Farewell to Grey Sloan: Kim Raver and Kevin McKidd Depart Grey’s Anatomy

Two longtime cast members are leaving the ABC medical drama at the end of its 22nd season.

Actors Kim Raver and Kevin McKidd will make their final appearance on Grey's Anatomy on Thursday, May 7, at 10 p.m. ET. Their episode, titled "Where the Sky Meets the Sand," will air on ABC and stream the following day on Hulu.

"The departure was a creative decision regarding their characters' storylines," and producers have left the door open for possible returns in future seasons.

Actor Departures and Tenures

Kevin McKidd joined the series in 2008 during season five. He portrayed Dr. Owen Hunt for 18 seasons. During his tenure, McKidd also directed 48 episodes, including his final episode.

Kim Raver joined in 2009 during season six, initially in a recurring capacity before becoming a series regular. She left after season eight, returned for guest appearances in season 14, and rejoined as a series regular in season 15. Raver portrayed Dr. Teddy Altman for a total of 14 seasons and directed three episodes during her time on the show.

Character Storylines and Departure

Owen Hunt and Teddy Altman met during their service in the Iraq war. Their on-screen relationship included a marriage in season 18, two children, and a divorce earlier in season 22.

In the season finale, the characters survive a bridge collapse. Following the incident, Teddy receives a job offer in Paris, and Owen agrees to relocate with her and their children.

The episode was directed by Kevin McKidd and written by showrunner Meg Marinis.

Production for season 22 has concluded; the finale is the final episode among the 18-episode season.

Statements from Production and Cast

• Kevin McKidd stated that he is grateful for his time on the show and looks forward to applying what he has learned in the next phase of his career. He thanked series creator Shonda Rhimes for creating the character Owen Hunt and for encouraging his directing.

• Kim Raver shared that playing Dr. Teddy Altman holds a special place in her heart. She thanked Rhimes, executive producer Betsy Beers, showrunner Meg Marinis, executive producing director Debbie Allen, and previous showrunners, as well as castmates, crew, and fans. Raver noted that Teddy's decision to "choose herself" was an important aspect of her character arc.

• Shonda Rhimes, series creator, stated that the characters of Owen and Teddy are receiving a "happy ending."

• Meg Marinis, showrunner, confirmed that the possibility for the actors to return in future seasons remains open.