AceShowbiz -

In what seems like a deja vu, "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" is going through another major casting change. Jeff Goldblum, through his representatives, announced that he is not returning to the USA network show as Detective Zach Nichols. The actors consideration indeed expired on July 31 after a month of extension from June.

Goldblum did not release a statement to Variety but said that his departure is not a negotiating tactic. Although an option is left open for him to come back, the actor is firm on leaving the show which future is still uncertain. Deadline said the leave has also something to do with the actor switching agent from Gersh to CAA.

USA and Dick Wolf's Wolf Films apparently blessed Goldblum's decision for the parting is said to be "amicable". The actor is now keeping himself busy with the acting stint in Neil Simon's "The Prisoner of Second Avenue" at London's Old Vic.

Goldblum is the replacement of Chris Noth in the seventh season. He went on being the lead male star after Vincent D'Onofrio decided to quit last Fall. There is a rumor that D'Onofrio is asked to come back if the tenth season will be the final one.

The ninth season of "Law & Order: CI" ended in July but the network is yet to give confirmation whether there will be a tenth season, mainly because rating has been declining over the years. The options beside a full-episode pickup are two-season pickup and partial season pickup. USA reportedly will make its decision in the next few days.