Hugh Laurie will hang up his cane as cranky doctor Gregory House in May after confirming hit medical drama House will end this season.

In a joint statement from Laurie and executive producers of the show David Shore and Katie Jacobs, released to the media on Wednesday, the trio announced House will not be back for a ninth season.

The press release reads: "The decision to end the show now, or ever, is a painful one, as it risks putting asunder hundreds of close friendships that have developed over the last eight years - but also because the show itself has been a source of great pride to everyone involved.

"The producers have always imagined House as an enigmatic creature; he should never be the last one to leave the party.

"How much better to disappear before the music stops, while there is still some promise and mystique in the air."

And the end of the show could be the end of Laurie's acting career - he suggested he'd turn his attentions to music and directing when the series went off air during a candid interview in November.

The funnyman and actor has won two Best Actor Golden Globes for his performance as Dr House.