Nancy Grace will leave HLN in October

Nancy Grace will leave HLN when her contract expires in October.

One of the most visible personalities on cable news, Grace, a former prosecutor, is known for her zealous coverage of high-profile, tabloid-friendly criminal cases. Her self-titled show has been a prime-time anchor for HLN, CNN’s sister network, since 2005.

“This fall, I’ll be leaving HLN, my longtime TV home, with a full heart and endless gratitude,” Grace said in a statement Thursday. “The network has been my extended family for nearly a dozen years, and I am proud of the amazing work we’ve produced together.”

Grace’s final broadcast will be Oct. 13. She has not specified what she plans to do next, but in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter she said she plans to stay in the TV business.

The Georgia native turned to a career in law following the murder of her college fiance. Grace has described herself as an advocate for victims but has also been criticized for coverage that ignores the presumption of innocence. Her show, which often focuses on cases involving murdered women and children, drew its biggest ratings ever following the acquittal of Casey Anthony in 2011.

Before HLN, she co-hosted Court TV’s “Cochran and Grace” with famed O.J. Simpson attorney Johnnie Cochran.

Grace’s colorful style has made her a popular target for parody in films and TV shows. She’s also appeared as herself on “Dancing With The Stars,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “The Wire.”

Twitter: @MeredithBlake