(CNN) Prepare to say goodbye to Rick Grimes.

During a panel for "The Walking Dead" held at San Diego Comic-Con on Friday, star Andrew Lincoln confirmed speculation he's exiting the massively popular zombie drama.

"This will be my last season playing the part of Rick Grimes," Lincoln told the crowd, according to footage shared by people in attendance.

As the audience stirred upon his bombshell news, Lincoln pleaded for their attention, saying "now hear me out, please. Please."

"I love this show. It means everything to me. I love the people who make this show," he said. "I promise not to cry. I've done enough crying on screen."

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