ONCE UPON A TIME: Rebecca Mader to Depart Series

There’s been a lot of news lately about ONCE UPON A TIME. First, Jennifer Morrison announced that she would be departing the show at the end of the season 6 finale and then ABC announced that it was renewing the show for a seventh season. But everything points to the show getting a series “reset” for season 7. We know that Lana Parrilla (Regina), Robert Carlyle (Mr. Gold) and Colin O’Donoghue (Captain Hook) will all be returning and two new characters will appear in the season 6 finale and carry on to season 7. But now Rebecca Mader (Zelena) has also announced that she will be departing the show.

To my Darling Pretties, First of all I would like to start by congratulating Adam, Eddie, Lana, Bobby and Colin on the pick up of Once Upon A Time! I am truly happy for you all and most importantly for the fans that will get to keep tuning in each week to see where they will take us. A lot of you have been asking if I will be joining everyone in Season 7, so I wanted to let you know personally that unfortunately I am not. This wasn't my choice but a creative decision of the shows that I totally respect and understand. The most important thing is that you all know how much you mean to me. I am told frequently both online and in person that by being a part of such a special show I have in some way changed someone's life. This is hugely meaningful to me. I am here to let you know that I am the one who has been changed. Not just by playing such a well written multi-dimensional character but by the fandom itself. I have heard your stories, your pain, your struggles, your achievements and I have truly felt you. I have learned. I have grown. I am a better person because of you, the fans and everyone that blessed me with this opportunity to play such an iconic role. Congrats all and thank you! I look forward to the next. I invite you to come with me on this journey. I am forever changed. And I'm wicked. And Wicked Always Wins. Forever yours, Bex ?

A post shared by Rebecca Mader (@bexmader) on May 11, 2017 at 11:19pm PDT