The Only Way Is Essex is becoming an ever-more deserted stomping ground, with stars Maria Fowler and Harry Derbidge both confirming they are to leave the ITV2 reality show.
Derbridge, who first coined the famous TOWIE phrase "shurrrrup", wrote on his Twitter page: "Hiya! I really did not want you to all find out so soon but its out there, I am not in TOWIE anymore as I am moving onto different things."
A tweet from fellow TOWIE star James Argent suggests Derbridge wants a West End role, he said: "Emotional call with close mate @MrHarryDerbidge and his Mum Aunty Karen! You will be in the west end dancing 100%! Originals, never forget!!"
Fowler, whose involvement in the show had been cast into doubt following allegations that she worked as an escort, also tweeted about her exit. She wrote: "I would like to be the first to announce... After a rollercoaster year and after meeting with producers today we have decided that my time on TOWIE has come to an end (sic)."
Amy Childs was the first TOWIE star to leave the Essex based show behind after appearing on Celebrity Big Brother. Mark Wright then departed to take on the I'm A Celebrity jungle challenge, and Kirk Norcross recently quit to follow in Childs' footsteps in the CBB house. This lot may have been the first to leave the BAFTA-winning Essex show for a taste of more lucrative reality, but it doesn't look like they'll be the last...