"Castle" star Stana Katic will not be returning to the series as Captain Kate Beckett -- should it return to ABC for a ninth season.

The 37-year-old Katic is set to leave the show at the end of the current season, meaning that if the series survives it will go on with Castle (Nathan Fillion) solving crimes without the benefit of having the assistance of his better half.

"Kate Beckett has been a beloved character on our hit series 'Castle' for the past 8 years," show officials said in a statement. "We are grateful for Stana Katic's talent and dedication to the series and we hope to continue our relationship."

Beckett Thanks all her Fans

Katic later released her own statement where she opined, "Rather than distract from what was an amazing experience, I would just like to say that I'm very grateful to ABC for giving me the opportunity to be a part of a much beloved show. Thank you to the fans."

Over the years, Katic and Fillion have thrilled fans as one of TV's most dynamic and popular duos. Speculation is now mounting over how producers may choose to end her storyline, particularly if the show returns for another season.

It the series does return, rumors are it will do so for a reduced 13-episode season. Word is the studio has already held some talks with Fillion about returning next season. Both Fillion and Katic inked one-year deals to return to the show last season. Beyond the release of her aforementioned statement, Katic has remained mum about her departure.

Tamala Jones Also out as Lanie Parish

Meanwhile, Deadline is also reporting that original cast member Tamala Jones is also out as medical examiner Lanie Parish, who also happens to be one of Beckett's closest friends.

"There's stuff up in the air, so we are trying to leave it in a very dynamic way which leaves open the possibility that maybe the show won't come back in the same form next season," show-runner Alexi Hawley previously told reporters.

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