Last night on Ghost Hunters, co-lead investigator, Grant Wilson, announced that he was departing from the show.

Of the departure, Wilson said, “It is with mixed emotion that I am announcing my departure from the cast of Ghost Hunters. While paranormal investigating has always been and will remain a passion for me, after enjoying nearly eight successful seasons on television, I have made the decision to leave the series in order to focus on other aspects of my personal life.

I will deeply miss working with Jason and the rest of the dedicated investigators and crew that have become like family, and I wish them all the best as they continue to follow their passion and realize the vision of TAPS.

I will also miss interacting with our wonderful fans worldwide. You are all at the heart of what we do on Ghost Hunters, and I’m grateful to have gotten to know many of you over the years.

Thank you to Syfy and Pilgrim Studios for giving me the opportunity to do what I love for nearly eight years, and for supporting this difficult decision.”

Wilson’s depature announcement came as quite a shock to fans, but an announcement had been teased had been teased by the cast and crew for about a week.

After his announcement, Wilson took to Twitter to let everyone know that his departure wasn’t anything negative and his fans need not worry.

Jason Hawes, TAPS co-founder, and co-lead investigator with Wilson, had the following to say:

“When Grant and I founded TAPS nearly 20 years ago, we never imagined that we would be able to make such an impact just by doing what we enjoy every day. I will miss working with Grant on a daily basis, and am indebted to the level of dedication and expertise he has brought to our field.

I can’t imagine having a better partner through it all – both on the show and off. Grant and I, along with our spouses and children, are all like one big family. While I fully support his decision to move on from the series, this longtime friendship – as well as our business partnership – will continue off-camera for years to come.”

Are you a fan of the show? What do you think about Grant’s depature? Let us know in the comments.