From NBC Media Villiage:
STATEMENT ON DEPARTURE OF SORKIN AND SCHLAMME FROM 'THE WEST WING'

Published: May 1, 2003
STATEMENT FROM JEFF ZUCKER, NBC AND PETER ROTH, WARNER BROS. TELEVISION REGARDING AARON SORKIN AND THOMAS SCHLAMME DEPARTING "THE WEST WING"

"Aaron Sorkin and Tommy Schlamme have done an extraordinary job in their four years at the helm of "The West Wing." Aaron's brilliant writing and Tommy's gifted direction and leadership have been the cornerstones of "The West Wing's" remarkable critical and ratings success. Moving forward we have asked Executive Producer John Wells to assume a more active role next season and he has graciously agreed. We thank and applaud Aaron, Tommy and John for creating one of the finest shows to ever air on television."

STATEMENT FROM JOHN WELLS REGARDING AARON SORKIN AND THOMAS SCHLAMME DEPARTING "THE WEST WING"

"Aaron Sorkin and Tommy Schlamme are irreplaceable," said Wells. "Aaron's an exceptionally gifted writer and we're indebted to him for creating this wonderful world. Tommy's creative vision and his leadership have been central to the show's success. Sadly, we always knew this day would come and have been assembling a talented group of writers, directors and producers to assist in this transition. They will be sorely missed."