'Days of Our Lives' Star Kate Mansi Confirms Exit: 'This Was Not a Decision I Took Lightly'
Days of Our Lives star Kate Mansi confirmed that she will be leaving the long-running soap via Instagram on Wednesday.
“I’ve kept quiet as long as I could, but since it seems news has leaked, I feel I owe it to you all to set the record straight,” Mansi captioned her headshot. “Alright… here it is: After much thought, I’ve decided the timing was right for me to set sail from Salem.”
PHOTOS: Ten Top Actors Who Started on Soaps
The 27-year-old actress joined the soap in 2011, starring as Abigail Deveraux, the daughter of Jack Deveraux and Jennifer Horton, one of the show’s popular power couples. The role was previously played by Pretty Little Liars star Ashley Benson.
“I must say that I have thoroughly enjoyed every single beautiful and messy moment of being Abigail, and will always treasure our time together,” Mansi continued. “I want to be very clear in saying that this was not a decision I took lightly. It was important for me to see Abigail through the most recent storyline, as well as through the show's historic 50th anniversary celebration. I can confidently say that I poured everything I had into Abigail, especially this last year, and cannot wait for you to see what's coming!”
TV: What It's Really Like to Work on 'Days of Our Lives'
The actress, who is next set to star in the upcoming thriller Muse, ended her message by thanking her castmates, the Days of Our Lives crew, and the show’s diehard fans.
“I also want to express how very proud I am to have had the privilege of being a part of this incredibly hard-working daytime community for the past five years,” she wrote. “I am grateful beyond measure to the DOOL family, which I feel extends beyond our set, to you, the amazing, and unwavering fans. I thank you for all the support and love you've shown Abigail and me.”
WATCH: 'Days of Our Lives' Commemorates 50 Years by Becoming Part of the Smithsonian