Get ready to say goodbye to Erlich Bachman. HBO has confirmed that T.J. Miller, who played the blowhard stoner on Silicon Valley will not be returning to the tech comedy next season.
“The producers of Silicon Valley and T.J. Miller have mutually agreed that T.J. will not return for season 5,” HBO said in a statement. “In Erlich Bachman, T.J. has brought to life an unforgettable character, and while his presence on the show will be missed, we appreciate his contribution and look forward to future collaborations.”
News of Miller’s departure came shortly after HBO renewed “Silicon Valley” for a fifth season. The satirical show, which skewers the Bay Area’s dot-com community, is currently halfway through its fourth season. The rest of the show’s ensemble cast — made up of Thomas Middleditch, Zach Woods, Kumail Nanjiani, Martin Starr, Josh Brener, Amanda Crew, Matt Ross, Jimmy O. Yang and Suzanne Cryer — is expected to be back for Season 5.
Miller’s departure will definitely leave a void. The slovenly hacker hostel landlord was one of the show’s most popular characters, spewing some of the best (and most profane) one-liners and insults.
Since the debut of “Silicon Valley,” Miller’s star has risen. In addition to his Comedy Central series “The Gorburger Show,” he as appeared in big-screen flicks, including “Office Christmas Party,” and “Deadpool.” Miller will reprise his role in the latter’s sequel, due out in 2018. He also has a role in the upcoming film, “The Emoji Movie.”
In addition, Miller headlines his first standup special for HBO, “Meticulously Ridiculous,” on June 17.
