'Days of Our Lives' Casting Spoiler: James Scott to Quit, Alison Sweeney to Exit after 21 Years

Fans of "Days of Lives" were shocked when their favorite actor James Scott announced his departure from the show. The actor who plays the role of EJ DiMera in the popular daytime series of NBC is calling it quits after being in the show for eight long years.

"We are saddened but supportive of James Scott's decision to leave the show after eight years to take some personal time and pursue new projects," said NBC/Corday Productions in a statement to Soap Opera Digest. "His contribution to the show has been tremendous and we wish him the best always."

"I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to NBC, Sony and Corday, particularly Ken Corday, for the amazing 8 year run on 'Days of our Lives' and for graciously supporting me in my decision in leaving the show to take personal time. To the unbelievably loving fans, I can't begin to express my gratitude for your love and support over the years. I will miss you immensely," Scott said about his descion to leave the show.

Scott played the pivotal role of DiMera, who is the son of a crime mafia based out of Salem city. In the serial his romantic interest is played by Alison Sweeney, who portrays the role of Sami Brady.

Meanwhile, Sweeney has also planned to exit the show and told Ellen DeGeneras in January that she will end her association with the show after 21 years.

"I've been on "Days of Our Lives" for 21 years. I'm celebrating my 21st year and I decided that it's going to be my last year with the show," Sweeney told DeGeneres, reported NewYork Daily.

[ED:VS]