Sara Ramirez Announces Departure From ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ After Season 12 Finale

Sara Ramirez announced Thursday night that she has decided to exit Grey’s Anatomy after spending 10 years on the show.

Sara Ramirez Leaves Grey’s

Ramirez, who played orthopedic surgeon Callie Torres on Grey’s, took to Twitter after the season 12 finale of Grey’s Anatomy to let her fans know that she would not be returning for the hit ABC show’s 13th season.

“I’m deeply grateful to have spent the last 10 years with my family at Grey’s Anatomy and ABC, but for now, I’m taking some welcome time off,” Ramirez’s statement read. “Shonda’s been so incredible to work for, and we will definitely continue our conversations! I send my love to Ellen, the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!”

Both Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes and titular star Ellen Pompeo reacted to Ramirez’s departure on Twitter.

“@SaraRamirez portrayal of Callie Torres brought much comfort and understanding to people who needed it her contribution was immeasurable ? ?,” Pompeo tweeted.

Rhimes wrote, “Dr. Callie Torres came into our lives dancing in her underwear almost a decade ago, and I could not be happier or more proud of her journey. Sara Ramirez’s performance inspired me and well as millions of fans each week. We wish her the best on her well-deserved time off. I will miss Callie tremendously, but am excited for what the future holds for Sara. She will always have a home at Shondaland.”

Grey’s Anatomy will return to ABC with its 13th season in the fall.