It was announced today that Scandal star Kerry Washington is pregnant, with ABC announcing shortly after that they will reduce season 6 to 16 episodes to accommodate the actress. TVLine first reported the news earlier today.

This will be the second time this has happened. When Washington was pregnant two years ago, the episode order was reduced to 18. Reviews of the fifth season have been mediocre compared to others, so this might help get the show back on track with a tighter sixth season.

No word if the episode cut might help bring back shows on the bubble like The Catch or The Family, that could squeeze in while Scandal is off air. ABC declined to comment if the show will debut in fall and take an extended break, or if the series will be held until midseason.