Jeff Garlin exits The Goldbergs following an HR investigation into his onset behavior. Garlin has been a series regular on the long-running ABC comedy since it premiered in 2013. He plays the family patriarch Murray opposite Wendi McLendon-Covey's Beverly. Hayley Orrantia, Troy Gentile, and Sean Giambrone co-star as Murray and Beverly's children. The '80s set show, which is currently in the midst of season 9, has been a hit with critics. The Goldbergs also inspired the spinoff series Schooled, though it was cancelled after two seasons last year.

Despite The Goldbergs' success, Garlin's behavior has cast a shadow on the show, especially recently. In early December 2021, Garlin spoke with Vanity Fair about the issue, admitting he's been the subject of an HR investigation for the past three years. In the interview, he defended making some of his colleagues on set uncomfortable with his behavior, using the excuse he's a comedian. At the time, Garlin also maintained he had not been fired from The Goldbergs. However, it now seems his time with the show has come to an end.

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Per THR, Garlin has exited The Goldbergs in what's being called a mutual decision between the actor and producer Sony. The actor is done filming as of now, which means Murray will only appear in part of season 9. It remains to be seen how the character's sudden disappearance will be addressed.

The Goldbergs

According to THR's sources, Garlin was unlikely to be a part of The Goldbergs season 10, if it does come to fruition. With this in mind, it's possible those behind the show have already thought about how to write Murray out. It's feasible he could be killed off, similarly to how The Conners handled Roseanne Barr's behavior offscreen. ABC may also decide it's better to cancel the series after season 9. This would make it easier for the writers to explain Murray's absence, as it would only be for a short period of time. It could also help them avoid killing the character off.

Sadly, Garlin is one of the countless figures in the entertainment industry who have had their inappropriate behavior brought to light over the last several years. Though Garlin was fairly unique in agreeing to participate in an interview about the accusations against him, it does not excuse the behavior that made his colleagues uncomfortable on the set of The Goldbergs. Hopefully, the show is able to move on without Garlin and devote more time to the rest of its talented cast.

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Source: Vanity Fair, THR