For nine seasons,Emmy Rossumhas played the fierce, loyal, and strong Fiona Gallagher.

But now, the 31-year-old actress issaying goodbye toShameless, an announcement she made on Thursday.

Only hours after sharing an emotional post on social media, Rossum chatted with EW about her difficult decision.

Episode 710

Chuck Hodes/SHOWTIME

“I will never be saying goodbye to Fiona,” she exclusively tells EW.

I started on the show when I was 23 and now I’m not.

I’m just filled with gratitude for everyone’s hard work."

I think there is so much to be mined here.