Once Upon a Time season 7: Is Rebecca Mader returning?

Once day after the Once Upon a Time season 7 renewal, there was some unfortunate news that surfaced about Rebecca Mader. Alas, she won’t be coming back in the role of Zelena.

Was this a decision of her own doing? It doesn’t sound like it. In a new post on Instagram, she confirmed that her time will end following the season 6 finale on Sunday night. She cites a “creative decision” for her exit, but also remains grateful to showrunners Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, plus everyone over at ABC who worked to make the show as popular as it is.

Mader is one of the stars with the wonderful experience of seeing the fans first-hand, having traveled to many conventions over the years in order to meet them in-person. She’s seen the impact that playing someone like her character, a redeemed villain trying to find a new place in life, and how relatable such a part can be. It’s a powerful thing, and Once Upon a Time fans are passionate, loving, and very supportive of the people they enjoy watching.

As of now, the only cast members seemingly returning for season 7 are Robert Carlyle (Rumple), Lana Parrilla (Regina), and Colin O’Donoghue (Hook). It’s somewhat odd that it is a trio of villains surviving the fray while others like Jennifer Morrison and (per rumors) Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas leave. The status of Jared Gilmore (Henry) and Emilie de Ravin (Belle) remains unclear. If they do not return, fingers crossed that there are some guest-star availabilities for many of them. The thought of no one turning up for a seventh and possible final season is truly distressing. As it is, the writers and ABC will face some struggles in convincing many viewers to watch the show in the first place.

The final new episodes of Once Upon a Time this season — and with Morrison as Emma Swan and Bader as Zelena — air Sunday on ABC. A final battle will ensue, and through the rubble, a few characters will get to the other side.

Have a reaction to Mader departing Once Upon a Time? Share in the comments below! (Photo: ABC.)

 

To my Darling Pretties, First of all I would like to start by congratulating Adam, Eddie, Lana, Bobby and Colin on the pick up of Once Upon A Time! I am truly happy for you all and most importantly for the fans that will get to keep tuning in each week to see where they will take us. A lot of you have been asking if I will be joining everyone in Season 7, so I wanted to let you know personally that unfortunately I am not. This wasn't my choice but a creative decision of the shows that I totally respect and understand. The most important thing is that you all know how much you mean to me. I am told frequently both online and in person that by being a part of such a special show I have in some way changed someone's life. This is hugely meaningful to me. I am here to let you know that I am the one who has been changed. Not just by playing such a well written multi-dimensional character but by the fandom itself. I have heard your stories, your pain, your struggles, your achievements and I have truly felt you. I have learned. I have grown. I am a better person because of you, the fans and everyone that blessed me with this opportunity to play such an iconic role. Congrats all and thank you! I look forward to the next. I invite you to come with me on this journey. I am forever changed. And I'm wicked. And Wicked Always Wins. Forever yours, Bex ?

A post shared by Rebecca Mader (@bexmader) on May 11, 2017 at 11:19pm PDT