The Hollywood Reporter:

In the half-decade since the wry study of startup culture premiered, the ground has shifted beneath it — the public perception of the tech industry has dimmed considerably, as has the general appeal of a TV show built around five single bros. But rather than dwell on the increasingly charged climate or the departure of a beloved character, those still involved with Silicon Valley argue that a shake-up is exactly what a show entering middle age needs to feel fresh. "The truth is it can be pretty easy to get stuck in the formula and revisit the same rhythms, especially in a comedy," says Nanjiani, who picked up an Oscar nomination for co-authoring his own, The Big Sick, between seasons. "This forces the show to be different — and after four or five years, that's not such a bad thing."

Let’s get it out of the way now. The decision to cut ties with Miller, 36, had been a long time coming. While nearly everyone associated with the series is loath to speak publicly about the events that led to the actor’s departure, several make veiled references to his “demons” and the fact that he’s been known to self-medicate with alcohol and other substances. Miller hasn’t been shy about those vices either, wearing them at times like a badge of honor — or at least a solid launchpad for comedy, with bits that have hinged on his propensity to “drink till he passed out.” There had been stretches when, multiple show sources say, he looked to have things under control, and others when he’d show up seemingly under the influence, if he showed up at all.