Chris Rock's HBO Show Axed

Nov. 22 -- Raunchy, sassy comedian Chris Rock will end his four-year tenure on HBO this Friday, when the final episode of The Chris Rock Show airs.

Rock’s late-night talk show has earned several Emmy nominations since 1997 and received an Emmy in 1999. There was no explanation for the show’s demise, but the cable network confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter Tuesday that Rock will be still be welcome at HBO.

The comedian “is one of the biggest stars out there, and we continue to remain in business with him and his concert specials,” said Chris Albrecht, HBO’s president of original programming.

Rock, known for his daring humor and ruthless vocabulary, got his start on Saturday Night Live in 1990. He’s appeared in numerous films, including the recent comedy Nurse Betty, and garnered MTV’s highest all-time ratings when he hosted the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards.

Rock’s final episode, featuring guest rapper Ice-T, will air Friday at midnight ET.