The comedian told viewers he wanted to return to writing and standing work
Comedian Peter Helliar has left The Project after eight years, following the departure of co-hosts Carrie Bickmore and Lisa Wilkinson.
Helliar, who has filled the comedy chair on Ten's The Project since 2014, said he wanted to return to writing and standing work.
“All these things came in threes and it was time for me to say goodbye,” he said at the end of the show.
“It's something that's been on my mind for quite some time… People will understand this situation however they want to read about it, but I need to create space for a few projects that I want to work on.
“I feel like there are a few new areas I look forward to next year that I should attend…”
Last month Bickmore, founding co-host of The Project, announced he would be leaving the Channel Ten show after 13 years.
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On Sunday, the exodus continued as Lisa Wilkinson walked out on The Project after five years, citing the amount of "targeted toxicity" from the sections of media it was subject to.
"The last six months have not been easy," said Wilkinson. "And the toxicity targeted relentlessly by some sections of the media has taken a toll on not only me but my loved ones."
Helliar said, like Bickmore, he wanted to quit while he still loved the show.
“You said you were happy to leave The Project while you still loved it,” he said. “I still love this show. I really. It means a lot to me. It did great things for me. I've interviewed Luke Skywalker."
Now it seems producers Ten and The Project are looking to freshen up Panel in the new year, although co-hosts Waleed Aly and Hamish Macdonald remain.
Paramount Australia's chief content officer, Beverley McGarvey, said Helliar had been in the Top Ten for 22 years, since Rove Live in 2000.
“Pete's talents at 10 years old also blossomed behind the camera as writer, director, and star of How To Stay Married which ran for three seasons, plus comedy shows Skithouse and Cram,” he says.
Bickmore has confirmed that she will continue to host the national drive alongside Tommy Little on The Hit Network, Carrie & Tommy, for four years.
Bickmore said quitting The Project was "the hardest decision of my professional life... but it was time for a new challenge".
“I will miss my best friends at the desk, the work itself which was so fulfilling, our amazing viewers who have traveled for the last 13 years,” he said last month.