TOWIE'S Gatsby, aka Liam Blackwell, has quit the show after an action-packed seven years.
The reality regular, 34, amassed thousand of fans during his seven years on the ITV2 series - but is now ready for a change.
Sharing a montage of his time on the programme, he wrote: "After 7 years I have decided to leave TOWIE and leave Essex permanently, to start a new life in Los Angeles.
"There have been many different factors in making my decision but the main ones are that I am ready for this next chapter of my life and I’m looking forward to starting an exciting new career in real estate.
"TOWIE has been a major part of my life and I am sad to be leaving but I am also extremely grateful for every moment. I have experienced highs and lows and ups and downs over the years, but those moments, no matter how challenging, have defined me and made me the person I am today."
Gatsby thanked ITV as well as the cast and crew from TOWIE for making his experience on the show "so enjoyable and unforgettable".
He continued: "I will never forget this era of my life and I am so lucky to have made so many memories on the show, all of those memories will last forever."
With feuds, flings and unceremonious break-ups, Gatsby often found himself at the centre of the drama on the much-loved show.
Addressing his performance, he said: "There have been times when I needed putting back into my place and you definitely told me when I needed a telling off but I’m also grateful that you’ve been so supportive and you’ve been able to watch me grow and been so encouraging. Hope I’ve kept you entertained over the years!"
He concluded: "I hope you will all continue to be with me on this journey in the next stage of my life because this is when I need the support the most. I’m apprehensive about the next chapter but I am also so excited for what lies ahead.
"Goodbye Towie. End of an era."
Gatsby's post was met with a flurry of support from his TOWIE pals with Georgia Kousoulou writing: "End of an era [heart emoji] good times we had , memories will last forever ! Good luck gats xxx."
While Amber Dowding gushed: "Oh Gatsby!!! Good luck [heart emoji] so many good memories! Here’s to your new chapter, so excited for you xx."
