I can't remember if CBS just ordered 16 episodes as Linda would only commit to a short final year.

or did CBS cut the order when the rating dropped the final year?

Probably a mix of both things. CBS also gave Dukes Of Hazzard an abbreviated final season that year as well.

Probably a mix of both things. CBS also gave Dukes Of Hazzard an abbreviated final season that year as well.

"Dukes of Hazzard" was more of an issue of CBS canceling the series due to a 25% ratings drop over the previous season.

While "Alice" clearly had a planned ending as M*A*S*H and ONE DAT AT A TIME did.

I don't think it was shorter but I can't stand the opening for the final season. The whole red square and no opening car sequence ruins the whole opening.