Melissa Gilbert exits 'When Calls the Heart' ahead of season 14

Melissa Gilbert announced she will not return for When Calls the Heart season 14, saying she was told her departure was due to "budget issues."

The actress shared the news in an Instagram post on Thursday, revealing that her run as Georgie McGill has come to an end.

"Many people have asked if I will be returning to When Calls the Heart this coming season. The answer to that is no I will not. I am told this is due to 'Budget issues,'" Gilbert wrote. "That said, I wish all my sweet friends in Hope Valley a wonderful and successful season 14."

Melissa Gilbert bids farewell to Hope Valley

In the caption accompanying her post, Gilbert thanked executive producer Michael Landon Jr. for casting her in the Hallmark drama.

"I will be eternally grateful to my dear friend Michael Landon Jr. for giving me the chance to bring Georgie McGill to life. It was a lovely couple of seasons but it's time to say farewell. When one door closes, another one opens. Looking forward to whatever comes next."

She ended the post with the hashtags "#thatsshowbiz" and "#onwardandupward."

A Hallmark Channel spokesperson confirmed the actress' departure to Entertainment Weekly.

"We can confirm that Melissa's storyline on When Calls the Heart concluded in season 13. We adore Melissa and are always grateful when we get to work with her," the spokesperson said.

Exit comes amid husband's legal case

Gilbert's departure comes months after her husband, Timothy Busfield, was indicted on four counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor.

Busfield turned himself in after an arrest warrant was issued and has denied all allegations. The case stems from accusations made by twin child actors who worked with him on Fox's The Cleaning Lady. According to court documents, one of the boys alleged Busfield rubbed his genitals and touched his buttocks on set. Busfield was later accused of sexual assault by another minor.

A grand jury indicted Busfield in February on four counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges, while Gilbert has continued to support him by attending court hearings and writing letters on his behalf.

Gilbert joined When Calls the Heart in season 12 and appeared in a guest role throughout season 13. Hallmark announced the show's season 14 renewal in December.