 Subsequently, it has inspired the makers of other shows to do likewise.Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant refused to make a third series of either "The Office" or "Extras" (both also limited to 12 episodes), citing "Fawlty Towers' " short lifespan.Rik Mayall, Ben Elton and Lise Mayer, the writers behind "The Young Ones", which also ran for only two series (each with six episodes), used this explanation as well.