We’ve known for months that more budget cuts were on the horizon for Grey’s Anatomy, but the beloved ABC drama went right for the jugular on Wednesday afternoon.
Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver are both exiting the long-running series in May.
Kevin has been with Grey’s Anatomy for 18 seasons, while Raver has been no slouch, clocking in 12 seasons as a series regular.
Their departures are undoubtedly a huge blow to the series, which seems to be embracing change as it awaits word on a Season 23 renewal from ABC.
Given how long Kevin and Kim have been with the series, there’s a good chance executives felt they could save a chunk of change while recalibrating the series creatively.
Teddy and Owen have been given questionable storylines in recent years, dividing fans and critics alike.
As a one-time fan of the show who still watches here and there, it felt like the characters were stuck in this toxic cycle.
The writers could have done so much more with them, or if they didn’t want to, should have made the call to write them out sooner.
Like every series on broadcast TV, Grey’s Anatomy is feeling the pinch of declining ratings and higher production costs.
Grey’s Anatomy Is Expected to Score a Season 23 Renewal
Given its legacy, there was no reality in which the series wouldn’t snag a renewal, but reports surfaced earlier this year that budget cuts would keep the series alive.
In addition to acting on Grey’s Anatomy, Kevin also directed 48 episodes.
There’s no telling whether that will continue after Owen is written out of the show, but we do know that Kevin will direct the Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 finale.
Grey’s Anatomy has been well-known for killing off major characters throughout its run.
Still, series creator Shonda Rhimes is seemingly shutting down any speculation that Owen or Teddy will meet their maker before their turn on the series is over.
In a statement obtained by TV Insider, she declared that their characters will have “the happy ending their story deserves.”
Will Teddy and Owen ride off into the sunset? It would be a bit too Hollywood considering the hurdles their relationship has endured over the last five or so years.
But stranger things have happened, and if any show can write them out with grace, it’s Grey’s Anatomy.
Kim and Kevin Look Back on Their Impressive Grey’s Anatomy Runs
The hope is that their last episodes provide enough closure and reach a climactic conclusion.
Kevin and Kim each shared statements in the wake of news of their departures being made public.
Kevin McKidd said:
Grey’s Anatomy has been a huge chapter of my life, creatively and personally, and I’m deeply grateful for everything the show has given me over the years.
Playing Dr. Owen Hunt and directing on the show have both shaped me enormously, and I’ve had the privilege of working with an extraordinary group of people throughout that time.
I’m particularly thankful to Shonda Rhimes for creating Owen, and for the encouragement she gave me as I stepped into directing.
As that chapter comes to a close, I’m looking forward to what’s ahead — building new work, telling new stories, and taking everything I’ve learned into the next phase of my career.
It’s certainly an emotionally charged statement and one you’d expect from someone with such deep ties to the show.
It certainly is the end of a big chapter for Grey’s Anatomy and for these stars.
Kim Raver‘s statement reads as follows:
Playing Dr. Teddy Altman will always hold a dear and special place in my heart. Sixteen years ago, I had the incredible privilege of stepping into this role thanks to the vision of Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers.
Since that day, it has been a true gift to bring the iconic words of Shonda and our brilliant team of writers to life.
I am especially grateful to our current showrunner, Meg Marinis, for her leadership and heart, and I want to honor the immense talent of the showrunners who came before her, including Krista Vernoff whose guidance helped shape Teddy’s journey through the years.
I feel so fortunate to have worked under the brilliance of Debbie Allen, who not only mentored me but welcomed me into the Director’s chair.
To my amazingly talented castmates and our formidable, tireless crew: playing in this arena with you has been a joy, and I will carry this company in my heart always.
To the fans—your unwavering devotion and support are the reason this show remains such a force. Thank you for making this set my place of magic and my home.
Okay, Grey’s Anatomy Fanatics! What’s your take on these big departures?
Are you sad to see Teddy and Owen go, or are you under the belief that their storylines have reached a natural conclusion?
Similarly, do you think the series can continue to thrive while losing such popular characters?
Still here? You’re our kind of people.
Drop a word in the comments or share this with a fellow fan — it’s the best way to support indie TV coverage that actually cares about the shows.
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