Fox's Lethal Weapon TV series experienced a shakeup earlier this year when Clayne Crawford, who played Martin Riggs, was fired from the series due to his disruptive on-set behavior and was replaced by Sean William Scott. Then, a little over a week ago, Damon Wayans surprised everyone by saying that he would also be leaving the series at the end of the year. "I’m going to be quitting the show in December after we finish the initial 13," Wayans said. "So I really don’t know what they’re planning, but that’s what I’m planning. I’m a 58-year-old diabetic and I’m working 16-hour days… I’m done. Like Murtaugh said, 'I’m too old for this'" According to Deadline, that announcement came as a surprise not only to fans, but also to the studio and producers as well, who he hadn't told before dropping that particular bombshell.
Aftering speaking with the producers and coming to an agreement which would help adjust the shooting schedule in order reduce his workload as well as bringing in special diabetic meals, 20th Century Fox has picked up Lethal Weapon for an additional two episodes which Damon Wayans will appear in. The actor's choice to leave the series has nothing to do with his new co-star Sean William Scott, who sources say has a great relationship with Wayans on set, but more to do with his health as well as spending time with his family.
This has been very hard, especially last week, my mother had surgery, my daughter had surgery, and I had to look them both in the eye and say, 'I can't be there.' It’s hard for me to play this loving, supportive father, husband, and friend on TV and be the guy in life who’s telling everybody, ‘I can’t, I’ve got to work.'
Despite Damon Wayans' announcement, Deadline hears that he may not throw in the towel just yet and is entertaining a return should Fox renew Lethal Weapon for a fourth season.