Captain Victoria Gates is exiting 12th Precinct. Penny Johnson Jerald is no longer part of “Castle” team, becoming the first -- and the probably the only -- casualty of the creative change that has taken place after "Castle" Season 7. ABC has confirmed that Jerald will not be returning to reprise her role as Captain Gates in “Castle” Season 8.

The actress has expressed her sadness and surprise at the news. She posted on her Twitter feed, “To my Castle fans around the world, as of late yesterday I am surprised and saddened to learn that I will no longer be a part of the Castle family. Thank you all for your support and love. Hugs from PJJ.”

It is not yet clear why Captain Gates will no longer be part of the show. There are speculations that Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) may get promoted as Captain of the 12th precinct in “Castle” Season 8. It was revealed in the Season 7 finale that she has passed the Captain exam. She also received the offer to run for the New York senate.

Before ABC officially confirmed Season 8 of the show, there was much suspense surrounding the future of “Castle.” And most of the actors’ contracts were up for renewal after Season 7. Nathan Fillion, who plays the titular role of “Castle,” was the first to sign on his new one–year contact while his co-star Katic confirmed her return to the show only after Season 7 wrapped.

In addition to Fillion and Katic, Jon Huertas, who plays Esposito, Seamus Dever, who plays Ryan, and Tamala Jones, who plays Lanie, are expected to return to 12th Precinct. Replying to Jerald’s Twitter post, Huertas said that he is also surprised and saddened by the news. He added that she will be always part of the family.

As previously reported, Alexi Hawley and Terence Paul Winter are set to serve as the new co-showrunners of “Castle.” They are taking over the reins from David Amann who quit the show after serving as the showrunner for one season. “Castle” creator Andrew Marlowe is also no longer associated with the show.

You may write to the writer at a.shrivastava@IBTimes.com.au, with your comments and feedback.

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