 after eight seasons.

How outlets are covering it

The Daily Beast, E! News, TheWrap, and Page Six all report on Lorre's comments in his memoir, but they emphasize different aspects. The Daily Beast focuses on Lorre's 'torching' of Faris, while E! News and TheWrap highlight his 'vindication' and the 'mysterious reasons' for her departure. Page Six provides additional context on Lorre's relationship with Charlie Sheen and his criticism of CBS. All outlets agree that Lorre initially hesitated to cast Faris but later felt his doubts were justified by her departure. Faris's previous explanation for her departure, citing the intensity of the role, is also mentioned by all outlets.

Why it matters

Lorre's memoir provides insight into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of a popular sitcom and the challenges of casting and working with actors. His comments on Faris and Sheen highlight the complexities of creative relationships and the impact of personal issues on professional projects. The memoir also sheds light on the decision-making process behind the cancellation of 'Mom,' which was a hit show with a strong cast.

What to watch

The release of Lorre's memoir is likely to generate further discussion about his work and his relationships with actors. Faris's representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment, and it is unclear if she will address Lorre's comments. The memoir may also lead to renewed interest in 'Mom' and other Lorre shows.