“Grey’s Anatomy” actor Jesse Williams is exiting the ABC series after 12 seasons.
Williams’ last episode as Dr. Jackson Avery on the clinical show will air on May 20.
Williams’ takeoff from Gray Sloan Memorial was revealed on Thursday night’s episode titled “Look Up Child.” After rejoining with his estranged father Robert (Eric Roberts) and ex-wife, April Kepner (Sarah Drew), he went to the realization he needs to take over over his family’s foundation in Boston, Mass.
Showrunner Krista Vernoff affirmed Williams’ exit in an statement with Deadline.
“Jesse Williams is an extraordinary artist and activist. Watching his evolution these past 11 years both on screen and off has been a true gift,” Vernoff said. “Jesse brings so much heart, such depth of care, and so much intelligence to his work. We will miss Jesse terribly and we will miss Jackson Avery — played to perfection for so many years.”
Also, Williams said in an statement that he “will be forever grateful” for his experience on the series.
“I will forever be grateful for the boundless opportunities provided me by Shonda, the network, studio, fellow castmates, our incredible crew, Krista, Ellen and Debbie,” Williams shared with the outlet. “As an actor, director and person, I have been obscenely lucky to learn so much from so many and I thank our beautiful fans, who breathe so much energy and appreciation into our shared worlds. The experience and endurance born of creating nearly 300 hours of leading global television is a gift I’ll carry always. I am immensely proud of our work, our impact and to be moving forward with so many tools, opportunities, allies and dear friends.”
Williams first joined “Grey’s Anatomy” in Season 6 as a common character. He became a full-time cast member in Season 7. Watchers watched his character get married, have a child and go through a divorce, meanwhile saving lives at Gray Sloan.
They takes note of that “Grey’s Anatomy” presently can’t seem to be renewed for its 18th season “but is expected to be.” The contract lies on the futures of stars Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens Jr., the report says.
