Maura Tierney Exiting ‘Parenthood’ As She Continues To Battle Breast Cancer

Maura Tierney is exiting NBC’s new fall drama, “Parenthood,” as she continues to undergo treatment for breast cancer.

In July, news broke that production on the show was being postponed for eight weeks to allow the actress time to undergo a “medical evaluation,” NBC previously confirmed. Later, the actress confirmed she had a tumor in her breast, which required surgery.

Although the show’s start date was pushed back to mid-fall so that Tierney could undergo the treatment, it appears the show will now be moving forward without her and her part will be recast.

“While we are saddened that Maura Tierney won’t be able to continue in her current role in ‘Parenthood,’ our main concern is for her quick and full recovery,” an NBC spokesman said. “Our thoughts and best wishes are with her.”

A rep for the former “ER” star said the actress’ prognosis is good.

“Maura Tierney regrets that she will not be able to continue her role on ‘Parenthood’ due to a conflict with the production schedule of the show and her breast cancer treatments,” the actress’ rep said in a statement to Access Hollywood. “Ms. Tierney and her doctors remain confident that the outcome of her treatments will be positive. She is deeply disappointed that she will not be able to rejoin such a highly respected, talented, fun and funny group of actors and wishes to thank Jason Katims and NBC for their patience and support.”

Maura’s role as Sarah, one of four adult children on “Parenthood,” alongside Peter Krause and Dax Shepard, was set to follow up her decade long stint as nurse Abby Lockhart on NBC’s medical drama, “ER.”