Los Angeles, Jan 6 (IANS) Actor Michael Weatherly, one of the original stars on the popular police procedural drama TV series "NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service", is leaving the show after 13 years, CBS has announced.
After 13 years on 'NCIS', Michael Weatherly is leaving the show at the end of this season," read a statement released by the network, reports aceshowbiz.com.
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 number one 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 further said.
Weatherly also took to Twitter to confirm his departure from the show.
He wrote: "DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character and I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons. Les Moonves and CBS gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. I will miss the amazing crew and cast, who are like family to me, and to the fans all over the world - Thank You, it's been a fantastic ride."
Weatherly has been on the show since the first episode.
