Grantchester star Tom Brittney is set to leave fans heartbroken tonight (January 8) as he exits the hit ITV drama.
The actor has played Grantchester’s Reverend Will Davenport since 2019, replacing James Norton's Reverend Sidney Chambers.
However, Brittney has now decided to leave his dog collar behind as the show reaches season nine.
Chatting on Wednesday’s episode of This Morning, Brittney confessed he had a tearful day on set when filming his final scenes.
Related: Grantchester's new character teased ahead of season 9 release
Brittney explained how emotional he felt while shooting his Grantchester exit scenes alongside his co-star Robson Green.
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"It was very emotional," he said. "I mean, there was no acting required for that at all.
"We kept crying before we were shooting and were like 'No, save it. Save it for the take'. But, yeah, it was heartbreaking."
Related: Grantchester renewed for season 10
Explaining his decision to leave the show, Brittney said: "I had done five series and it was the best time of my life, but every good thing has to come to an end.
"I thought Will’s journey had come to an end and it was time for some new blood."
The "new blood" stepping up to play Grantchester’s newest vicar, Alphy Kottaram, is former Hollyoaks star Rishi Nair.
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Nair said he feels nervous to be taking over as the new lead in such a popular show.
"Big shoes to fill," he remarked. "I didn't want to be the vicar that came on and then cancelled the show."
However, Brittney assured the newcomer: "I had the same fear as you when I took over from James Norton. I thought, 'Oh, I'm going to tank the show'."
Grantchester season 9 premieres January 8 at 9pm on ITV1. Seasons 1-8 of Grantchester are available to stream on ITVX.
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