According to Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello:

[...] Sources confirm to me exclusively that Dustin Milligan, who plays affable jock (and one half of 90210’s central super couple) Ethan, won’t be returning to the show in the fall — at least not full time.

Reps for The CW and producer Paramount declined comment, but a 90210 insider confirms that Milligan’s contract option is not being picked up for next season. The source adds that the door is being left open for the actor to briefly appear in the fall to wrap up Ethan’s story.

All indications are that Milligan’s exit was strictly a creative decision. “Everyone loves Dustin,” maintains the insider. “There was just a feeling that the character had run its course.” (Curiously, the news comes just days after Milligan’s newbie co-star, Matt Lanter — a.k.a. bad boy Liam — confirmed that he was being promoted to a series regular next season.) [...]

I don’t feel like adding anything else.

1. Kenishah says on April 1st, 2009 at 12:16 am:

   Son of a bitch.

2. Kelly says on April 1st, 2009 at 12:39 am:

   i want to cry. This is the worst decision that the show oculd have made. Who cuts a main character that is so amazing and loved? it’s common sense! I want to boycot the show just for this dumb, stupid, pety decision! WE ALL NEED TO SEND MAIL TO THE CW URGING THAT THIS IS A HORRIBLE DECSION! LET’S GET ETHAN BACK!

3. Joshua says on April 3rd, 2009 at 3:28 pm:

   Sadly his contract expired. From what I read. Ethan didn\’t renew his contract with them. Properly figure it wouldn\’t be a big hit at first.