Say goodbye to unconventional bedside manner on TV, because Dr. Gregory House is done. The producers of the popular medical drama "House" announced Wednesday that the show will end after its current season.
"The decision to end the show now, or ever, is a painful one, as it risks putting asunder hundreds of close friendships that have developed over the last eight years -- but also because the show itself has been a source of great pride to everyone involved," executive producers David Shore, Katie Jacobs and Hugh Laurie said in a joint statement. "The producers have always imagined House as an enigmatic creature; he should never be the last one to leave the party. How much better to disappear before the music stops, while there is still some promise and mystique in the air."
Laurie has played the title character since the show debuted in 2004.
When the drama ends after this current eighth season, it will have completed 177 episodes, which, as the producers joked in their statement, "is about 175 more than anyone expected" when the show launched.
The network also chimed in with a farewell. "While it's with much regret, and a lump in our throats, we respect the decision Hugh, David and Katie have made," Fox Entertainment's president, Kevin Reilly, said in a statement. "For eight seasons, the entire HOUSE team has given us – and fans around the world – some of the most compelling characters and affecting stories ever seen on television. They have been creatively tenacious and collaborative throughout this incredible run, and they are amongst the most superior talents in the business. For all the above, we wholeheartedly thank them, and the fans who have supported the show."
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