Chad Michael Murray and Hilary Burtons contracts were up. They decided to leave the show. No harsh feelings involved though. They havent given a reason on the show that i have heard for lucas and payton leaving. I also have thought about not watching any longer. Not because its not interesting. Its just that they were such important people to all the people that are left behind. Nathans brother. Haleys best friends. Brooks best friend. Jamies aunt and uncle. It just...sucks that they are gone.