CHICAGO (thefutoncritic.com) -- The future of syndicated dramas "Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda" and "Mutant X" may be decided by the legal system, according to documents released by both series' U.S. distributor, Tribune Entertainment.

The news comes on the heels of last week's closing of Fireworks Entertainment, the Canadian company which produces both "Mutant X" and "Andromeda" (read the story). Said development caused production on both shows to be halted indefinitely, calling into question the fates of each.

Tribune had cleared both shows through the 2004-05 season on more than 140 local stations across the U.S. covering 85% of the country and in "Andromeda's" case, had also partnered with cable's Sci Fi Channel for shared airings of the series.

Nevertheless, without Fireworks' financial backing Tribune appears unwilling to go forward with the new seasons. As part of its 2003 Annual Report, Tribune noted that following in regards to both series:

"Tribune Entertainment has ordered production of 2004/2005 seasons of 'Andromeda' and 'Mutant X' and exercised contractual options requiring its financial partner to provide funding, however, Tribune Entertainment's financial partner has commenced litigation which seeks a determination that it is not obligated to participate in the further financing or production of either series."

While details about said litigation have yet to be released, it's obvious this development presents a major hurdle for both series to resume production.

Click here for access to Tribune's annual reports.

Special thanks to Meg Lahey for forwarding this information.