CBSNCIS fans, you're going to need to sit down for this one: Michael Weatherly is leaving the series after 13 years.
It's true. We'll pause for you to grab some tissues or something. Ready to move on?
The actor confirmed reports of his exit, Tweeting, "DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons." He also shared his gratitude for the cast, crew and dedicated fans who made his experience great, writing, "I will miss the amazing crew & cast, who are like family to me, & to the fans all over the world - THANK YOU, it's been a fantastic ride!"
CBS confirmed his departure in a statement to E! News, saying, "He is a valued part of the CBS family, and the immense charm and talent he brings to the screen as 'Very' Special Agent Tony DiNozzo has helped make NCIS what it is today—the No. 1 drama in the world. We thank Michael for all of his contributions to this successful franchise and look forward to continuing to develop projects with him as part of our ongoing development deal."
There's a bright side to the bad news, though—sort of—Weatherly is staying on through the end of the current season, so you still have several more episodes of DiNozzo to enjoy. Plus, he is still working with the network as part of the aforementioned development deal, so he's not leaving TV for good.
Now, the question is: Will he find Ziva so they can ride off into the sunset and live happily ever after? Or maybe Cote de Pablo can return for his final episode, George Clooney/ER-style. Either way, start getting emotionally prepared now, because this one's gonna be a heartbreaker.