Producers of House, the TV medical drama that has captivated millions of viewers with its enigmatic but troubled and cantankerous lead character, announced late Wednesday that season 8 will mark its end. 

The show's producers, David Shore, Katie Jacobs and Hugh Laurie, who also stars as Dr. Gregory House, said in a released statement that the final episode will air in May.

"The decision to end the show now, or ever, is a painful one . . . because the show itself has been a source of great pride to everyone involved," they said. House is one of TV's highest rated and most watched weekly shows.

The series, on the air since 2004, will end with 177 episodes.

"While it's with much regret, and a lump in our throats, we respect the decision Hugh, David and Katie have made," said Kevin Reilly, president of entertainment at Fox Broadcasting Company.

The producers alluded to the nostalgia they hope fans will hold on to."If the show lives on somewhere, with somebody, as a fond memory, then that is a precious feat of which we will always be proud," they said.

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