Another character will be removed from the new Melrose Place show when Ashlee Simpson leaves the cast.  According to the Todd Slavkin, executive producer of the show, that has been the plan since the beginning and Ahslee has known the whole time. 

Ashlee Simpson was quoted as saying "Having the chance to play Violet on 'Melrose Place' has been a thrill. Although I always knew her story would come to a final, insanely unpredictable end, playing a creepy, unstable character was something I always wanted to do, so I jumped at the chance. Thanks to the entire cast and crew of Melrose Place for allowing me this opportunity."

Ashlee Simpson is the second cast member to have their release from the show announced this week.  A couple of days ago, Collin Egglesfield (Auggie) was announced to be released also.  It is not known if his release was previously planned also though.

You have to wonder though how this will affect the Who Killed Sydney poll! Polling will last until the night we all find out.