First, Grey’s Anatomy lost its lead.
Now, it has lost its leadis.
On Wednesday evening, Krista Vernoff announced that she will be stepping down as executive producer and showrunner of 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 be entrusted to run Grey’s Anatomy for the past six years and Station 19 for the past four years,” Vernoff said in a statement to Deadline.
“The passion of a dedicated fandom and the impact these shows have on hearts and minds cannot be understated.
“The amount of talent in these two incredible performers and these two fantastic writers’ rooms is immeasurable – and this crew works magic every week.”
Vernoff concludes, referring to the show’s famed creator:
“I would like to thank Shonda Rhimes for her trust and Disney and ABC for their support. The last time I left Grey’s Anatomy, I was gone for seven seasons and the show was still running when Shonda called me to open it.
“So I didn’t say goodbye because it would be bittersweet. I said, ‘See you in seven seasons.’
Vernoff began as a writer on Grey’s Anatomy for the first seven seasons before leaving and returning in Season 14 as showrunner.
He has served in this capacity on Station 19 – a spinoff of Grey’s Anatomy – since the drama’s third season.
The news of Vernoff’s exit comes months after Ellen Pompeo also confirmed it they will leave as the main character Meredith Grey.
ABC hasn’t made a decision about the program’s future yet… and it’s still getting strong Thursday night ratings… but it’s hard not to think the medical drama will end in May after the two women walk away.
“Krista Vernoff has poured her heart and soul into Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19, and her voice has been essential to the success of this beloved series,” said Craig Erwich, President, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals.
“It takes a strong leader to run two shows at once and Krista has done it with ease.
“Her creative power has left an indelible mark and thankfully, audiences will continue to invest in this dynamic and beloved character for years to come.”
Rhimes, for her part, had this to say about the development:
“Krista’s creativity, vision and leadership have allowed ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Station 19’ to continue to grow.
“I am so grateful to him for all his hard work. He will always be a part of the Shondaland family.