First, Grey’s Anatomy lost the lead.
now it lost the leadyou know.
On Wednesday afternoon, Krista Vernoff announced she was stepping down as executive producer and showrunner of Grey’s Anatomy.
She has been in this role since 2017.
“Being entrusted with running Grey’s Anatomy for the last six years and Station 19 for the last four years has been a once-in-a-lifetime privilege,” Vernoff said in a statement to Deadline.
“The passion of our dedicated fandom and the impact these shows have on our hearts and minds cannot be overstated.
“The amount of talent in this two extraordinary cast and two amazing writers’ rooms is unfathomable, and these crews work like magic every week.”
Referring to the show’s famous creator, Vernoff concluded:
“I will forever be grateful for Shonda Rhimes’ trust and for the support of Disney and ABC. It was still going on.
“I won’t say goodbye because it’s too bitter. I’m saying ‘See you in Nanaki.'”
Vernoff departed as a writer on Grey’s Anatomy for the first seven seasons, returning as showrunner for season 14.
She has played this role on Station 19 (a spin-off of Grey’s Anatomy) since the drama’s third season.
News of Vernoff’s upcoming exit comes months after Ellen Pompeo also confirms Girlfriend Leaving as the main character Meredith Gray.
ABC has yet to make a decision about the show’s future…and it’s still rated highly on Thursday night’s time slot…but after these women walk away, the medical drama will be fully released in May. I can’t help but wonder if it’s going to end.
“Krista Vernoff put her heart and soul into ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Station 19,’ and her voice has been pivotal to the success of these beloved series,” said ABC Entertainment. said Craig Erwich, president of Hulu and Disney Branded TV Streaming Originals.
“It takes a strong leader to run two shows at the same time, and Krista did it effortlessly.
“Her creative power has left an indelible mark, and thanks to her, our viewers will remain invested in these dynamic and cherished characters for years to come.”
Rhimes said of the development:
“Krista’s creativity, vision and dedicated leadership have allowed ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Station 19’ to continue to thrive.
“We are so grateful for all of her hard work. She will always be part of the Shondaland family.”