Drama Beyond Surgery
Medical charts couldn't track the journeys these actors have taken. Grey's Anatomy launched in 2005 as a midseason replacement. Today, the original cast members have scattered across entertainment, though a few still stay put.
Isaiah Washington
When ABC's hit medical drama premiered in 2005, Isaiah Washington thrilled audiences. How? With his portrayal of the brilliant cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Preston Burke. Behind his surgical excellence lay a complicated man whose romantic entanglement with Cristina Yang became one of the show's most compelling early storylines.
The Grey’s Anatomy Co-stars That Couldn’t Stand Each Other by Facts Verse
Isaiah Washington (Cont.)
Their chemistry was undeniable, culminating in a heartbreaking wedding scene where Burke ultimately left Yang at the altar. Washington's departure from the show in 2007 followed controversy when he allegedly used a homophobic slur during an on-set argument with Patrick Dempsey, referencing T R Knight.
Top 10 Memorable Grey’s Anatomy Weddings by MsMojo
Isaiah Washington (Cont.)
The fallout was significant, with Shonda Rhimes telling The Hollywood Reporter that cast members remain "traumatized" by the incident. After leaving Grey's, Washington continued his acting career with notable roles on The 100 and P-Valley and a short return to the series in 2014.
The 100 Season 2 Ending (Jaha and Murphy) by RandomVids
Katherine Heigl
Dr Izzie Stevens really took off thanks to Katherine Heigl's amazing performance. Her story, going from a trailer park to becoming a surgical resident at Seattle Grace, struck a chord with fans, especially her emotional romance with patient Denny Duquette, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan.
Izzie & Denny • best moments by ANY
Katherine Heigl (Cont.)
Heigl's tenure ended amid controversy after she withdrew from Emmy consideration in 2008, stating she didn't feel given material worthy of nomination. Her relationship with Rhimes deteriorated, leading to her departure in 2010. Since then, Heigl has starred in films like Life As We Know It.
Izzie & Denny • best moments by ANY
Chyler Leigh
This individual first appeared in the last two episodes of Season 3 (2007) as Meredith Grey's half-sister, Lexie Grey, and was promoted to series regular from Seasons 4 through 8. She was introduced as a surgical intern at Seattle Grace Hospital, characterized as a “dork”.
the life of lexie grey | [s4-s17] by scrappymitchell
Chyler Leigh (Cont.)
She explained her 2012 departure to TVLine, saying she decided with Rhimes to give Lexie appropriate closure. Leigh returned briefly during season 17's COVID dreamscape sequences. After Grey's, she found success playing Alex Danvers on Supergirl and is currently an actor in The Way Home.
Kevin McKidd
Dr Owen Hunt, an Iraq War vet with some serious emotional baggage, showed up in season 5. He brought along his trauma expertise and dealt with PTSD-related nightmares that almost choked Cristina while she was sleeping. Owen's love life was pretty complicated, too.
Top 5 Grey's Anatomy Love Triangles | CinemaClips by Cinemaclipsai
Kevin McKidd (Cont.)
Beyond performing, he's directed over 30 Grey's Anatomy episodes, revealing his talents behind the camera. While maintaining his character through the show’s current 21st season, McKidd has voiced characters in Brave and Star Wars Rebels. As of 2024, he filmed The Primrose Railway Children.
Patrick Dempsey
That nickname "McDreamy" says everything about Dr Derek Shepherd's impact on Grey's Anatomy. Dempsey's charismatic neurosurgeon charmed viewers from the series premiere, when his one-night stand with Grey launched television's most iconic medical romance. Not forgetting the line “It's a beautiful day to save lives”.
Top 10 Meredith & Derek Moments on Grey's Anatomy by MsMojo
Patrick Dempsey (Cont.)
Derek's shocking death in season 11 left fans reeling. He told PEOPLE after leaving, “I'm very grateful for Grey's Anatomy. It's given me the opportunity to do everything. But at the same time, there was a cost”. Post this, he’s been a part of Bridget Jones's Baby and Ferrari.
Derek's Massive Car Crash on 'Grey's Anatomy' Will Give You Chills! by Entertainment Tonight
Justin Chambers
The journey from Calvin Klein model to beloved TV doctor wasn't exactly what Justin Chambers expected when he first stepped into Dr Alex Karev's scrubs. Initially presented as the hospital's resident fool, Chambers turned Karev across 16 seasons into one of the series’ most difficult characters.
9 Times Alex Karev Proved He’s the Real Hero of Grey’s Anatomy by Cinemaclipsai
Justin Chambers (Cont.)
After his abrupt departure in 2020, Chambers revealed to Deadline that as he turns 50 and is blessed with a supportive wife and five wonderful children, it was finally time to move on. He recently appeared as Marlon Brando in Paramount+'s The Offer.
9 Times Alex Karev Proved He’s the Real Hero of Grey’s Anatomy by Cinemaclipsai
James Pickens Jr
Prior to becoming the moral compass of Seattle Grace, Pickens Jr had already established himself with roles on The X-Files. His portrayal of Dr Richard Webber, former alcoholic, brilliant surgeon, and complicated love interest of Ellis Grey, immediately anchored the medical drama with gravitas and humanity.
Grey's Anatomy's Richard Webber Shocks Fans with Season 20 Finale Revelation by HEAVY BREAKDOWNS
James Pickens Jr (Cont.)
Through 20 years of hospital crises, name changes, and character departures, Pickens remains one of only three original cast members regularly appearing. While continuing his Grey's commitment, Pickens has been on other shows, including Yellowstone and The Conners, balancing his acting career with family life.
7 Heartwarming Richard & Meredith Moments on Grey's Anatomy by Cinemaclipsai
Sandra Oh
Fans believe that the intensity Sandra Oh brought to Dr Cristina Yang made "dark and twisty" more than just a catchphrase. It became an entire personality type for a generation of viewers. Her fearlessly ambitious character refused to compromise her surgical dreams for anyone.
Grey's Anatomy 6x11 - Cristina gets a solo Cardio [HD] by RogueGreys
Sandra Oh (Cont.)
Following ten seasons, Oh departed in 2014 to pursue other projects. Her career took off with roles in shows and movies like Killing Eve, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Turning Red. Back in June 2024, she even talked about Cristina’s ongoing influence.
Killing Eve Season 3 Trailer (HD) Sandra Oh, Jodie Comer series by TV Promos
Jessica Capshaw
Capshaw delivered an enticing, cheerful energy that immediately won over fans and Dr Callie Torres when Arizona Robbins rollerbladed into Grey Sloan Memorial in season 5. Her character progressed from a vivacious pediatric surgeon to a plane crash survivor who lost her leg.
Jessica Capshaw (Cont.)
This actor’s original three-episode arc expanded to become a 10-season run before the problematic 2018 departure, alongside Sarah Drew. However, in exciting news for fans, Capshaw returned to Grey's Anatomy in its 20th season in 2024. She reprised her role as Dr Arizona Robbins.
Arizona Robbins 14x23 Part 1 by CalzonaMD
Sara Ramirez
If you remember, this Tony Award-winning performer joined the series in season 2 as orthopedic surgeon Dr Callie Torres. He started off by fixing George O'Malley's dislocated shoulder before eventually becoming his wife. After some time, Ramirez approached showrunner Shonda Rhimes about making Callie bisexual.
6 Times Callie Torres Redefined Surgery on Grey’s Anatomy by Cinemaclipsai
Sara Ramirez (Cont.)
Ramirez told PEOPLE in 2016 after their leave that, “Being part of the Shondaland family was one of the greatest honors of my life”. Their career includes roles on Madam Secretary. He is now an active advocate for LGBTQ rights, working for True Colors United.
Sara Ramírez Will Not Return for 'And Just Like That' Season 3 | THR News by The Hollywood Reporter
T R Knight
Here comes the heart and humanity of Seattle Grace Hospital. Dr. George O'Malley, the sweet, sometimes fumbling intern, was dubbed "007" after his first disastrous surgery. Knight's Emmy-nominated acting depicted George's growth. He became a capable doctor who threw himself in front of a bus to save a stranger.
Grey’s Anatomy: Watch GEORGE Return and Reunite With Meredith! by Entertainment Tonight
T R Knight (Cont.)
Knight's exit after five seasons stemmed from behind-the-scenes tensions, including the Isaiah Washington issue. After a decade away from Broadway, he made a notable comeback in 2024–2025 starring as Victor Creel in Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a prequel play to the hit Netflix series.
Grey’s Anatomy’s George Isn’t The “Nice Guy” You Remember by The Take
Ellen Pompeo
The voice that has narrated over 400 episodes? Yes, that’s Ellen Pompeo. She is the one who turned Meredith Grey from the vulnerable intern of the pilot to the formidable, Harper Avery-winning surgeon. Her 19-season run as a series regular set records for longevity in a primetime drama.
This Is How Meredith’s Behaviour Evolve In Grey's Anatomy Season 20 by Screen Pilot
Ellen Pompeo (Cont.)
Pompeo was bold enough to talk about her salary openly, which landed her the title of TV's highest-paid actress at $20 million a year. Although she cut back on her screen time in season 19, she still does the narration and pops up here and there.
This Is How Meredith’s Behaviour Evolve In Grey's Anatomy Season 20 by Screen Pilot
Ellen Pompeo (Cont.)
In a March 2025 Call Her Daddy interview, she revealed her decision to step back: “It was to the point where I really just felt like an animal at the zoo”. While keeping her connection to the show, Pompeo recently starred in Good American Family.
Ellen Pompeo: Pick Me, Choose Me, Pay Me More (Full Episode) by Call Her Daddy
Eric Dane
The moment Dr Mark Sloan stepped onto the screen in season 2, his smoldering presence earned him the nickname "McSteamy". He was initially introduced as the man who destroyed Derek and Addison's marriage. Their tragic ending in the season 8 plane crash devastated audiences.
2x18 Meet Mark...a by Norah Sams
Eric Dane (Cont.)
Dane shared with Entertainment Weekly that he left in 2012 because he wanted to explore new things. On leaving the show, he starred for five seasons on TNT's The Last Ship before finding new critical acclaim as troubled father Cal Jacobs on HBO's Euphoria.
The Last Ship: Series Premiere | TNT by TNT
Kim Raver
We all agree that Kim Raver's remarkable ability to handle emotional depth is reflected in the richness of Dr Teddy Altman's character. Teddy made her debut in season 6 as Owen Hunt's military coworker, bringing with her unresolved sentiments while serving as Cristina Yang's mentor.
Grey's Anatomy 20x04: Teddy's Justifications for Attempting to Go Back to the OR by HEAVY BREAKDOWNS
Kim Raver (Cont.)
In the first three seasons of the show, she had a heartwarming "marriage of convenience" to patient Henry Burton, which turned into true love before tragically ending with his passing. Raver first made a comeback as a recurrent figure in season 14 after departing in 2012.
teddy and henry | just a good story by mccdreamys
Kim Raver (Cont.)
She was promoted back to series regular by Season 15. Since then, the actor has continued as a key cast member. Beyond acting, Raver has also directed multiple episodes of the series, including in recent seasons such as Season 19.
teddy and henry | just a good story by mccdreamys
Chandra Wilson
Bailey's first nickname—"The Nazi"—reflected the fear she instilled in her interns. However, Chandra Wilson's nuanced portrayal revealed the caring heart beneath the tough exterior. She is said to be one of the only female original cast members to appear in all 21 seasons.
Bailey Talks to Schmitt About His Attitude Toward the Interns - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Chandra Wilson (Cont.)
It's true that the show has remained Wilson's primary focus for almost two decades. After all, she has directed over 20 episodes of the series and made guest appearances on shows like General Hospital. Her directing work has earned her recognition, including an NAACP Image Award.
Bailey Talks to Schmitt About His Attitude Toward the Interns - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Martin Henderson
The void left by McDreamy needed filling, and Martin Henderson stepped in as cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Nathan Riggs in season 12. His character's backstory involved a complicated history with Owen Hunt and the presumed demise of Owen's sister Megan during their military service in Iraq.
Meredith Grey Kisses Owen Riggs - Grey's Anatomy 12x23 by ABC
Martin Henderson (Cont.)
Henderson's journey concluded with a rare happy ending when Megan was discovered alive after years in captivity. So, after saying goodbye in season 14, Henderson found success on Netflix's romantic drama Virgin River. He played bar owner and former Marine Jack Sheridan until 2024.
Nathan Won't Give Up on Meredith Sneak Peek - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Kelly McCreary
When McCreary joined the cast as Dr Maggie Pierce, the biological daughter of Webber and Grey, the half-sister plotline was reinstated on Grey's Anatomy. McCreary's character, who made her debut as a guest star in the season 10 finale, carried prodigious credentials as a cardiothoracic chief.
Maggie Tells Her Uncle That She Lost Her Cousin in Surgery - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Kelly McCreary (Cont.)
Her acting in episodes dealing with her mother's cancer diagnosis showcased McCreary's emotional range. Outside of the series, McCreary has voiced Dot on Netflix's animated series Harvey Girls Forever! In 2023, she left the show as a regular following the 14th episode of Season 19.
Sneak Peek: Maggie Is Back - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Jesse Williams
Joining in season 6 as Dr Jackson Avery, grandson of the legendary Harper Avery, Williams brought depth to a character initially defined by his privilege and good looks. His compelling relationship with April Kepner became one of the show's most beloved couples.
Farewell to Jackson - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Jesse Williams (Cont.)
After 12 seasons, Williams departed in 2021 to pursue other opportunities. His Broadway debut in the revival of Take Me Out garnered attention when unauthorized footage from his performance leaked online. He returned briefly in 2022, giving Jackson and April fans renewed hope for their favorite couple.
Camilla Luddington
Dr Jo Wilson, a surgical intern, came in season 9 with a horrific history of homelessness and domestic abuse. Luddington's portrayal of Jo's confrontation with her violent ex-husband and her ensuing mental health issues was praised by critics for its emotional depth and sensitivity.
Flashback: Jo Has a Breakthrough in Therapy - Grey's Anatomy by ABC
Camilla Luddington (Cont.)
Apart from her on-screen presence, Luddington is known to gaming fans as the voice and motion capture performer for Lara Croft. When asked about maintaining interest in her role, Luddington told Entertainment Weekly, “It isn't about keeping it interesting and new, because every single season it's really exciting”.
Tomb Raider Making-of : Episode 1 (2012) by ONE Media +
Kate Walsh
The dramatic entrance of Addison Montgomery Shepherd in the season 1 finale instantly cemented Kate Walsh as one of television's most memorable characters. Apparently, she was only supposed to appear in a few episodes, but audience response was so positive that she became a series regular.
Scary Moment Left Fans Worried That Addison Montgomery Died On The Greys Anatomy by HEAVY BREAKDOWNS
Kate Walsh (Cont.)
Post Season 3, Addison left Grey's Anatomy to star in the spin-off Private Practice (2007–2013). However, Walsh ultimately decided to retire the character after eight years, with her final regular appearance in the Private Practice series finale in 2013.
Scary Moment Left Fans Worried That Addison Montgomery Died On The Greys Anatomy by HEAVY BREAKDOWNS
Kate Walsh (Cont.)
In 2024 and early 2025, the star continued to reprise Addison Montgomery in a recurring capacity on the series, delighting fans with her return to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Anyway, she is also known for her work in The Drew Carey Show and 13 Reasons Why.
Scary Moment Left Fans Worried That Addison Montgomery Died On The Greys Anatomy by HEAVY BREAKDOWNS
