First, Grey’s Anatomy is losing ground.
Now, it has lost its edgeuh.
On Wednesday afternoon, Krista Vernoff announced that she was leaving her post as executive producer and showrunner on Grey’s Anatomy, effective this spring when Season 19 wraps up filming.
He has been in this role since 2017.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to have been entrusted with running Grey’s Anatomy for the past six years and Station 19 for the past four,” Vernoff said in a statement to Deadline.
“The passion of the dedicated fandom and the impact this show has on hearts and minds cannot be overstated.
“The amount of talent in these two incredible casts and these two brilliant writer’s chambers is immeasurable – and this crew does what they do week after week.”
Vernoff concludes, referring to the creators of the famous show:
“I will be forever grateful to Shonda Rhimes for her trust and to Disney and ABC for their support. The last time I left Grey’s Anatomy, I was away for seven seasons and the show was still going on when Shonda called me to run it.
“So I didn’t say goodbye because it was too bitter and sweet. I said ‘See you in seven seasons.’”
Vernoff started as writer for Grey’s Anatomy for its first seven seasons before departing and returning in Season 14 as showrunner.
He has served in this capacity at Station 19—a spin-off of Grey’s Anatomy—since the drama’s third season.
News of Vernoff’s impending exit comes months after Ellen Pompeo also confirmed it he will go on as main character Meredith Grey.
ABC hasn’t made a decision about the program’s future… and it’s still pulling strong ratings in its Thursday night time slot… but it’s hard not to wonder if the medical drama will end forever in May after these two women are gone.
“Krista Vernoff has poured her heart and soul into Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19, and her voice is essential to the success of these beloved series,” said Craig Erwich, President, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals.
“It takes a tough lead to run two shows simultaneously and Krista pulls it off effortlessly.
“Her creative prowess has left an indelible mark and thanks to her, our viewers will continue to be drawn to this dynamic and lovable character for years to come.”
Rhimes, for his part, chimed in with the following developments:
“Krista’s creativity, vision and dedicated leadership have allowed ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Station 19’ to continue to grow.
“I am very grateful to him for all his hard work. He will always be a part of the Shondaland family.”