May 20--Sara Ramirez is leaving "Grey's Anatomy."
On Thursday the actress announced on Twitter her departure from the long-running ABC medical drama.
"I'm deeply grateful the last 10 years with my family at 'Grey's Anatomy' and ABC, but for now I'm taking some welcome time off," she said, also thanking series creator Shonda Rhimes. "Shonda's been so incredible to work for, and we will definitely continue our conversations! I send my love to Ellen [Pompeo], the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!"
Joining the series in its second season, Ramirez played Dr. Callie Torres, an ambitious, bisexual surgeon. Thursday's season finale saw her character making peace with her former wife Arizona, played by Jessica Capshaw, and moving to New York.
Rhimes bid farewell to Ramirez and her character with a note on Twitter.
"Dr. Callie Torres came into our lives dancing it out in her underwear almost a decade ago, and I could not be happier or more proud of her journey," she wrote.
"Sara Ramirez's performance inspired me as well as millions of fans each week. We wish her the best on her well-deserved time off. I will miss Callie tremendously, but am excited for what the future holds for Sara. She will always have a home at Shondaland."
It's the latest high-profile departure from the series, which remains a strong ratings performer heading into its 13th season. Last year fans were stunned by the unexpected death of Derek Shepherd, the character played by original cast member Patrick Dempsey.
