Special Agent Anthony "Tony" DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) will leave NCIS once the series wraps its thirteenth season later this year.

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Speculation of Weatherly's departure began to surface when the actor found himself dealing with some issues with the law.

To add fuel to that fiery speculation, Weatherly's NCIS costar David McCallum, the portrayer of Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard, revealed in an interview with United Kingdom publication Vulture Hound on Monday that the character DiNozzo would definitely be leaving in some way by the end of the current season.

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McCallum was asked about his character's future, but let slip that Weatherly's departing from the show.

"Well that's trying to write a show that hasn't happened yet! We're going to finish shooting this season at the end of April, and DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly, we've told people a long time ago, is leaving at the end of the season. So the writers have to decide what to do when one of the four members of the original cast leaves," he said.

McCallum, Weatherly, Mark Harmon (Gibbs in the series) and Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto in the series) are the original cast members.

Weatherly took to Twitter on Tuesday confirming his eventual departure from the series.

"DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons," the actor revealed while sharing a photo of himself on set at NCIS HQ.

He also shared a snap with Perrette while thanking CBS and its president, Leslie Moonves for "the opportunity of a lifetime."

"I will miss the amazing crew & cast, who are like family to me," Weatherly dished, adding much thanks to the worldwide fandom, too.

E! News shared a statement CBS released to further confirm his eventual split from the series. "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," the statement noted, adding, "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."

So, while it's bittersweet that DiNozzo won't be around for a potential fourteenth season, Weatherly will still be involved with CBS.

Furthermore, we are curious how you think DiNozzo's departure will pan out; take our poll below and let us know what you're thinking!

How will Michael Weatherly exit 'NCIS' as Tony DiNozzo at end of this season?


NCIS airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

Tags: NCIS television CBS Michael Weatherly