Nathan Fillion: 'Castle' finale wasn't as 'beautiful' as hoped

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Castle star Nathan Fillion is weighing in on the show's much-criticized series finale.

The 45-year-old actor, who played Richard Castle on the ABC series, admitted in an interview with the New York Post that the show's abrupt ending wasn't the perfect conclusion he'd hoped for.

"It wasn't the beautiful send-off that I think maybe you could hope for, but it's the entertainment industry, it's a business, I get it," Fillion said.

"I don't take it personally when a show gets canceled -- I can't take it personally, all my shows get canceled. Look at my resume, it's a long list of canceled TV shows," he added.

ABC had announced in April that Stana Katic, who played Kate Beckett, wouldn't return for Season 9. Castle was canceled ahead of the Season 8 finale the next month, despite Fillion and other stars having signed on for another season.

"All things must end. It has been an honor working with the men and women of Castle. I am truly amazed at what we've done. Thank you all," the actor tweeted after the cancellation.

"Dear Every Director, It appears I have an opening in my schedule," he added. "Dear Fans, In whatever project I do next, loudly notice how unlike Castle and fresh and versatile I am. Thanks."

Fillion, who is also known for the series Two Guys and a Girl and Firefly, has since debuted as Rainer Shine on Modern Family. The actor will reprise the guest role in at least three more episodes.