‘Glee’ Season 5: Jayma Mays to Depart Series
Though 'Glee' still has plenty of work ahead in dealing with the death of actor Cory Monteith, in addition to already scaling back a number of roles, it seems yet another actor from the FOX musical dramedy has begun the process of an official exit from the series. Recurring series star Jayma Mays has officially confirmed her departure as high school counselor/love interest Emma Pillsbury, but how long into season 5 will the character remain?
Mays first confirmed the news to Access Hollywood at the recent 'Smurfs 2' premiere, flatly stating, "this is going to be my last season." The character of Emma Pillsbury had been somewhat marginalized in recent seasons, save for a few wedding headaches this past year, while in real life Mays will be replacing 'Always Sunny' star Mary Elizabeth Ellis on CBS' upcoming Will Arnett comedy 'The Millers.'
As for how 'Glee' will proceed with its multiple changes heading into season 5, Mays only offered, “I’m finishing up this season, so I’m not sure what direction and who’s coming on and who’s not.” Apart from Mays, longtime series stars Heather Morris, Mark Salling, Amber Riley and Harry Shum, Jr. stepped down as regulars, while Melissa Benoist (Marley), Jacob Artist (Jake), Becca Tobin (Kitty) and ‘The Glee Project‘ alumni Blake Jenner and Alex Newell were promoted as such. ‘American Idol‘ runner-up Adam Lambert was announced to join the cast, but it remains to be seen in what role or for how long.
Well, what say you? Are you disappointed 'Glee' has another departing cast member? How should the series reinvent itself going forward?