Grey's Anatomy Cast Departures: From Yang To Schmitt & More Grey’s Anatomy has seen the departure of numerous main characters over its 22-season run, with actors leaving the series due to a mix of personal choices, creative decisions, and unforeseen circumstances. The long-running medical drama, created by Shonda Rhimes, has bid farewell to key figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the storylines of Seattle Grace Mercy West Hospital, later renamed Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Below is a list of notable cast members and the characters they portrayed, along with the years they were part of the series. Sandra Oh portrayed Dr. Cristina Yang from 2005 to 2022, becoming one of the show’s most iconic characters. Patrick Dempsey played Dr. Derek Shepherd, known as “McDreamy,” from 2005 to 2022, while T.R. Knight’s Dr. George O’Malley remained a central figure from 2005 to 2022. Eric Dane’s Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy,” was a staple of the series from 2006 to 2021. Katherine Heigl’s Dr. Izzie Stevens was among the original characters to leave, departing in 2009. Justin Chambers’ Dr. Alex Karev was a mainstay from 2005 to 2022. Jerrika Hinton’s Dr. Stephanie Edwards left the show in 2020 after appearing from 2012 to 2020. Sarah Drew’s Dr. April Kepner departed in 2022 after a decade on the series, while Jessica Capshaw’s Dr. Arizona Robbins left in 2024. Isaiah Washington’s Dr. Preston Burke was a key character from 2005 to 2016, and Jesse Williams’ Dr. Jackson Avery remained for 12 seasons before his exit. Sara Ramirez’s Dr. Callie Torres was part of the cast from 2006 to 2021. Kelly McCreary’s Dr. Maggie Pierce left in 2025 after nine seasons, while Chyler Leigh’s Dr. Lexie Grey, Meredith Grey’s half-sister, was on the show from 2007 to 2021.#shonda_rhimes #seattle_grace_mercy_west_hospital #grey_sloan_memorial_hospital #dr_cristina_yang #dr_derek_shepherd
