Two and a Half Men Minus Two

Producers announce plans to shorten Two and a Half Men season episodes by two episodes

Charlie Sheen's going have more time to prep for that trial.

Instead of the usual 24 episodes, Two and a Half Men will be doing fewer thanks to thanks to its star's voluntary stint in rehab.

"Instead of doing 24 shows this year, we'll be doing 22," executive producer Chuck Lorre tells The New York Times. "But 22 is a full order. They had asked us to produce two additional episodes, which we normally do. But we won’t do it this year."

In late February, Sheen checked into a rehabilitation clinic for what his rep said was a "preventive measure." When he got out earlier this month, Men appeared back on track because Sheen had taken the break during a built-in hiatus.

So much for best-laid plans. Shooting is expected to wrap in April. Sheen has pleaded not guilty to domestic violence charges involving wife Brooke Mueller, with a trial set for July 21.