Avriel Benjamin "Avi" Kaplan announced today (May 12) via an emotional Facebook video that he is leaving Pentatonix. In the video, he is accompanied by the rest of the a capella group, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstin Maldonado, and Kevin Olusola, who support his decision in solemn silence.

Avi, the Pentatonix bass vocalist, plans to appear in the last batch of shows for the act. Info for the performances is available at ptxofficial.com/tour.

During his heartfelt goodbye, Avi explains, "It's been extremely hard for me to not be able to see my family or friends when I need to or when they need to see me. It's been hard for me to just escape to nature when I'm feeling overwhelmed or when I just need time for myself."

He thanks Pentatonix fans in the message, saying it comes directly from his heart. Aca-scuse us while we wipe away our tears.

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