It looks like the era of Snooki is soon to be coming to an end. MTV has announced that the soon to be filmed fifth season of Jersey Shore will be the final one with the current cast.

America’s favorite fist-pumpers have returned from Italy, but there will be no time to reunite with loved ones as they’re set to begin filming season 5 in Jersey on Monday. MTV has insisted on keeping them in close quarters with one another to “preserve chemistry” (read: create drama) for the new season.

As for the decision to replace The Situation and company for future seasons, it boils down to simple a simple business choice for MTV. The network is clearly hoping to turn the show into a long-running franchise, which they have a better chance of doing with a fresh (and cheaper) new cast. However, it seems unlikely that they’ll be able to capture lightning in a bottle as they did with the original roster.

Worry not, Shore lovers. The fan favorites from the current cast have all signed spin-off deals with MTV. They should probably just start calling it the Guido Network.

(Photos: WENN)