Now that it's known for certain Michael Weatherly will be leaving "NCIS" after 13 seasons, the burning question has become how should he leave?

TV Line reports Weatherly is slated to make his final series appearance as Special Agent Tony DiNozzo at the end of the season, but the internet is already abuzz over what should come of his character.

"After 13 years on NCIS, Michael Weatherly is leaving the show at the end of this season," CBS executives said in a statement that didn't offer a clue as to whether or not Weatherly's character might be killed off like fellow original cast member Sasha Alexander (Kate Todd) previously was. "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."

Since Alexander's exit, show execs made the choice to have Agent Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) resign from the agency when she recently left the series. Though DiNozzo frantically tried talking her out of it, David later moved back to her Israeli homeland.

DiNozzo's pending departure now leaves Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs), Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto) and David McCallum (Ducky Mallard) as the only series originals still remaining with the cast.

Though DiNozzo will be exiting, Weatherly won't be parting ways with the network entirely. In a statement, CBS officials reminded fans that Weatherly still has a deal with the network to produce a series of new shows.

"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 added.

"NCIS" Season 13 airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST on CBS. The show also stars Rocky Carroll (Leon Vance) and Sean Murray (Timothy McGee).

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