Scott Patterson Opens Up About Departure from 'Sullivan's Crossing'
Actor Scott Patterson has publicly addressed his exit from the television series Sullivan's Crossing just before the premiere of its fourth season later this month. In a candid Instagram post, the 67-year-old star, best known for his role in Gilmore Girls, explained that his departure was driven by creative differences with producers that had become untenable.
Background on the Show and Patterson's Role
Sullivan's Crossing, adapted from Robyn Carr's bestselling novels, airs in Canada on CTV and Crave, and in the United States on The CW. The series follows neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan, played by Morgan Kohan, as she returns to her childhood home in Nova Scotia and reconnects with her estranged father, Harry Sully Sullivan, portrayed by Patterson. The show also features Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones and Marcus Rosner as Liam, Maggie's ex-husband.
Earlier this week, showrunner and executive producer Roma Roth confirmed that Patterson would not be returning for Season 4. Roth noted that while Sully is still overseas in Ireland at the start of the new season, the character remains an important part of the show's world and could potentially return in future seasons.
Patterson's Statement to Fans
In his Instagram message, Patterson expressed deep affection for his character, stating, Every actor knows what it's like to fall in love with a character and a story. I fell in love with Sully and have nothing but fondness for him. However, he clarified that his exit was a personal decision, saying, I just sadly realized that the show was not something that I could agree to continue.
Patterson emphasized that he felt compelled to speak out because it had been implied that writers had moved on from Sully, which he claims is the complete opposite of the truth. He added, Those who sadly already have spoken out are also fully aware of this fact, and yet chose to say otherwise.
Reasons for Speaking Out
The actor explained that he initially did not plan to address his departure but decided to clear the air because fans of the books and the show deserve to know the truth. He expressed concern that viewers might think he was ungrateful or disinterested, stating, The fans deserved better than to think the embodiment of this character, me, would just disrespect not only the show, but them.
Patterson praised the complexity of Sully's character, describing him as multi-layered and interesting, and affirmed his commitment to defending the truth for the sake of the audience. He concluded, In the end, we're all fans of these characters and stories, and I'll always support and defend the truth.
Fan Reactions and Impact
Viewers have reacted with disappointment to the news, with many citing Patterson's portrayal of Sully as a key reason for watching the show. Comments on social media include statements like, Won't be watching anymore. No one puts Sully in the corner, and You were the reason I watched this show. I'm sorry this has happened.
Season 4 of Sullivan's Crossing is set to premiere on March 22, picking up with Sully still in Ireland. While Patterson will not appear in this season, the door remains open for potential future returns, as indicated by Roth's statement.
