Once Upon a Time Might Be in Trouble As Jennifer Morrison Reveals She’s Quit the Show
It looks like there may not be a happily-ever-after when it comes to Once Upon a Time. While we’re still reeling over the shows that have definitely been canceled this season — not to mention the fact that we’re still biting our nails over the shows that haven’t received a renewal notice, which means they *might* get the axe — things are seemingly totally dire for our fave fairy-tale-based series, as Jennifer Morrison has just revealed that she’s quit the show.
Morrison’s character Emma Swan has remained an integral part of the story since the series began back in 2011, and is undeniably a favorite of many hard-core fans. That’s why it may be hard to imagine the series even attempting to continue after she’s now scheduled to leave after season six.
The 38-year-old actress took to Instagram to share the news directly with fans, saying, “As I reached the end of my 6 year contract on ONCE UPON A TIME, I was faced with a significant decision. ABC, Eddy Kitsis, and Adam Horowitz very generously invited me to continue as a series regular. After very careful consideration, I have decided that creatively and personally, it is time for me to move on.”
She continued, “Emma Swan is one my favorite characters that I have ever played. My 6 years on ONCE UPON A TIME has changed my life in the most beautiful ways. I am absolutely blown away by the passion and commitment of the Oncer fans. I am so honored to have been a central part of such a special show. … As I move on to other creative endeavors, I will continue to attend the fan conventions whenever my professional schedule allows. I always look forward to meeting the fans.” So, at least there’s that.
As for her departure (as well as the future of the show itself), Morrison addressed that by saying, “If ABC Network does in fact order a season 7, I have agreed to appear in one episode, and I will most certainly continue to watch ONCE UPON A TIME. The creativity of the show runners has always inspired me, and I cannot wait to see the ways that they continue to develop and reinvent the show. #Onceuponatime #EmmaSwan #UglyDucklings.”
With Morrison’s exit following co-stars Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas, we can’t help but wonder if Once Upon a Time will be able to last much longer. Or perhaps it’s time to end the final chapter of this fairy tale.
Are you sad to find out that Jennifer Morrison is leaving Once Upon a Time? Let us know @BritandCo!
(h/t Movie Pilot; photos via Brad Barket/Getty, ABC)