Paget Brewster's calling it a day at "Criminal Minds" … again. For the second time during her stint on the CBS crime drama, the actress is leaving the series.
"After six wonderful years playing Emily Prentiss, I have decided it's time for me to move on," Brewster said in a statement. "As much as I will miss my 'CM' family, I am excited about the future and other opportunities."
"Criminal Minds" executive producer Erica Messer said in her own statement, "We were all sad to hear the news, but we respect and support any decision Paget wants to make. Personally, I'm a huge fan and will continue to be one wherever she goes."
CBS has not yet announced a date for Brewster's final episode.
Brewster, who joined the series in its second season, left briefly during season six, but returned when it was revealed that Prentiss had faked her death. The show is now in its seventh season.
Brewster's departure is the latest in a string of cast change-ups throughout "Criminal Minds'" history. Original star Mandy Patinkin left the series in the third season, and was replaced by Joe Mantegna; original cast member Lola Glaudini left after two seasons; and AJ Cook, another original cast member, was let go for budgetary reasons during season six, but returned for the current season.
Brewster, who filmed an NBC comedy pilot with Donald Sutherland -- "My Life As an Experiment" -- that failed to make the network's schedule last year, is also known for her role as the girl who briefly came between BFFs Joey and Chandler on "Friends," as well as for her voice work on animated series like "American Dad!" and "Dan Vs."
