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'Private Practice' scoop: Chris Lowell not returning for season 4
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This season on "Private Practice," Chris Lowell's character Dell hasn't had an easy ride. His daughter, Betsey, was left motherless after his wife Heather was killed in a meth-lab explosion.Now, sources close to the show tell Zap2it that Lowell will not be returning to the show for Season 4. Is it possible that Betsey will be orphaned in the May 13 finale?
Lowell's episode order for Season 3 was cut back from 22 to a minimum of 13 episodes, though he did remain a series regular. Because his appearances on the show have been intermittent at best, it's not surprising to learn that he's being phased out for a more permanent absence. Lowell "will be leaving the show after Season 3 and has no plans to return for Season 4," our source says.
ABC reps couldn't be reached for comment Sunday (May 2).
According to our source, Lowell is not unhappy with the decision. Being released from his "Private Practice" contract means Lowell is free to relocate to New York City and pursue other projects.
He's not the only regular cast member searching for an exit sign. "A couple of cast members are looking to get out of their contracts," says our source, citing Audra McDonald as an example. "They aren't happy on the show." We may have another "Grey's Anatomy" on our hands.
There's no word on the circumstances of Dell's departure from Oceanside Wellness, but sources confirm that a "favorite character will die in the season finale." Could the "Private Practice" team really kill off Dell and leave Betsey without any parents at all?
Update: Reps for ABC have no comment.
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I hope they can find a way to let him leave without dying.. Betsey's had a hard enough life as it is! I want Violet to die and let Pete, Addison and Lucas be a happy little family. But, you know, Shonda is a sadistic jerk and will run this show in the ground just like she did Grey's.
In what universe is Dell a favorite character? If he was he wouldn't be allowed out of his contract.
If Dell is killed off that will be a total anti-climax.
Hope Violet is the dead one.
Dell will get injured in some crazy accident, much like George O'Malley. He will come into the hospital looking nothing like himself and they will be shocked to find out that it is him. I think Addison will be left with Betsy.
This sucks. I thought it would be Naomi or Cooper who bit it in the finale. My Thursday 10PM slot just opened up.
Personally he is the only reason I watch the show. I just love him. George O Mally was my favorite character as well. If they kill him off I will seriously be mad. I won't watch the show. Ever.
I think Shonda is about to ruin the show like she did it with Grey's (because it isnt watchable anymore). She kills the best characters or make them leave. But we have this "so perfect" most boring relationship with Derek and Meredith. Why not kill Meredith instead?? I'd vote for it.
I'm sorry for the fans that like this show, but it is probably the worst scripted show on television. This is the first show that I have stopped watching mid-season because of the completely stupid dialog and story lines of these infantile doctors who can't stay out of each others beds. Completely stupid show.
I watch this show for Kate Walsh but her talents are wasted on it. I don't think it will be on air much longer, it's amazing it has lasted this long.
Shame he'll be leaving... Hope Ms. McDonald won't be leaving, too !!