Fans of the 'X-Men' franchise are all in high disappointment from the news of Hugh Jackman leaving his iconic Wolverine role.

While the actor was previously quoted stating that he wanted to play the role as long as he possibly could, he has since taken this back with his decision to put the claws down.

"I said to my wife, 'The moral is that I should never stop playing Wolverine. I've got to find a way to keep playing him until I die.' I know that someday they'll recast the role with another actor... I'd be happy if the role was eventually recast. It would mean that it had become iconic," Jackman states in an interview with E! Online.

News now suggest that the actor's last reprisal will be in his third solo effort, 'Wolverine 3' possibly also accompanied with Patrick Stewart as Professor X.

In a recent interview on the Dr. Oz Show, the actor explains why he has come to this decision:

"It just felt like it was the right time to do it. And let's be honest, 17 years. I never thought in a million years it would last, so I'm so grateful to the fans for the opportunity of playing it. ... I kind of have in my head what we're going to do in this last one. It just feels like this is the perfect way to go out."

Rumor has it that the last movie will embellish the comic book story of 'Old Man Logan,' making it a very fitting way for the actor to exit the role. This, however is yet to be confirmed.

Jackman is also not believed to be featured in the upcoming 'X-Men: Age of Apocalypse' film.

'Wolverine 3' is scheduled to premiere in theaters on March 3^rd, 2017.