Why is T.J. Miller leaving 'Silicon Valley'? Erlich Bachman not returning in season 5

Fans of HBO's critically acclaimed comedy, Silicon Valley, can rejoice that the series is coming back for a fifth season. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of all the cast members. When Silicon Valley returns next year, it will do so without series mainstay T.J. Miller, who plays Erlich Bachman. 

HBO released this statement about Miller's departure:

The producers of 'Silicon Valley' and T.J. Miller have mutually agreed that T.J. will not return for season five. In Erlich Bachman, T.J. has brought to life an unforgettable character, and while his presence on the show will be missed, we appreciate his contribution and look forward to future collaborations.

While no reason has been given for Miller's departure, it is no stretch to assume that his busy film schedule played a role. Since Silicon Valley first premiered on HBO in 2014, Miller has appeared in, or lent his voice to, one huge movie after another. Miller's recent film credits include How To Train Your Dragon 2, Big Hero 6, Transformers: Age of Extinction, Office Christmas Party and, of course, Deadpool. 

Despite exiting Silicon Valley, fans will be seeing a whole lot of Miller going forward. In addition to reprising his role of Weasel in Deadpool 2, Miller is also set to appear in Steven Spielberg's Ready Player One, and will star alongside Iron Fist's Jessica Henwick and Personal Shopper's Kristen Stewart in Underwater. Miller will also return for How To Train Your Dragon 3. 

Suffice it to say, T.J. Miller may be leaving Silicon Valley, but he is in no way disappearing — perhaps not even from HBO. Sources told the Hollywood Reporter that T.J. Miller could return as himself to HBO for season two of the Pete Holmes-starring comedy, Crashing. 

Silicon Valley is currently airing its fourth season, Sundays at 10 p.m. Eastern on HBO. 

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