Fox's medical drama "House M.D." will end its run after its current eighth season.
In a joint announcement, executive producers David Shore and Katie Jacobs and series star Hugh Laurie said, "After much deliberation, the producers of 'House M.D.' have decided that this season of the show, the 8th, should be the last. By April this year they will have completed 177 episodes, which is about 175 more than anyone expect.
"The producers have always imagined House as an enigmatic creature; he should never be the last one to leave the party," the statement continues. "How much better to disappear before the music stops, while there is still some promise and mystique in the air."
In a separate statement, Fox president of entertainment Kevin Reilly said, "While it’s with much regret, and a lump in our throats, we respect the decision Hugh, David and Katie have made."
