William Peterson is saying goodbye to “CSI”. The long time front man for the series will be staying on as an executive producer, and plans to make a few guest appearances on the show after his official departure, but his current contract only has him guaranteed to be appearing until the 10th episode of the upcoming season.

During his final episodes Jorja Fox will be returning to the show as well for a multi-part story involving the two that may give us some clue as to where his character is going.

This looks like its going to be a transitional season for the series. Peterson makes the 3rd original cast member to leave the long running series, but this season new characters will be introduced taking the show in a new direction.

Can CSI survive ala “ER” and “Law and Order”? I think so…but we’ll have to wait and see.