Anna Faris exits her leading role on CBS comedy Mom ahead of Season 8

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

CBS' Mom has lost one of its leading ladies after Anna Faris announced that she's exiting the show ahead of its eighth season. According to sources close to the matter, Faris is looking to pursue other opportunities and feels as though she's had a great seven-year run as a part of the cast. Her character, Christy, will not be recast, and writers plan to address her exit as a part of the show. While Faris' decision might feel a tad abrupt, production on the upcoming season doesn't start until September 14.

"The past seven years on Mom have been some of the most fulfilling and rewarding of my career," said Faris. "I'm so thankful to Chuck, the writers, and my amazing castmates for creating a truly wonderful work experience. While my journey as Christy has come to an end, allowing me to pursue new opportunities, I'll be watching next season and rooting for my TV family."

For the past several seasons, Mom, starring Anna Faris (THE HOUSE BUNNY, JUST FRIENDS) and Allison Janney (JUNO, THE HOURS), has revolved around Christy, a newly sober, single mom trying to pull her life together in Napa Valley while dealing with wayward mother, Bonnie (Janney).

"From the inception of Mom, Anna was the first and only choice for the role of Christy," said Warner Bros TV and Chuck Lorre Productions in a statement. "We are so proud of the stories we have been able to tell during Anna's seven years with us. We wish Anna all the best, and we thank her for her beautiful portrayal."

Other key actors who've grown to become a part of Mom's ensemble cast, such as Mimi Kennedy, Jamie Pressly, Beth Hall, William Fitchner, and Kristen Johnston are set to return for the show's eighth season.