A&E dismounts Longmire

US cablenet A&E has axed its most-watched scripted series, Western drama Longmire, after a run of three seasons.

The show followed the story of a Wyoming sheriff who returns to work following the death of his wife and must solve a series of crimes while preparing to run for re-election.

Longmire, produced by Warner Horizon Television, averaged 3.7 million viewers in total for its season three finale, according to the network. The show is now set to be put in front of other networks by Warner.

The cancellation means A&E has only two original scripted shows on its slate, with forthcoming remake of the French zombie series The Returned and Psycho prequel Bates Motel.