Netflix officially renewed The Kominsky Method for a third and final season earlier this year, but when the show returns, it will be without one of its major stars. Deadline has reported that Alan Arkin, who stars in the series alongside Michael Douglas, will not be returning for the final season of the series.
The outlet reports that Alan Arkin made the choice not to continue beyond the second season of The Kominsky Method some time ago, but that his choice wasn't reflected in the season two finale as they weren't sure whether or not they'd be back for a third season at the time. The Kominsky Method follows once successful actor Sandy Kominsky (Michael Douglas) and his longtime friend/agent Norman Newlander (Alan Arkin) as they navigate the ups and downs of life with humour, dignity, and some prostate trouble – reminding us that some friendships never get old. It's not clear just how Norman will be written out of the show, but his departure will obviously be addressed in the new season. Alan Arkin earned two Emmy Award and two Golden Globe nominations for his work on the series. In a statement when the series was renewed for a third and final season, creator Chuck Lorre said, "The Kominsky Method has been a true passion project for me and it’s been an incredible experience to see the warm response from both audiences and critics. I’m excited to wrap up the story with this final chapter."