As Mortal Kombat: Legacy enters its second series, official casting details remain scarce and enshrouded in rumor. Regrettably, we've learned of another actors exit as Jeri Ryan confirms she will not be returning to reprise her role as Sonya Blade!

The starring actress cites commitments to ABC drama Body of Proof as the reason for her departure. Filming for Legacy's second series began November 28 [full story], with Ian Anthony Dale making his return as Scorpion.

Ryan was among the first and most public members of the Legacy cast, teasing her involvement in a tweet as early as January, 2011. It was the first of many posts by the prolific micro-blogger (@JeriLRyan), who shared pictures from the set, and was spotlit as a primary source for Mortal Kombat Online throughout initial coverage. Hers was the responsibility of going on first, starring in Episodes 1 and 2, opposite Michael Jai White and Darren Shahlavi.

Ryan may not be the only casualty from the first series. Matt Mullins (Johnny Cage) seems to have bid his farewell in a recent message to the cast. Both actors made waves with their appearance in Rebirth -- the bootleg short that earned Kevin Tancharoen his role as Director, before they were recast for the series. Tahmoh Penikett, who appeared briefly in Legacy as a protocol appreciating Stryker, will also not return.


Jeri Ryan on the set of MK Legacy with Director Kevin Tancharoen

With endings come new beginnings. Dan Southworth is the first new cast member confirmed for Series 2 [full story], with more likely to follow as new characters join the show.

Liu Kang and Kung Lao will likely have major roles as the series tackles the Mortal Kombat tournament proper. Kenshi and Ermac were also among the characters announced in July. Sonya Blade and Johnny Cage were announced for the second series, but it remains to be seen if they will be subsequently written out, or recast.

The rumors and news are just beginning! Keep up-to-date with Mortal Kombat: Legacy on the Media & Merchandise forums. Special thanks to Sweetre15 for forwarding the tweet. If you've got info, submit a newslead!