Grey’s Anatomy is losing one of its original stars. Justin Chambers, who has played Alex Karev since season one, will depart the long-running series during its current 16th season.
Chambers’ run on the show is nothing to sneeze at. 15 years on one of the most popular series on network TV is an impressive run. At this time, a specific moment during this season hasn’t been chosen for his exit so that episode will be determined at a later date. Chambers had this to say about his exit:
”There’s no good time to say goodbye to a show and character that’s defined so much of my life for the past 15 years. For some time now, however, I have hoped to diversify my acting roles and career choices. And, as I turn 50 and am blessed with my remarkable, supportive wife and five wonderful children, now is that time. As I move on from Grey’s Anatomy, I want to thank the ABC family, Shonda Rimes, original cast members Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson, & James Pickens Jr., and the rest of the amazing cast and crew, both past and present, and, of course, the fans for an extraordinary ride.”
Chambers is currently one of only four original Grey’s Anatomy stars to remain with the series from the pilot. With his exit, that leaves leading lady Ellen Pompeo (Meredith), James Pickens Jr. (Richard) and Chandra Wilson (Bailey).
Chambers’ Alex Karev started off as a surgical intern at the fictional Seattle Grace Hospital before eventually rising to the position of resident, and later becoming a pediatric surgical fellow.
