Copyright 2010 Cliff Lipson / CBS
When "CSI: NY" returns this fall, it will be missing one of its top stars.
ET can confirm that Melina Kanakaredes, who plays Stella Bonasera, announced today that she will depart the series.
A joint statement from CBS Television Network and CBS Television Studios says: "We hoped Melina would return to 'CSI: NY' for another season, but we respect her decision to move on. Her amazing talent and invaluable contribution to the success of the series are greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. She will forever remain a friend to the network and studio and we wish her the very best."
"I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on CSI: NY," said Kanakaredes, "and I will treasure them forever!"
CSI: NY begins production on its seventh season on July 28. The series moves to a new time period this fall, airing Fridays at 9 p.m. on the CBS Television Network.