US television network ABC denied on Sunday that it had cancelled comedian Tim Allen's popular sitcom "Last Man Standing" due to its conservative politics.

Fans of the show - and Allen himself - were angered when ABC announced in May that one of its most-watched scripted series, a solid ratings draw, was being brought to an end.

Allen's character, an outspoken conservative, echoed the political positions of the 64-year-old actor, a Republican who attended President Donald Trump's inauguration.

The announcement sparked a firestorm of criticism on social media, with Allen tweeting that he had been "stunned and blindsided" by Disney-owned ABC's decision.