James Scott has ended his eight-year run on Days of Our Lives.

The actor and NBC both confirmed yesterday that Scott is exiting the series on which he's starred as EJ DiMera.

"We are saddened but supportive of James Scott’s decision to leave... to take some personal time and pursue new projects," NBC said in a statement. "His contribution to the show has been tremendous and we wish him the best always."

Soap Opera Digest broke this casting news and wrote that Scott taped his final scenes on Friday. They will air throughout the fall.

Via his own statement, the actor extended “a heartfelt thank you to NBC, Sony and Corday [Productions], particularly Ken Corday… for graciously supporting me in my decision…. To the unbelievably loving fans, I can’t begin to express my gratitude for your love and support."

In January, Alison Sweeney announced her own departure from Days of Our Lives.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.