Michael Weatherly confirmed on Tuesday a rumor fans hoped against hope wasn’t true. The actor known for his role as Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo on CBS’s NCIS is leaving the show.

CBS issued a statement about Michael Weatherly’s impending departure.

“After 13 years on NCIS, Michael Weatherly is leaving the show at the end of this season,” the statement reads. “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.”

“We thank Michael for all of his contributions to this successful franchise,” the statement continues, “and look forward to continuing to develop projects with him as part of our ongoing development deal.”

Michael Weatherly responded to reports about his upcoming depature via Twitter.

DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons pic.twitter.com/GR7YSsmsKJ

— Michael Weatherly (@M_Weatherly) January 5, 2016

Les Moonves & CBS gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. pic.twitter.com/eqF5y6GSNw

— Michael Weatherly (@M_Weatherly) January 5, 2016

I will miss the amazing crew & cast, who are like family to me, & to the fans all over the world – THANK YOU, it’s been a fantastic ride!

— Michael Weatherly (@M_Weatherly) January 5, 2016

It was Michael Weatherly’s costar, David McCallum (Ducky), who allegedly let the cat out of its proverbial bag about the actor’s end-of-season departure. During an interview with Vulture Hound magazine, he let word slip.

“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.

In addition to Michael Weatherly and David McCallum, NCIS stars Mark Harmon, Pauley Perrette, and Sean Murray.

Weatherly’s departure will mark the second blow to fans’ hearts in two years. When Cote de Pablo, who played the role of Ziva David, left the show in 2013, viewers’ hearts ached for Tony DiNozzo.

Can NCIS continue without Special Agent Tony DiNozzo?

Are you shocked that Michael Weatherly is kissing this fabulous role goodbye?