Tuesday, March 17, 2015

‘Grey’s Anatomy': Derek Leaves Seattle — Is Patrick Dempsey Officially Done?

Can we pretend this isn’t happening? It’s just been confirmed that Derek will be leaving Seattle Grace Hospital– but what does that mean for Patrick Dempsey, who’s played Derek since the show began in 2005?
I guess it’s true that all good things must come to an end. While it was hinted at back in November, it is now confirmed that Dr. Derek Shepherd will say so long to Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) and everyone else in Seattle because he–and Patrick Dempsey, who plays him– are leaving Grey’s Anatomy. But could he return?


Patrick Dempsey Leaving ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ For Good?
Following the winter finale of Grey’s Anatomy, which saw the heartbreaking moment when Meredith finally pushed Derek to take the position in Washington D.C., fans were left wondering if he was really leaving Seattle Grace for good.

UPDATE: When Will Patrick Dempsey Return As Derek Sheperd?
Well, we’re sad to report that, it’s true: Derek really is heading east to D.C., which means the end of Grey’s for Derek as well as Patrick. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Grey’s creator and executive producer Shonda Rhimes said, Derek is “walking away and [Meredith has] sort of pushed him out the door. It’s like you call someone’s bluff and push them out the door.”

Could Derek Return?
Okay, so Derek is out the Seattle Grace door for now, but it’s not all bad news.

“There will be a time when you see him again, yes” Shonda said. However, because the series will remain set in Seattle and not at all in D.C., it won’t be any time soon. Shonda was sure to add, “but it’s probable that you won’t see Derek for a while.”

Well, Grey’s giveth, and Grey’s taketh away.

Grey’s Anatomy returns from its winter hiatus on Thursday, Jan. 29. on ABC to finish out its 11th (!) season.

Are you sad to see Derek/Patrick leave the show? Tell us!

– Casey Mink