Kay D. Rhodes
First, Grey’s Anatomy lost its lead.
Now he’s lost his leaduh.
On Wednesday afternoon, Krista Vernoff announced that she was stepping down as executive producer and showrunner of Grey’s Anatomy, effective this spring when season 19 wraps up.
She has held this position since 2017.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be entrusted with the management of Grey’s Anatomy for the past six years and Station 19 for the past four,” Vernoff said in a statement at the deadline.
“The passion of dedicated fandoms and the impact these shows have on hearts and minds cannot be overstated.
“The amount of talent in these two extraordinary casts and these two brilliant writers’ rooms is beyond compare – and these teams work magically week in and week out.”
Vernoff concludes, referring to the show’s well-known creator:
“I will be forever grateful to Shonda Rhimes for her trust and to 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 direct it.
“So I’m not saying goodbye because that would be too bittersweet. I say ‘See you in seven seasons.’ »
Vernoff started out as a writer on Grey’s Anatomy for its first seven seasons before leaving and returning on season 14 as showrunner.
She’s served in that capacity on Station 19 — a Grey’s Anatomy spin-off — since the drama’s third season.
News of Vernoff’s next release comes a few months later Ellen Pompeo also confirmed she leave as main character Meredith Grey.
ABC hasn’t made a decision on the show’s future yet… and it still draws good ratings in its Thursday night time slot… but it’s hard not to wonder if the medical drama will definitely end in May after the departure of these two women.
“Krista Vernoff has invested her heart and soul in Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19, and her voice has been essential to the success of these beloved series,” said Craig Erwich, President, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals. .
“It takes a terrific leader to run two shows simultaneously and Krista did it effortlessly.
“Her creative force left an indelible mark and because of her, our viewers will continue to be invested in these dynamic and cherished characters for many years to come.”
Rhimes, for his part, commented on the development as follows:
“Krista’s creativity, vision and dedicated leadership have allowed ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Station 19’ to continue to thrive.
“I am extremely grateful to him for all his hard work. She will always be part of the Shondaland family.