Several Glee stars will not be returning for the fourth season because their characters are now seniors and will be graduating from high school during the next series of episodes.
Those donning cap and gowns at the end of the fall season will be stars Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Cory Monteith. Other characters will also be identified during the September 20 premiere, according to Glee co-creator Ryan Murphy.
Characters Rachel, Kurt and Finn will graduate …
Murphy reveals: “The characters are leaving for the integrity of the show. You can keep them on the show for six years and people will criticize you for not being realistic, or you can be really true to life and have them graduate at the end of their senior year.”
Lea Michele ‘tweeted’: “We always knew we’d graduate in real time. It’s all part of the plan and it’s all good! It’s going to make Season 3 amazing!!! To Gleeks everywhere, you’re in my heart now and forever. Love u all!!!! This is just the beginning!!”
More memorable photos below, including a controversial GQ photo spread below:
Photos: FOX-Glee, GQ