Grant Wilson leaving 'Ghost Hunters'

NEW YORK, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Grant Wilson, co-lead investigator of "Ghost Hunters," is leaving the reality TV series, U.S. cable network Syfy confirmed Thursday.

Wilson announced his departure on Wednesday night's episode.

His last appearance is set to air May 16. He will wrap production at some point next month.

"It is with mixed emotion that I am announcing my departure from the cast of 'Ghost Hunters,'" Wilson said in a statement. "While paranormal investigating has always been and will remain a passion for me, after enjoying nearly eight successful seasons on television, I have made the decision to leave the series in order to focus on other aspects of my personal life."

"When Grant and I founded TAPS nearly 20 years ago, we never imagined that we would be able to make such an impact just by doing what we enjoy every day," said Jason Hawes, The Atlantic Paranormal Society co-founder and co-lead investigator on "Ghost Hunters." "I will miss working with Grant on a daily basis, and am indebted to the level of dedication and expertise he has brought to our field. I can't imagine having a better partner through it all -- both on the show and off. Grant and I, along with our spouses and children, are all like one big family. While I fully support his decision to move on from the series, this longtime friendship -- as well as our business partnership -- will continue off-camera for years to come."

"Grant has been an integral part of a show that has become the standard-bearer for paranormal investigation," said Mark Stern, president of Syfy original content and co-head of Universal Cable Productions. "The fact that 'Ghost Hunters' is still going strong in its eighth season is a testament to Grant's amazing partnership with Jason and their clear connection to the audience. We respect and support this difficult decision that Grant has made, and wish him all the best in his new endeavors. The hard work, integrity, and compassion that he has consistently brought to his work won't be easily replaced, but this successful series will find a way to reshape itself as it moves forward."