Daniel Ezra will not return as a regular cast member for season 7

Ser Baffo/The CW

After six seasons as the star of “All American,” Daniel Ezra is retiring. The actor will not return to the sports drama as a regular in Season 7, although CW says he will remain an “integral part” of the franchise through guest appearances.

The news comes after the airing of the 13th episode of season 6 on Monday night. In the episode, titled “Victory Lap,” Spencer (Ezra) is drafted into the NFL, followed by a time jump that places him at the Super Bowl and shows his engagement to Olivia (Samantha Logan). The final two episodes of season 6 follow Spencer and Olivia as they plan their wedding.

The decision was made by Ezra and showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll before production on Season 6 began.

“After making the difficult decision to leave ‘All American,’ my sole focus was to complete the journey of the most life-affirming character I’ve ever played in the way he deserves,” Ezra said in a statement. “Thanks to Nkechi and the writers, my wish has come true. Season 6 is ‘Spencer’s Farewell.’ I will miss him. I will miss our cast and crew. I hope he was as much fun to watch as he was to play.”

“Working with Daniel Ezra over the past six seasons to bring Spencer’s story to life has been an incredibly fulfilling experience,” said Caroll. “Daniel is truly a gift and has given so much to the character on and off the field. And while Spencer has gone on to achieve his NFL dreams, I’m grateful that Daniel will continue to be an important part of this family, both on and off camera, as we enter a new, exciting chapter of ‘All American.'”

Not only has Ezra been a part of All American since Season 1, but he has also directed several episodes, including the 100th episode, “100%,” which aired on May 27.

“All American” is from Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Studios and is the CW’s most-watched series. Executive producers include Carroll, Greg Berlanti, Jameal Turner, Sarah Schechter, Mike Herro and David Strauss.