Michael Weatherly will depart the long-running CBS drama “NCIS” at the end of this season.
Weatherly has played Special Agent Tony DiNozzo for 13 seasons. He confirmed the news in a series of tweets. “DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn’t have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons,” Weatherly wrote.
“Les Moonves & CBS gave me the opportunity of a lifetime,” he continued. “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 thanked Weatherly for his years on the show. In a statement to TheWrap, the network said, “After 13 years on NCIS, Michael Weatherly is leaving the show at the end of this season. 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 #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,” the statement concluded.
Before his stint on “NCIS,” Weatherly starred as Logan in the Fox series “Dark Angel,” which was an early starring vehicle for Jessica Alba.
TV Line first reported this news.