James Spader is leaving "The Office" early.

The network confirmed the Emmy-winning actor isn't going to return for a ninth season of the NBC series, a decision made at the actor's behest.

"James always wanted this to be a one-year arc, and he now leaves us having created one of the most enigmatic and dynamic characters in television," said "Office" executive producer Paul Lieberstein. "He's been a great friend to me and the show, helping us successfully transition into the post-Michael Scott years, and I'm grateful for that."

Spader was brought in full-time last September as the enigmatic CEO Robert California after a memorable turn in the previous season's star-studded finale. Though deemed a series regular, his contract called for him to appear in a minimum of 15 episodes, with an option for more if necessary.

Spader stepped into "Office" during a season that marked the series first without star Steve Carell, though he wasn't replacing Carell. He was taking over for Kathy Bates, who previously played CEO before going off to anchor another NBC series, "Harry's Law."

Unknown is whether Spader's character will be written out of the show this season or whether his departure will be explained next year.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118050772

I won't miss James Spader. I'd like to see Kathy Bates return as Jo Bennet.

Well that was a F*cking waste of time and my eyesight. This season makes no sense at all

Well that was a F*cking waste of time and my eyesight. This season makes no sense at all


Why Sol?

Why Sol?

Because I was a fan of his character

I don't watch The Office but I'm surprised to hear that James Spader is leaving so soon.

I have really enjoyed this season, and frankly I do not miss the Michael Scott character at all. I like shows that are an ensamble piece. The focus is now more shared equally with the other players, all of whom I like (except that the show needs to give Creed more lines, but I have been bitching about that on forums for eight years)

Problem was with the Spader character is that he had nothing to do. He was the CEO of Sabre/Dunder Mifflin which meant in real life he would be at the company headquarters in Florida instead of being in Scranton all the time. The CEO is not going to be in the same branch, Dunder Mifflin has several branches plus whatever Sabre does in Florida.

My guess is that Harry's Law is going to be cancelled (which sucks because I liked the series) and Kathy Bates is going to go back to "The Office" at least as a recurring character.

Yeah I don't think we ever saw the CEO at Scranton when Michael was on the show