Robert Pattinson Likens Leaving Edward Cullen Behind To ‘A Breakup’; ‘Twilight’ Stars Return To Los Angeles After Wrapping ‘Breaking Dawn’

The days of playing “The Twilight Saga’s” sexy Edward Cullen are coming to an end for Robert Pattinson, who skyrocketed to international heartthrob status with the release of the series’ first film in 2008.

Now, as the actor wraps up his last scenes for the highly anticipated final installment, “Breaking Dawn,” R-Pattz says it’s almost as if he’s losing his better half.

“It does feel like a breakup. I do love the guy — and I’m going to miss him,” Robert recently told the Chicago Sun-Times of leaving the beloved character behind. “I prefer to think of ending this franchise like leaving school. It’s the last day of high school.”

While parting with the romantic bloodsucker is sweetly sorrowful, there are certain aspects of becoming Edward that the Brit said he would not miss.

“I’ll be very glad not to put those contacts in anymore or have to put on the sparkling makeup,” he told the paper with a laugh.

Robert is moving on to tackle more mature roles – he joins Reese Witherspoon in the upcoming romance, “Water for Elephants,” which hits theaters on April 22 — and then will be seen in the dark drama “Bel Ami,” where he’ll stray from his nice-guy image to play a cruel womanizer.

However, no matter what sort of lofty material the handsome star moves onto, Robert said he’s grateful to have been part of the “Twilight” family.

“It’s been amazing to play the same character through so many adventures. And it’s so strange because my life has changed so much over these years, but ‘Twilight’ and Edward Cullen will always be a part of me,” he told the paper.

“It’s been my whole life. My whole 20s,” he added. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

In related news, Robert’s fellow “Breaking Dawn” stars are trickling back into Los Angeles after wrapping filming on the franchise’s final installment, “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part II.”

Actors Jackson Rathbone, Kellan Lutz and Ashley Greene were photographed arriving at LAX International Airport (separately) on Thursday, returning from filming near Vancouver, Canada.

CLICK HERE to see the photos of the “Twilight” stars landing back in LA!