“Rizzoli & Isles” is losing its showrunner, with Janet Tamaro stepping down from the position after Season 4, according to Variety.

“I did four seasons that I’m incredibly proud of, and the show is in great shape,” Tamaro told Variety. “It’s been phenomenal, but I’m at the top of my game creatively and really want to use the juice I have to produce other projects … I do so love writing female characters, and I want to do more!”

Tamaro will reportedly remain with the show as a consulting producer for its fifth season. A replacement for her position has yet to be named. Tamaro is also said to be in talks with “R&I” producer Warner Horizon TV to develop other projects, and has a deal with New Regency for a female-driven suspense thriller.

Tamaro told Variety that the death of star Lee Thompson Young prompted her to reevaluate her career, although it was not the reason for her departure: “it was a catalyst for me to examine what I want to be doing next,” she said.

After the news of the actor’s death broke, Tamaro responded on Twitter:









janet tamaro









janet tamaro

The show halted production on Season 5 in the wake of Young’s death to allow the cast and crew to grieve.

Tamaro created the show for TNT in 2010, having developed the concept from a series of books about the titular characters by Tess Gerritsen.

For more on Tamaro’s exit, click over to Variety.

“Rizzoli & Isles” will conclude its fourth season on TNT in early 2014.

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