Justin Chambers is leaving Grey’s Anatomy after 15 years.
The 49-year-old has played Dr. Alex Karvev for 16 seasons. PEOPLE report that his last episode aired on November 14, 2019 in North America.
“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,” he said in a statement to the publication. “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.”
He went on to thank Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rimes, as well as Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens – the three remaining original cast members.
“As I move on from Grey’s Anatomy, I want to thank the ABC family, Shonda Rimes, original cast members Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens, and the rest of the amazing cast and crew, both past and present, and, of course, the fans for an extraordinary ride.”
Karev was last seen in Grey’s 350th episode, which aired on November 14, hone he left the hospital to take care of his sick mother. Deadline report that this is “likely his last episode for the foreseeable future.”
The character was introduced in the Grey’s series premiere as a surgical intern at Seattle Grace. He eventually became a resident, and later a paediatric surgical fellow.
