The Blacklist has always been a rollercoaster of betrayals, secrets, and explosive finales—but nothing prepared fans for the Season 9 ending. Not only did it serve up its signature suspense, but it also confirmed two huge cast exits that have left the fanbase reeling.
Let’s break down who’s leaving, why it matters, and how these changes could shake up Season 10.
Who Left The Blacklist After Season 9?
Amir Arison (Aram Mojtabai) Says Goodbye
One of the most beloved characters, Amir Arison’s Aram, has officially stepped away from the series. After nine years as the tech genius and emotional anchor of the task force, Aram’s departure felt like the end of an era.
Laura Sohn (Alina Park) Also Departs
Just as surprising, Laura Sohn, who played Agent Alina Park, also left the series after Season 9. While her character struggled with migraines and a mysterious illness throughout the season, fans didn’t expect her sudden exit.
Why Did Amir Arison Leave?
A Broadway Dream Comes True
Amir didn’t leave because of drama or burnout. He left to fulfill a lifelong dream—appearing on Broadway. He took on the leading role in The Kite Runner, proving his departure was a personal choice rooted in growth, not friction.
His Exit Was a “Tough Decision”
Arison shared that it was a difficult decision after nearly a decade with the show, but it was time for a new chapter. Thankfully, his character wasn’t killed off, which leaves the door open for potential returns.
Laura Sohn’s Character Arc Wrapped Up
Park’s Medical Condition Explained Her Exit
Throughout Season 9, Park was battling severe migraines—an ongoing subplot that subtly hinted she might step back from fieldwork. In the finale, she decides to take a leave of absence to focus on her health.
A Gentle Goodbye
While not as high-profile as Arison’s exit, Sohn’s departure was handled gracefully—true to the character’s quiet strength and loyalty.
How Did Fans React to the Cast Exits?
Emotional Tributes on Social Media
The fanbase quickly took to social media to express heartbreak, gratitude, and shock. Tributes flooded in for Aram’s humor and heart, and Park’s quiet power.
A Mixed Bag of Sadness and Support
While many were sad to see them go, fans overwhelmingly supported their reasons—especially Amir’s leap into live theatre.
What It Means for Season 10
A Void in the Task Force
With two agents gone, the dynamic of the FBI task force is bound to shift dramatically. Who will fill those shoes?
New Characters Incoming?
It’s highly likely new cast members will be introduced in Season 10. Will they match the charm and depth of Aram and Park? Only time will tell.
Will Aram or Park Ever Return?
The Door Is Wide Open
Unlike Liz Keen’s dramatic exit (and, well, death), both Aram and Park left on good terms. Showrunners have hinted that future cameos aren’t off the table.
Could There Be Guest Appearances in Season 10?
Don’t be surprised if we see a surprise return down the line—especially for a finale or a major story twist.
How Their Exits Were Written Into the Finale
Aram’s Goodbye Speech Hit Fans Hard
In a tearful monologue, Aram told the team he needed time away—from the job, the chaos, and even the city. He’s off to New York, maybe to ride a Citi Bike through Central Park.
Park’s Medical Journey Reached a Turning Point
With her mysterious symptoms worsening, Park made the call to prioritize her health. It wasn’t dramatic, but it was honest—and that made it powerful.
How The Blacklist Has Handled Departures in the Past
It’s Not the First Time the Show Has Shaken Things Up
From Tom Keen to Liz herself, the series has weathered major cast exits before. But Aram’s exit in particular feels like losing part of the show’s heart.
Can the Show Keep Its Core Without Them?
It remains to be seen. But The Blacklist has always been about adaptation—expect the writers to pivot with style.
James Spader Still Holds the Reins
Red’s Story Continues
Despite the cast changes, James Spader’s Raymond Reddington remains the centerpiece of the show. Season 10 promises deeper dives into his secrets—and maybe a reckoning.
Who Might Step Into Bigger Roles Now?
Ressler’s Time to Shine?
With fewer agents in the mix, Agent Donald Ressler might finally get more spotlight—and character development.
Dembe’s New Arc
Dembe’s role has evolved massively over time. With Aram and Park gone, we might see more of his inner world.
Final Thoughts From the Cast
Amir Arison’s Heartfelt Goodbye
He thanked the cast, crew, and fans in a moving Instagram post, promising that The Blacklist will always be family.
Laura Sohn’s Quiet Farewell
While Sohn didn’t post a formal goodbye, her last scenes were filled with subtle emotion that said it all.
Conclusion
The Season 9 finale of The Blacklist didn’t just close a chapter—it opened a new one. With Amir Arison and Laura Sohn stepping away, the show faces a seismic shift. But the beauty of The Blacklist has always been its unpredictability. These goodbyes hurt—but they also remind us of what made these characters unforgettable in the first place. As we look toward Season 10, one thing’s for sure: change is coming, and it’s going to be dramatic.
FAQs
1. Why did Amir Arison leave The Blacklist?
He left to pursue a dream of performing on Broadway in The Kite Runner.
2. Will Aram return in Season 10?
There’s no official confirmation, but his exit left the door open for future appearances.
3. Why did Laura Sohn leave the show?
Her character’s health struggles were used to write her exit. No official statement was given.
4. Will new characters join in Season 10?
Most likely. The task force needs new blood, and showrunners usually fill gaps quickly.
5. Is The Blacklist ending soon?
Season 10 is confirmed, but beyond that, NBC hasn’t revealed long-term plans.
