Steve Carell leaves 'The Office'

LOS ANGELES, April 29 (UPI) -- Steve Carell has left the U.S. sitcom "The Office" after seven seasons.

Carell's self-absorbed but lovable character Michael Scott left his post of Dunder Mifflin regional manager to follow his fiancee Holly, played by Amy Ryan, to Colorado.

In his final episode, Michael's co-workers plan a going-away party for him unaware that he is leaving a day earlier to avoid tough goodbyes.

Salesman Jim, played by John Krasinski, realizes what's going on and quietly tells Michael he turned out to be a great boss, something Michael always wanted to hear. Jim also text messages his wife, office manager Pam, played by Jenna Fischer, to tell her Michael's leaving early and she rushes to the airport to bid farewell to her longtime supervisor.

Set to appear in the remaining installments of the show this season are Jim Carrey, James Spader and Will Arnett. Ricky Gervais, the creator and star of the original British version of "The Office," is also to guest star on the show.

Although the U.S. series has been renewed for an eighth season, it is unclear who will permanently take over for Michael.