2 Longtime 'Grey's Anatomy' Stars to Exit After Current Season 22, Shonda Rhimes Teases Happy Ending for Characters
Grey’s Anatomy is saying goodbye to two more longtime cast members.
It was just announced that Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver will be leaving the ABC medical drama after the current 22nd season, which is airing now, according to Deadline.
The 52-year-old actor has starred as Dr Owen Hunt since season five, while the 57-year-old actress has played Dr Teddy Altman off and on since season six. They have both also stepped behind the camera and served as director on several episodes.
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Kevin and Kim‘s characters were linked in their past and eventually got married, had children together and are now co-parenting exes.
Sources tell Deadline that the longtime stars were informed they would be leaving the show over a month ago, with their last episode scheduled for the upcoming season 22 finale in May.
Series creator and executive producer Shonda Rhimes has also teased a happy ending for the pair.
“Over the years, we have had the privilege of watching Owen and Teddy’s love story evolve and deepen – two characters who always seem to find their way back to each other,” she shared. “It is both bittersweet and joyful to give this couple the happy ending their story deserves.”
“Grey’s Anatomy has been a huge chapter of my life, creatively and personally, and I’m deeply grateful for everything the show has given me over the years,” Kevin says.
Kim added, “Playing Dr. Teddy Altman will always hold a dear and special place in my heart.”
Kevin and Kim are two of the longest-running current cast members, just behind Ellen Pompeo, James Pickens Jr and Chandra Wilson.
Kevin joined in season five and has remained a series regular since. Kim joined in season six and and left for several years after season eight, before returning as recurring in season 14 and back to series regular the next season.
Current series showrunner Meg Marinis hinted that they could return to the show in the future.
“While their story is coming to a close, this is never truly a goodbye,” she stated. “We are endlessly grateful for the years, the artistry and the memories they’ve given to the show and we look forward to cheering them on in whatever comes next.”
Earlier this year, there were talks of budget considerations surrounding a Grey’s season 23 renewal, hinting there could be cast exits.