The actor joined the soap on a three-year contract in January but just a few months later it was reported that he was considering quitting because of the apparently "tense" on-set atmosphere.
Speaking to The Mirror today, Murray explained that his decision to go was agreed mutually with executive producer Kate Harwood. "I sat down recently with the boss and we decided it would be much better for Johnny to go out with a bang than to hang around the Square for years, ageing gracefully."
A spokeswoman added: "Billy has been a fantastic asset to the show and we wish him all the best for the future."
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