'Grey's Anatomy' Original Star Justin Chambers Quits After 16 Seasons

It is heartbreaking - indeed very heartbreaking for all the avid Grey's Anatomy fans out there. The original star, Justin Chambers aka Alex Karev is all set to quit the show after being a part of a massive 16 seasons.

Chambers will depart the show after being a part of it for over 15 years.

Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Chambers' final episode has already aired — the Nov. 14 installment that saw Alex step in to help save Meredith's (Ellen Pompeo) career.

Chambers is currently one of only four original Grey's Anatomy stars to remain with the series from the pilot. His departure leaves leading lady Pompeo, James Pickens Jr. (Richard) and Chandra Wilson (Bailey). 

"There’s no good time to say goodbye to a show and character that’s defined so much of my life for the past 15 years. For some time now, however, I have hoped to diversify my acting roles and career choices. And, as I turn 50 and am blessed with my remarkable, supportive wife and five wonderful children, now is that time," Chambers said in a statement. “As I move on from Grey’s Anatomy, I want to thank the ABC family, Shonda Rhimes, original cast members Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens, and the rest of the amazing cast and crew, both past and present, and, of course, the fans for an extraordinary ride." 

Chambers becomes the latest series regular to depart Grey's, which has weathered the exits of original stars like Sandra Oh (Cristina, season 10), Patrick Dempsey (Derek, season 11), Katherine Heigl (season six), T.R. Knight (season five) and Isaiah Washington (who was notably fired in season three). 

The veteran series has always brought in new faces to help fill the void, with fan favorites like Jesse Williams (Jackson), Camilla Luddington (Jo, Chambers' onscreen wife), Kevin McKidd (Owen) and the returns of familiar faces including Kim Raver (Teddy) and Caterina Scorsone (Amelia).