It has been nearly 20 years since Grey’s Anatomy premiered on March 27, 2005, and the medical drama continues to thrive as it enters its 21st season. While some original cast members like Chandra Wilson and James Pickens Jr. still remain, others have moved on to new ventures.
Series lead Ellen Pompeo stepped back from her full-time role in 2023, now making occasional appearances and continuing to narrate the show. Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, she admitted that she felt like “an animal at the zoo” and knew it was time for a change.
However, not all departures have been as smooth as Ellen’s. Show creator Shonda Rhimes recently revealed that Isaiah Washington’s firing in 2007 remains a painful memory for the cast.
The Isaiah Washington Controversy
Washington, who played Dr. Preston Burke, was fired after using a homophobic slur toward T.R. Knight (Dr. George O’Malley) during a confrontation with Patrick Dempsey (Dr. Derek Shepherd). Initially denying the incident, Washington later apologized and sought help. Rhimes admitted to The Hollywood Reporter that the situation still affects the cast.
Washington briefly returned in 2014 before moving on to roles in The 100 and P-Valley.
Katherine Heigl’s Departure & Career After Grey’s
Katherine Heigl, who played Dr. Izzie Stevens, left under controversial circumstances. She withdrew from Emmy consideration in 2008, stating that she didn’t believe her material was strong enough. By 2010, she exited the show completely.
Despite past tensions, Heigl expressed interest in returning, though Shonda Rhimes firmly rejected the idea. Since leaving, Heigl has starred in films like 27 Dresses and Firefly Lane, and had a guest arc on Suits.
Other Former Cast Members: Where Are They Now?
- T.R. Knight (George O’Malley): After his emotional exit in Season 5, Knight appeared in The Good Wife, Genius, and The Flight Attendant. He returned briefly to Grey’s Anatomy during Meredith’s COVID-19 coma in Season 17.
- Brooke Smith (Dr. Erica Hahn): After her abrupt exit in Season 5, Smith starred in Bates Motel, Supergirl, The Good Doctor, and The Good Fight.
- Edward Herrmann (Intern Norman): The legendary actor, known for Gilmore Girls, appeared in The Good Wife before his passing in 2014.
- Brandon Scott (Intern Ryan): He has since starred in Dead to Me, 13 Reasons Why, and This Is Us.
- Molly Kidder (Intern Megan): After a dramatic intern love triangle in Season 6, Kidder moved on to independent films and a guest appearance on Ghosts in 2025.
Looking Ahead
As Grey’s Anatomy continues its historic run, its former stars have taken diverse career paths. While some have remained in Hollywood, others have moved on to different opportunities. The drama behind the scenes has often rivaled the storylines on-screen, proving why Grey’s Anatomy remains one of the most talked-about shows in television history.
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