Yesterday, the CW announced they were ordering five more episodes of freshman drama Melrose Place. But the good news was quickly followed by bad -- at least in the opinion of these soap fans. In a shocking twist, Colin Egglesfield and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz were released from the show.

Entertainment Weekly first reported the news, along with commentary from the show's executive producers, who told the mag that Ashlee and Colin's departures were always "part of the plan." Essentially, the "who killed Sydney" mystery was intended to end episode 12, with Ashlee's character Violet and Colin's Auggie disappearing afterwards (hmm...think this might reveal who the killer is prematurely?).

On the contrary though, Colin (who you probably know and love like we do from All My Children), told E! that his release from the show came as a complete surprise to him, explaining "I had a multiyear contract."

So what reason was he given for the dismissal? According to Colin, "It was a network decision ... the network thought Auggie was a little too dark, with his alcoholism ... It wasn't like I was getting in fights with crew members or punching people out."

Plus, if you ask us -- he's one of the best parts of the new series!

What do you think of the new Melrose without Colin and Ashlee?

PHOTO SOURCE: The CW