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Rebecca Mader Leaving 'Once Upon a Time,' Says It's Not Her Decision

Rebecca Mader Leaving 'Once Upon a Time,' Says It's Not Her Decision

Rebecca Mader has announced that she is leaving Once Upon a Time after the current sixth season, even though she would like to continue with the show.

The 40-year-old actress, who has played Zelena/The Wicked Witch of the West since season three, says it wasn’t her decision to leave the show.

Jennifer Morrison has already announced that she is not returning and Josh Dallas and Ginnifer Goodwin are also expected to depart. The only confirmed cast members for season seven right now are Lana Parrilla (Regina), Robert Carlyle (Mr. Gold), and Colin O’Donoghue (Captain Hook).

“To my Darling Pretties, First of all I would like to start by congratulating Adam [Horowitz], Eddie [Kitsis], Lana, Bobby and Colin on the pick up of Once Upon A Time! I am truly happy for you all and most importantly for the fans that will get to keep tuning in each week to see where they will take us,” Rebecca wrote in a letter to fans on Instagram.

“A lot of you have been asking if I will be joining everyone in Season 7, so I wanted to let you know personally that unfortunately I am not. This wasn’t my choice but a creative decision of the shows that I totally respect and understand,” she continued.

Click inside to read the rest of Rebecca Mader’s letter to fans…

“The most important thing is that you all know how much you mean to me. I am told frequently both online and in person that by being a part of such a special show I have in some way changed someone’s life. This is hugely meaningful to me,” Rebecca said. “I am here to let you know that I am the one who has been changed. Not just by playing such a well written multi-dimensional character but by the fandom itself. I have heard your stories, your pain, your struggles, your achievements and I have truly felt you. I have learned. I have grown. I am a better person because of you, the fans and everyone that blessed me with this opportunity to play such an iconic role.”

“Congrats all and thank you! I look forward to the next. I invite you to come with me on this journey,” she concluded. “I am forever changed. And I’m wicked. And Wicked Always Wins. Forever yours, Bex �’�.”

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