Private Practice will soon bid farewell to one of its core characters, Naomi.

In what TV Line calls an amicable split, Audra McDonald is leaving the West Coast-based ABC medical drama at the end of the season to be closer to her family in New York.

While the Tony winner will no longer be a main cast member, reports say there is no bad blood whatsoever and she may well be back in a guest-starring capacity next season.

Audra's character, Naomi, has played a less integral role of late.

“I have spent four amazing years working with the best cast and crew on television at Private Practice,” McDonald said in a statement confirming her departure.

“Though I am stepping away from the series as a regular in order to spend more time in New York with my family, I am not closing the door on Private Practice."

"I am beyond grateful to Shonda Rhimes, ABC, and the team behind the show.”

Executive producer Rhimes says, “We are so appreciative of Audra and her talents and look forward to having her return to Private Practice as often as possible."

"Audra has been a bicoastal commuter throughout four seasons on the air, and e respect and appreciate her desire to spend more time with family in New York.”

McDonald’s departure has been rumored for some time already, as her role has diminished as the producers struggled to accommodate her 3,000-mile commute.

At least we can expect her to leave Oceanside on relatively good terms, or alive in any case. How do you think Private Practice will handle Naomi's departure?

Are you sad to see Audra leave the cast? Leave a comment below.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.