Chandler Massey Leaving 'Days Of Our Lives' Effective Immediately

Chandler Massey has left the role of Will Horton on Days of Our Lives effective immediately, Soap Opera Digest reported Friday.

Massey had announced his desire to leave in June after winning his second Daytime Emmy for Younger Lead. He had given indication that he could be persuaded to change his mind. However, a spokesperson for the show declared that Massey would no longer be in the role that garnered him acclaim for playing the gay lead on the soap opera.

"As Chandler Massey announced back in June, he will be leaving the show to further pursue his education and other entertainment opportunities," the spokesperson said. "While Days of our Lives is disappointed to lose such a talent, the show understands and supports him in his future endeavors. Due to current storyline and the timely discovery of new talent that the show feels is the right recast for Will Horton, a mutual decision has been made for the changes to taken place immediately. Chandler will always be a part of the Days family and we wish him nothing but continued success."

Massey took to Twitter and thanks fans for their outpouring of support over the years.

Thank you, thank you, and thank you. It has been such an amazing journey, and I am so grateful to have shared these four years with you all.

— Chandler Massey (@ChandlerMassey) August 23, 2013

As I move forward from Days, I will never forget the laughs we shared, the tears we shed, & the love we spread. Time to get edumacated! — Chandler Massey (@ChandlerMassey) August 23, 2013

Massey also had a supporter in Hollywood actor, Charlie Sheen. Sheen blasted Days for “firing” Massey on his Twitter. Read Sheen's comments here.