Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane will leave the medical drama during the upcoming ninth season.
The show's creator, Shonda Rhimes, told TVLine: "After much consideration and conversations, he and I have decided that this is the right time for his storyline to end."
Rhimes described Dane's character, Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan, as "one of the most beloved characters on Grey's Anatomy" and said the actor "did not come to this decision lightly".
She continued: "We're a big family here at Grey's with a long history together and Eric will always remain an important part of our family. I wish him the best and I look forward to watching him as he continues to steam up the big and small screen."
Dane told TVLine: "I am extremely grateful to everyone at Grey's, ABC and Shondaland for the experience and memories I have had over the course of this run. It has been wonderful to work alongside and learn from a creative force such as Shonda Rhimes."
